Slow Cooker Pear and Chocolate Brioche French Toast Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To elevate the flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract to the egg and milk mixture before pouring it over the bread. These simple additions complement the sweetness of the pears and the richness of the chocolate perfectly.

You can also lightly butter the bottom of the slow cooker insert to prevent any sticking, although the richness of the brioche usually makes this unnecessary.

If you prefer a softer, more custardy texture, you can reduce the cooking time slightly, but ensure you are aware that this leaves the eggs soft. For those who prefer a firmer, fully cooked texture, ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures the eggs are cooked through, which is recommended for safety.

Variations

• Berry and White Chocolate: Replace the pears with fresh raspberries or blueberries and swap the milk chocolate chips for high-quality white chocolate chips for a tart and sweet variation.
• Spiced Apple and Walnut: Use thinly sliced apples instead of pears and add a handful of chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch and warm, classic autumn flavor profile.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Not recommended for freezing as the texture of the bread and fruit may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheat

Reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe dish on medium power until warmed through.

Allow any leftovers to cool completely to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, you can portion the French toast and reheat it gently. Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than two hours to ensure food safety and quality.

You can assemble the base, pears, and chocolate in the slow cooker the night before. Keep the egg and milk mixture in a separate sealed container in the refrigerator.

In the morning, simply whisk the liquid once more, pour it over the assembled layers, and start the slow cooker immediately. This makes for an incredibly efficient breakfast on busy mornings.

Serving ideas

Serve the French toast warm, directly from the slow cooker, to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Use a large spoon or a spatula to carefully scoop out portions, ensuring that each serving includes a good mix of brioche, softened pears, and melted chocolate. The dish is substantial enough to be served as a standalone breakfast or brunch main course.

For a complete presentation, consider serving with a side of lightly whipped cream or a dusting of confectioners' sugar. The cool, light texture of whipped cream pairs beautifully with the warm, rich flavors of the chocolate and fruit.

Because the dish is already quite decadent, keep any additional accompaniments simple to avoid overpowering the delicate balance of the flavors.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Pear and Chocolate Brioche French Toast

Prep 10 minCook 3 hRest 5 minTotal 3 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 loaf stale brioche bread, sliced into thick pieces
• 2 large pears, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk

Instructions

1. Place the thick slices of stale brioche bread across the bottom of the slow cooker insert, ensuring the bottom is well covered.
2. Arrange the thinly sliced pears over the layer of brioche slices, followed by a generous scattering of chocolate chips over the top.
3. Whisk the eggs and milk together in a measuring cup until fully combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the brioche and fruit. Cover and cook on low until the custard is set and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure the eggs are cooked through.

Contains: gluten, eggs, milk

Food safety: The eggs in this recipe are served soft and not fully cooked through. Use pasteurised eggs for pregnant women, young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

12 g

Carbohydrates

55 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

3 g

Sugar

25 g

Sodium

350 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.