French toast is a classic breakfast dish loved for its rich, custardy texture and comforting flavors. But did you know you can make it even easier by preparing Crockpot French toast? This slow cooker method ensures a hassle-free morning meal, perfect for family gatherings, brunch, or meal prep.

In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about making Crockpot French toast, from choosing the right bread to avoiding common mistakes. We’ll also share expert tips to make sure your French toast turns out perfectly fluffy, never soggy.

Why Make French Toast in a Crockpot?

Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

Cooking French toast in a Crockpot offers several advantages:

• Hands-Free Cooking – No need to stand by the stove flipping slices.
• Perfect Texture – The slow heat ensures the custard fully absorbs into the bread without drying out.
• Great for Gatherings – Serve a large batch of French toast without much effort.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep the ingredients the night before for a stress-free breakfast.

Want to learn more about slow cooking techniques? Check out Serious Eats’ guide to slow cookers for expert advice on getting the best results.

How Crockpot French Toast Differs from Traditional French Toast

While traditional French toast is pan-fried, slow cooker French toast works more like a baked French toast casserole. Instead of individual slices, the bread soaks in the custard mixture and is slowly cooked until golden and set. This method gives it a soft, pudding-like texture inside with a slightly crisp top.

Choosing the Best Bread for Crockpot French Toast

Best Types of Bread to Use

The type of bread you use makes a huge difference in texture. Some top choices include:

• Brioche – Buttery and rich, perfect for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Challah – Slightly sweet and sturdy, soaks up custard well without falling apart.
• French Bread – A heartier option for a chewy texture.
• Texas Toast – Thick and soft, ideal for soaking up lots of flavor.

For another fantastic variation, consider using Sourdough French Toast, which adds a slightly tangy flavor to the dish.

Should You Toast the Bread First?

Many people wonder, “Should I lightly toast my bread before making French toast?” The answer is yes if you’re using soft or fresh bread. Toasting helps prevent sogginess by allowing the bread to absorb the custard without becoming too mushy. If you’re using day-old or stale bread, this step is optional.

Ingredients for a Rich and Flavorful Custard

A good custard mixture is essential for the best Crockpot French toast. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Eggs – Helps create structure and richness.
• Milk & Cream – A combination of whole milk and heavy cream makes it extra creamy.
• Sugar – Brown sugar or maple syrup adds a caramel-like sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg – Classic spices for warmth and depth.

Secret Ingredient for the Best Flavor

Want your French toast to taste like it came from a restaurant? Add a splash of orange juice or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Many restaurants use this trick to balance sweetness and boost the depth of flavors.

For an in-depth look at why adding salt to desserts works, check out Bon Appétit’s guide to balancing flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crockpot French Toast

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Cube the bread – Cut into 1-inch cubes for even soaking.
2. Whisk the custard mixture – Combine eggs, milk, sugar, and spices in a bowl.
3. Grease the Crockpot – Use butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Assembling the French Toast in the Slow Cooker

1. Layer the bread evenly in the slow cooker.
2. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure every piece is coated.
3. Press down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.

Cooking Time and Temperature

• Low setting: 6-8 hours (perfect for overnight cooking).
• High setting: 2-3 hours (great for same-day prep).
• Check doneness: The center should be set but slightly soft.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

What is the Most Common Mistake in Making French Toast?

One of the biggest mistakes is using the wrong bread. Soft, thin bread can turn soggy. Always go for thick, sturdy bread that can hold up to the custard mixture.

How to Prevent Soggy French Toast

• Don’t over-soak the bread – Let it absorb enough custard but not so much that it falls apart.
• Use stale or toasted bread – This helps the texture stay firm.
• Cook long enough – Undercooked French toast can be mushy inside.

Looking for another hearty breakfast casserole? Try this Breakfast Lasagna Recipe for a savory morning dish.

Serving and Topping Ideas

Enhance your Crockpot French toast with delicious toppings and sides to create the perfect breakfast experience.

Toppings:

• Classic: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
• Fruity: Fresh berries, banana slices, or caramelized apples.
• Crunchy: Chopped nuts like pecans or almonds.
• Indulgent: A drizzle of chocolate, caramel, or honey.

Side Pairings:

• Protein Boost: Serve with crispy bacon, sausage, or Greek yogurt.
• Refreshing Drink: Pair with fresh orange juice, coffee, or a smoothie.

This versatile dish works great for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or meal prepping for busy days!

Can You Cook Toast in a Slow Cooker?

Many people wonder if a Crockpot can be used to make toast, but the answer is no—at least not in the traditional sense. A slow cooker does not produce direct heat like a toaster or an oven broiler, so it cannot crisp bread the way a toaster does. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t make delicious bread-based dishes in your Crockpot!

What Can You Make in a Slow Cooker Instead of Toast?

While a Crockpot won’t give you crispy toast, you can make several bread-based dishes that work well with slow cooking:

• French Toast Casserole – Similar to baked French toast, this dish is made by soaking cubed bread in a rich custard and slow-cooking it until soft and golden.
• Bread Pudding – A dessert-like version of French toast, often made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices.
• Crockpot Cinnamon Rolls – Premade or homemade dough can be cooked slowly for soft, gooey cinnamon rolls.
• Slow Cooker Monkey Bread – A pull-apart bread coated in cinnamon sugar and baked to perfection.

How to Get a Toast-Like Texture in a Slow Cooker

If you really want to attempt to make toast in a slow cooker, you can try these tricks:

1. Use a rack or foil balls – Elevate the bread inside the Crockpot so air circulates around it, preventing it from getting too soft.
2. Cook on high with the lid slightly open – This allows some moisture to escape, reducing sogginess.
3. Broil it after slow cooking – Once your dish is finished, pop it under the oven broiler for a few minutes to get a crispy top.

The Best Alternative for Toast

If you want crispy toast, your best bet is to use:

• A toaster – The quickest way to get golden, crispy bread.
• An oven broiler – A great option if you’re making toast for a crowd.
• A stovetop pan – Buttered bread toasted in a skillet can be a delicious alternative.

Final Verdict

While you can’t make traditional toast in a Crockpot, you can still create delicious slow-cooked bread-based dishes. If you’re looking for that crispy texture, however, it’s best to stick with a toaster or oven broiler.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftover French Toast

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual portions and freeze for up to 2 months.

Best Ways to Reheat Without Losing Texture

• Oven: 350°F for 10 minutes.
• Toaster Oven: 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: 30-60 seconds (add a splash of milk to refresh it).

FAQs

What is the most common mistake in making French toast?

Using the wrong bread! Thin or soft bread can become too soggy. Always go for thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah.

Can you cook toast in a slow cooker?

No, a Crockpot doesn’t get hot enough to crisp toast. However, you can make French toast casserole or other baked goods in it.

What is the trick to not soggy French toast?

Use stale or lightly toasted bread, don’t over-soak, and cook thoroughly.

Why is restaurant French toast so much better?

Restaurants often use high-quality bread, a richer custard with heavy cream, and a touch of orange juice or salt for enhanced flavor.

Should I lightly toast my bread before making French toast?

Yes! Toasting helps prevent sogginess and improves texture, especially if your bread is very fresh.

Conclusion

Making Crockpot French toast is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic breakfast with minimal effort. By choosing the right bread, perfecting the custard mixture, and using the proper slow-cooking technique, you can achieve a rich, fluffy, and flavorful dish every time. While a slow cooker can’t make traditional toast, it excels at creating French toast casseroles and other bread-based dishes. Try this easy recipe for your next brunch, holiday breakfast, or meal prep idea. Enjoy a stress-free morning with the magic of slow cooking!