There’s just something magical about waking up to a warm, cozy breakfast that’s already done. This Slow Cooker Blueberry French Toast is like a hug in a bowl. It’s soft, sweet, and full of juicy blueberries and cinnamon goodness. The best part? You throw it together the night before, and it basically cooks itself while you sleep. Perfect for lazy weekends, holidays, or brunch with friends.
🍽 What You’ll Need
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (about 1 lb), cubed
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing slow cooker)
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar
💛 Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe has become one of my go-to favorites, especially for guests or relaxed Sunday mornings. Here’s why:
- Set-it-and-forget-it: It cooks while you sleep or relax.
- Incredible flavor: The blueberries pop with sweetness and pair perfectly with cinnamon and vanilla.
- Comfort food classic: French toast, but with a twist. And the slow cooker makes it so soft and custardy.
- Feeds a crowd: Everyone gets a warm, hearty serving with little effort.
One Christmas morning, I made this and the smell alone had everyone floating into the kitchen before I even called them. It’s one of those “everybody asks for the recipe” recipes.
🍳 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The slow cooker keeps moisture in, which helps the custard soak into the bread without drying out. Using brioche or challah gives the dish a rich, buttery base that holds its shape but still soaks up all the goodness. Eggs and dairy create that creamy, fluffy texture—like the softest bread pudding.
🕒 Servings and Time
- Servings: 6–8
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (if cooking on low)
📝 Instructions
Step 1: Grease the Slow Cooker
Rub butter all over the inside of your slow cooker insert. This helps prevent sticking and adds extra flavor.
Step 2: Add Bread and Blueberries
Layer cubed brioche and blueberries into the slow cooker. Mix them gently so the blueberries are evenly spread out.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Step 4: Pour Custard Over Bread and Blueberries
Carefully pour the custard mixture over the bread and blueberries in the slow cooker. Press down gently to help it soak.
Step 5: Cook
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until puffed and set.
Step 6: Serve
Scoop it out into bowls and top with maple syrup or powdered sugar (or both!).
👨🍳 Pro Tips
- Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better without turning to mush.
- Layer evenly: Spread the blueberries and bread evenly for best flavor in every bite.
- Don’t skip greasing: Buttering the slow cooker helps avoid stuck-on edges.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let it sit 10 minutes before serving so it firms up.
- Add nuts or lemon zest: For a flavor twist, throw in some chopped pecans or a little lemon zest.
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Butter knife or spatula for greasing
- Serving spoon
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Bread: Use French bread, sourdough, or gluten-free bread.
- Berries: Try raspberries, blackberries, or even diced apples.
- Milk: Sub almond milk or oat milk if dairy-free.
- Add-ins: Sprinkle in some chocolate chips or a handful of chopped nuts.
⏰ Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the night before: Cover and refrigerate the slow cooker insert overnight, then cook in the morning.
- Freezer option: Freeze leftover portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
🍽 Meal Plan Ideas
- Breakfast-for-dinner: Serve this with crispy bacon or turkey sausage.
- Holiday brunch: Add a fruit salad and mimosas.
- Weekend prep: Make a batch and eat leftovers all week with yogurt.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Using fresh bread: It turns too soggy.
- Overcooking: The edges will burn and dry out. Set a timer!
- Not mixing custard well: You’ll get eggy chunks. Whisk until smooth.
🍴 What to Serve With
- Crispy bacon or sausage
- Fresh fruit or fruit salad
- Greek yogurt with honey
- Coffee or hot chocolate
❓ FAQ
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! Use a 9×13 baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes.
Do I need to thaw frozen blueberries?
Nope! Just toss them in frozen.
Can I double the recipe?
Only if your slow cooker is large enough—don’t fill past ¾ full.
Can I leave it on “warm”?
Yes, for up to 1 hour. Any longer and it may dry out.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
- To reheat: Microwave in 30-second bursts or warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
🥄 Wrap-Up
There’s just something so comforting about this Slow Cooker Blueberry French Toast. It’s easy, cozy, and always a hit. I hope you give it a try and love it as much as I do. If you do make it, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out—or ask any questions you have. Happy cooking! 💙
