Slow Cooker Crème Brûlée Brioche French Toast
Treat yourself to a decadent breakfast with this Slow Cooker Crème Brûlée Brioche French Toast! Rich, buttery brioche is soaked in a creamy vanilla custard and slow-cooked over a luscious caramel layer, creating a soft, custardy center with irresistible crème brûlée flavor. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or lazy weekend mornings.
Ingredients
For the Caramel Base
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
For the French Toast
- 1 loaf brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 5 large eggs
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- Sliced bananas
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Chopped pecans
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth and slightly bubbly. Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of a lightly greased slow cooker.
- Arrange the brioche cubes evenly over the caramel layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Slowly pour the custard mixture over the brioche, pressing the bread down gently so it absorbs the liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes if time allows, or let it sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 3–4 hours, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Turn off the slow cooker and let the French toast rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
- Spoon portions onto plates with the caramel sauce from the bottom of the slow cooker and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Tips
- Day-old brioche works best because it absorbs more custard without becoming mushy.
- Place a clean kitchen towel under the slow cooker lid to absorb excess moisture and prevent condensation from dripping onto the French toast.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with:
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage
- Hot coffee or a vanilla latte
- Fresh orange juice
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3–4 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8