Video: How To Make French Toast In The Slow Cooker

If there's one thing slow cookers do best, it's big-batch cooking. Need chili for a crowd? Or a bunch of cinnamon rolls? Here, we simplify the act of flipping multiple servings of French toast by throwing a brunch-party amount into the slow cooker.

Just because we're using the slow cooker doesn't mean it can't be fancy. We cut thick slices of soft, elegant brioche and shingled them in the slow cooker for an impressive presentation. After smothering them with a custard laced with orange zest, brown sugar and nutmeg, we let them soak for a few hours and then allow the slow cooker to do its thing.

In a large bowl, whisk together 6 eggs with 1 cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of nutmeg, 3 tablespoons of dark brown sugar and 2 teaspoons of orange zest. Set aside. Cut a loaf of brioche into 8 to 10 thick slices. Grease the inside of the slow cooker and shingle the bread slices on the bottom of the pot. Pour in the egg mixture and place slow cooker insert into the fridge for a few hours or overnight. When ready, cook for 4 hours on low.

The French toast comes out of the slow cooker golden and steaming. To serve, mix 8 ounces of mascarpone cheese with ¼ cup of whipped cream, 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon for a sweetened cream to dollop on top. A sprinkle of candied pecans adds crunch, and to finish, drown in lots of maple syrup.

Get more slow cooker breakfast recipes:
- Wake Up to This Slow Cooker Overnight Casserole
- Make Room for a Giant Slow Cooker Pancake
- Slow Cooker Oatmeal with Blueberries