There is something truly magical about waking up to a warm, comforting breakfast that practically makes itself while you sleep. The Crockpot Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Crunchy Oat Topping Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Bursting with juicy blueberries and topped with a satisfyingly crisp oat and pecan crumble, this casserole transforms ordinary french toast into a luscious, crowd-pleasing brunch centerpiece you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try it, your slow cooker will become your new best breakfast buddy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients is all you need to make this casserole one unforgettable morning treat. Each component plays a special role, from the soft, buttery bread soaking up the custard to the fresh burst of blueberries and the golden oat topping that adds beautiful texture and color.
- French bread (4-6 cups, torn into 1 inch pieces): Using sourdough, challah, or brioche adds richness and helps soak up the egg mixture beautifully.
- Blueberries (2 cups): Fresh or frozen, they add a juicy pop of natural sweetness and vibrant color to every bite.
- Eggs (10 large): The custard base that holds everything together with a creamy, silky texture.
- Milk (2 cups): Creates a smooth custard when mixed with eggs and adds moisture without overpowering flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): A warm, inviting aroma that deepens the flavor profile of the dish.
- Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Brings cozy spice and enhances the natural sweetness of the blueberries.
- Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle earthy note that rounds out the spices perfectly.
- Maple syrup (½ cup plus 3 tablespoons for topping): Pure maple syrup gives both sweetness and that signature brunch flavor we love.
- Butter (2 tablespoons for topping): Melts into the oats and pecans, adding richness and helping the topping crisp up beautifully.
- Rolled oats (1 cup): The base of the crunchy oat topping, providing a delightful texture contrast.
- Pecans (½ cup, chopped): Nuts add a wonderful crunch and a toasty flavor that complements the fruit and oats perfectly.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors in the topping.
How to Make Crockpot Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Crunchy Oat Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Blueberries
Start by tearing your loaf of bread into 1-inch pieces. Spreading them out on a sheet pan allows them to dry out overnight, which is key for absorbing the custard without becoming mushy. If you’re short on time, toast the bread in the oven at 250°F for about 30 minutes instead. Once prepped, spray your slow cooker insert with oil, then layer in the bread cubes and scatter the blueberries on top for that juicy surprise in every bite.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture and Soak Overnight
Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup until silky smooth. Pour this custard evenly over the bread and blueberry mixture, stirring gently to ensure everything gets coated. Cover the crockpot insert, pop it into the fridge, and let it soak up all those flavors overnight. This hands-off step is where the magic happens, making your morning effortless.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
The next day, simply put the slow cooker insert back into the base and cook on low for about 4 hours, or on high for 2 to 2 ½ hours until the center is set and the edges are golden. The slow cooker gently bakes the casserole to creamy, custardy perfection, letting the blueberries burst and the bread absorb all those rich flavors.
Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Oat Topping
While the casserole cooks, melt butter in a medium pan and stir in maple syrup and cinnamon until dissolved. Add rolled oats, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt, then cook for 5 minutes while stirring frequently. This step creates that irresistible crunchy oat topping that brings texture and nutty sweetness. Let it cool slightly before generously sprinkling it over the finished casserole right before serving.
How to Serve Crockpot Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Crunchy Oat Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh blueberries scattered on top adds bright color and fresh bursts of sweetness. Finish with a drizzle of warm maple syrup and maybe a sprig of mint for a touch of green—simple embellishments that turn a hearty dish into a feast for the eyes too.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links for a savory contrast, or a fresh fruit salad to enhance the natural sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt also pairs wonderfully, adding creaminess and a tangy balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch gathering, serve the casserole in rustic individual ramekins topped with the oat crumble. Or turn it into colorful layers in clear glass trifle bowls for a stunning presentation that layers butter-toasted bread, blueberries, custard, and crunchy topping perfectly on display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Crunchy Oat Topping Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen after resting, making it just as delicious the next morning.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions wrapped tightly to preserve freshness. For best results, portion out individual servings and freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy that crisp topping and creamy custard again.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Adding a sprinkle of extra oats or nuts before reheating can help bring back some of that original crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap blueberries for strawberries, raspberries, or even sliced peaches. Just keep in mind that juicier fruits might affect the overall texture slightly.
Do I have to let the casserole soak overnight?
While soaking overnight is ideal for maximum flavor and custard absorption, if you’re pressed for time, letting it sit for at least an hour can still work in a pinch.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute eggs with a chia or flaxseed egg alternative and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Use vegan butter for the oat topping to keep it dairy-free.
Is it possible to make this casserole on the stovetop or in the oven?
You can bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes on a greased baking dish, but the slow cooker method gives it that uniquely moist texture and hands-off convenience.
What size crockpot should I use for this recipe?
A 5 to 6-quart slow cooker works best. It gives enough space for the bread to absorb the custard without getting overcrowded, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Crunchy Oat Topping Recipe is pure breakfast bliss made incredibly easy and delicious. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weekend treat, its rich flavors and hands-off prep will win your heart and your taste buds every time. So go ahead, give it a try—you may just discover your new favorite way to start the day.
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Crockpot Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Crunchy Oat Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes (including overnight refrigeration) plus 2 hours cooking
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot French Toast Casserole is a delightful and effortless brunch recipe perfect for special occasions like Easter and Mother’s Day or a cozy Sunday morning. It allows for easy assembly the night before, combining torn French bread, juicy blueberries, and a rich custard mixture, all slow-cooked to perfection. Topped with a crunchy oat and pecan topping, it offers a comforting and flavorful dish that’s both hands-off and satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf french bread (torn into 1 inch pieces; roughly 4–6 cups; sourdough, challah, brioche all work)
- 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 10 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup maple syrup
Crunchy Oat Topping
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup pecans (chopped)
- pinch salt
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Tear the French bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them out on a sheet pan. Let the bread cubes sit overnight to become stale or toast them in an oven at 250°F (120°C) for 30 minutes to dry out.
- Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the insert of a large 5 or 6-quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Add the bread cubes evenly into the insert, then sprinkle the blueberries over the top.
- Make the custard: In a large bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Add in the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup, stirring to combine. Pour this custard mixture over the bread and blueberries in the slow cooker and gently stir to ensure all the bread pieces are coated.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the slow cooker insert with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to soak overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the custard fully.
- Cook the casserole: Remove the slow cooker insert from the fridge and place it onto the slow cooker base. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 to 2 ½ hours, until the center is fully set and cooked through.
- Prepare the crunchy oat topping: In a medium pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the maple syrup and cinnamon, cooking until fully combined and dissolved. Add the rolled oats, chopped pecans, and a pinch of salt. Cook while stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until the mixture is toasted and fragrant. Allow it to cool slightly before topping the casserole.
- Serve: Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the cooked casserole. Serve warm with additional fresh blueberries and maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- Using slightly stale or toasted bread helps the custard absorb better without the casserole becoming soggy.
- You can make this casserole up to 24 hours ahead, making it perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for different nutty flavors.
- Maple syrup is integral to the flavor but can be adjusted to taste, or substituted with honey if preferred.
- Ensure the slow cooker is large enough (5 or 6-quart) to allow even cooking and avoid overflow.
