There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a warm, sweet breakfast that’s already prepared and ready to go. That’s exactly what this Slow Cooker Strawberry French Toast Casserole delivers—a hassle-free morning with all the comfort and flavor of a classic dish. Imagine soft, custardy layers of bread soaked in a vanilla-scented egg mixture, bursting with juicy strawberries in every bite. It’s like dessert for breakfast but perfectly acceptable for any day of the week!
This recipe is one of my go-to options for holidays, brunch gatherings, or even lazy weekends when I want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s made in a slow cooker, so you can prep it the night before, let it work its magic overnight, and wake up to breakfast perfection. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating your family, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
I still remember the first time I made this dish—it was for a Mother’s Day brunch a few years ago. I was nervous because I wanted everything to be perfect but also didn’t want to spend the entire morning stressed out in the kitchen. The slow cooker saved the day! I set everything up the night before, and when everyone woke up, the smell of sweet strawberries and vanilla filled the house. It was an instant hit, and since then, this casserole has become a staple in my breakfast rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker French Toast Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Strawberry French Toast Casserole. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re new to cooking. The prep work is minimal, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you sleep or go about your morning.
Second, the flavors are out of this world. The strawberries add a natural sweetness and slight tartness that balances perfectly with the rich, custardy bread. Add a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar, and you’ve got a dish that feels decadent but is surprisingly simple.
This casserole is also wonderfully versatile. You can customize it to suit your taste—swap out strawberries for blueberries, use brioche instead of French bread, or even add a handful of chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Kids love it, adults rave about it, and it’s always one of the first dishes to disappear at any brunch spread.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
- Total Time: About 4 hours and 15 minutes
- Servings: Serves 6-8 people
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250
Ingredients of this Slow Cooker French Toast
Base
- 6 cups day-old bread or French bread, cubed (brioche or challah also works beautifully)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole milk works best, but you can use almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup strawberry preserves (for an extra burst of fruity flavor)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure your casserole comes out perfectly.
Layer the Ingredients
Take your cubed bread and diced strawberries and layer them in the slow cooker. Start with a layer of bread, then sprinkle some strawberries on top. Repeat until all the bread and strawberries are used. The alternating layers ensure you get a bit of strawberry goodness in every bite.
Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, strawberry preserves, and brown sugar. Make sure everything is well combined—the preserves should be fully incorporated into the mixture to infuse the casserole with a sweet, fruity flavor.
Combine and Refrigerate
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries in the slow cooker. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread to ensure it soaks up the liquid. Cover the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight. This step allows the bread to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a custardy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Cook the Casserole
In the morning, set your slow cooker to low heat and cook for 4 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high heat for 2 hours. As the casserole cooks, it will puff up slightly, and the edges will turn golden. Keep an eye on it toward the end of the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Serve
Once the casserole is done, scoop it out onto plates and serve it warm. Top it with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or extra fresh strawberries.
Tips for Success
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. If your bread is fresh, you can lightly toast it in the oven before using.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Letting the casserole sit overnight in the fridge is key to achieving a soft, custardy texture.
- Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking can make the casserole dry, so start checking for doneness a bit early if your slow cooker runs hot.
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries add the best flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, frozen ones can work too—just thaw and drain them before using.
- Customize the Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding a dash of cinnamon, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or a handful of chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions of this Slow Cooker French Toast
This casserole is a showstopper on its own, but it pairs beautifully with other breakfast and brunch dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside crispy turkey bacon or chicken sausages for a savory contrast. You can also pair it with a refreshing fruit salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.
For toppings, the sky’s the limit. A drizzle of maple syrup is a classic choice, but you can also try honey, whipped cream, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a sprinkle of chocolate chips or a swirl of Nutella.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is rare because this casserole is so delicious), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish also freezes well—just portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Slow Cooker French Toast Recipe Variations
This recipe is wonderfully versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
- Berry Medley: Swap out some of the strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry version.
- Chocolate Lover’s: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the bread layers for a decadent twist.
- Citrus Infusion: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the egg mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the regular milk, and use a dairy-free whipped topping.
Key Takeaway
This Slow Cooker Strawberry French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast dish that’s equal parts comforting and impressive. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, it’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. The combination of sweet strawberries, soft custard-soaked bread, and simple preparation makes it a standout dish you’ll want to make again and again.
I can’t wait to see how yours turns out! If you try this recipe, be sure to snap a photo and share it on social media—don’t forget to tag me so I can admire your delicious creation! Enjoy every bite of this warm, cozy, and irresistible breakfast casserole.
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Slow Cooker Strawberry French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: About 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy make-ahead breakfast recipe perfect for holidays, brunch, or busy mornings. Sweet strawberries, custard-soaked bread, and minimal prep make this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 6 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup strawberry preserves
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Spray your slow cooker with nonstick spray or use a liner.
- Layer bread and strawberries in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, strawberry preserves, and brown sugar.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and strawberries. Press down lightly to soak.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Serve warm with toppings.
Notes
- Use slightly stale bread for best results.
- Refrigerating overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) or 2 hours (high)
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American