Slow Cooker Crème Brûlée French Toast
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker French toast recipe, this Crème Brûlée Brioche French Toast is pure comfort in every bite. Made with soft brioche bread soaked in a rich vanilla custard, this overnight-style breakfast casserole cooks low and slow until perfectly creamy inside and golden on top.
This recipe is inspired by classic crème brûlée but simplified into a family-friendly slow cooker brunch idea perfect for holidays, weekends, or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy “dump-and-go” slow cooker recipe
- Perfect for holiday brunch, breakfast gatherings, and meal prep
- Rich, creamy texture with a caramelized crème brûlée flavor
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Great make-ahead breakfast casserole recipe
- Kid-friendly (optional alcohol-free version included)
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1 loaf brioche bread (thick-cut slices)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp Grand Marnier (optional)
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
- 2–3 tbsp granulated sugar (optional topping)
How to Make Slow Cooker Crème Brûlée French Toast
1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
Grease your slow cooker generously with butter to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
2. Arrange the Brioche
Layer thick slices of brioche in the slow cooker, slightly overlapping for even soaking.
3. Make the Custard Mixture
Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and optional spices until smooth. This rich mixture creates that classic custard-style French toast texture.
4. Soak the Bread
Pour the custard evenly over the brioche. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes so the bread fully absorbs the mixture.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours until the center is set and edges are lightly golden.
6. Optional Brûlée Topping
Sprinkle sugar on top and let it melt for a light caramelized crust just like crème brûlée French toast.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with:
- Fresh berries
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit salad
Pair with coffee, latte, or milk for a complete comfort breakfast or brunch.
Variations & Tips
- Kid-friendly version: Skip alcohol and add orange zest
- Add chocolate chips, raisins, or apples for extra flavor
- Top with pecans or almonds for crunch
- Substitute brioche with challah or French bread
- Make ahead: refrigerate overnight and cook in the morning
