Introduction: Craving a Sweet, Decadent Breakfast?
Want a hassle-free, indulgent breakfast that’s perfect for lazy weekends, brunches, or special occasions? Raspberry Coconut French Toast Slow-Cooker Style is the ultimate recipe! This make-ahead dish combines fluffy French bread, creamy coconut milk, tangy raspberry jam, and rich cream cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection. Topped with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and toasted coconut, it’s a tropical, berry-filled delight. Ready to create a crowd-pleasing, comforting treat? Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Overview: Why This Recipe Is Special
Raspberry Coconut French Toast is a luxurious, flavorful dish that transforms classic French toast into a hands-off, slow-cooker masterpiece. The overnight prep makes it stand out. Here’s why it’s so special:
- Time Requirement: About 15 minutes prep, overnight refrigeration (8-12 hours), 2.75-3.25 hours cooking on Low, for a total of about 11-15.5 hours (mostly inactive).
- Difficulty Level: Easy! Simple cubing, layering, and slow-cooking steps make it ideal for beginners or busy cooks.
- Why It’s Unique: The slow cooker creates a soft, custardy texture with minimal effort, while coconut milk and raspberry jam add tropical and fruity notes. The overnight soak ensures deep flavor, and cream cheese cubes provide creamy pockets of richness. Perfect for feeding a crowd, brunch gatherings, or a special breakfast, this dish feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.
This recipe is sweet, versatile, and perfect for breakfast lovers or fans of tropical, berry-infused dishes. Let’s get cooking!
Essential Ingredients
This recipe serves 8-10 and uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a decadent dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:
- For the French Toast:
- 6 large eggs
- 1-1/2 cups refrigerated sweetened coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cubed
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
- 2/3 cup seedless raspberry jam
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- For Serving:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh raspberries
- Toasted sweetened shredded coconut
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Eggs: Bind the mixture and create a custardy texture.
- Coconut Milk: Adds a sweet, tropical flavor and creamy consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances sweetness and depth.
- French Bread: Provides a sturdy, absorbent base for soaking.
- Cream Cheese: Creates rich, creamy pockets.
- Raspberry Jam: Adds tangy, fruity sweetness.
- Shredded Coconut: Brings texture and tropical flair.
- Toppings: Whipped cream, raspberries, and toasted coconut elevate flavor and presentation.
Substitutions and Variations
- Coconut Milk: Swap with regular whole milk, almond milk, or canned coconut milk (dilute with water if too thick).
- Eggs: Use 1-1/2 cups egg substitute for a lower-cholesterol option.
- French Bread: Replace with brioche, challah, or day-old white bread.
- Cream Cheese: Use Neufchâtel cheese or mascarpone for a lighter or richer option.
- Raspberry Jam: Swap with strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berry jam.
- Shredded Coconut: Omit or use unsweetened coconut for less sweetness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure jam and coconut milk are gluten-free.
- Tropical Twist: Add 1/2 cup diced mango or pineapple with the jam layer.
- Nutty Version: Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pecans with the coconut.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Raspberry Coconut French Toast is simple, with overnight prep and a slow-cooker finish. Follow these steps for a perfect dish!
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Cube 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread into 1-inch pieces.
- Cube 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Measure 1-1/2 cups refrigerated sweetened coconut milk, 2/3 cup seedless raspberry jam, 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut.
- Set out 6 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Prepare toppings: fresh raspberries, whipped cream, and toast 1/4 cup shredded coconut (bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden).
- Grease a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker.
Tip: Use day-old bread for better absorption; cube cream cheese evenly for consistent creamy bites.
Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk 6 large eggs, 1-1/2 cups coconut milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully blended and frothy.
Tip: Whisk thoroughly to ensure eggs are well combined; use a large bowl to prevent spilling.
Step 3: Layer the Slow Cooker
- First Layer: Place half of the cubed French bread in the greased slow cooker, spreading evenly.
- Add Cream Cheese and Jam: Scatter half of the cubed cream cheese and dollop half of the raspberry jam (about 1/3 cup) over the bread. Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded coconut.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour half of the egg mixture over the layer, ensuring bread is soaked.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining bread, cream cheese, jam, coconut, and egg mixture, pressing gently to ensure bread absorbs the liquid.
Tip: Dollop jam in small spoonfuls for even distribution; press bread lightly to soak without compacting.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
- Chill: Cover the slow cooker insert (or transfer to a covered dish if needed) and refrigerate overnight, 8-12 hours, to let the bread absorb the egg mixture.
Tip: Overnight soaking enhances flavor and texture; ensure the slow cooker insert is covered tightly to prevent drying.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- Cook on Low: Place the insert in the slow cooker (if removed). Cover and cook on Low for 2.75-3.25 hours, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is set but not dry.
Tip: Check at 2.75 hours; avoid overcooking to keep the texture custardy. Don’t lift the lid early to maintain heat.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Let the French toast stand for 5-10 minutes to firm up.
- Serve Warm: Scoop or cut portions and serve warm, topped with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
- Optional: Offer extra jam or maple syrup on the side.
Tip: Use a large spoon or spatula to serve; add toppings generously for a beautiful presentation.
Assembly: Building the Perfect Raspberry Coconut French Toast
Assembling Raspberry Coconut French Toast is all about layering bread and flavors for a custardy, fruity dish. Here’s how to put it together:
- Whisk Egg Mixture: Combine eggs, coconut milk, and vanilla for a creamy base.
- Layer Ingredients: Alternate bread, cream cheese, jam, coconut, and egg mixture in the slow cooker.
- Soak Overnight: Refrigerate to meld flavors and soften bread.
- Slow Cook: Cook until set and custardy.
- Top and Serve: Add whipped cream, raspberries, and toasted coconut for a tropical finish.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve in shallow bowls or plates to highlight the colorful toppings.
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a few raspberries for a vibrant look.
- Pair with coffee, orange juice, or a mimosa for brunch.
- Use a white or pastel dish to showcase the golden toast and red berries.
Serving Suggestions
Raspberry Coconut French Toast is versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:
- Weekend Brunch: Serve with bacon, sausage, or a fruit salad for a festive spread.
- Holiday Breakfast: Offer for Christmas, Easter, or Mother’s Day with sparkling juice.
- Potluck Dessert: Serve as a sweet dish at gatherings, cut into squares.
- Cozy Morning: Pair with hot cocoa or tea for a comforting start.
- With Extras: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla yogurt.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This French toast is best fresh but can be stored or prepped ahead. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil, or microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add fresh toppings after reheating.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prep: Assemble the entire dish (up to layering) up to 24 hours ahead; refrigerate. Cook in the morning.
- Bread: Cube bread up to 1 day ahead; store in an airtight bag.
- Freezing: Freeze baked French toast (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge, reheat, and add fresh toppings.
Tip: Store toppings separately to maintain freshness; reheat gently to preserve texture.
Recipe Variations
Raspberry Coconut French Toast is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some fun twists to try:
- Blueberry Coconut: Swap raspberry jam for blueberry jam and use fresh blueberries as a topping.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure coconut milk and jam are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut whipped cream.
- Chocolate Raspberry: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the layers and drizzle with chocolate sauce.
- Almond Coconut: Replace vanilla with 1/2 teaspoon almond extract and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Spiced Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture.
- Oven Option: Bake in a greased 9×13-inch dish at 350°F for 45-50 minutes, covered for the first 30 minutes.
Tip: Keep the coconut-raspberry-cream cheese combo for the signature flavor.
Conclusion: Savor Your Raspberry Coconut French Toast!
You’ve just made Raspberry Coconut French Toast Slow-Cooker Style—a sweet, custardy, and tropical dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This make-ahead, slow-cooker recipe is easy, versatile, and so delicious it’ll become a favorite for brunches, holidays, or cozy mornings. Whether you top it with whipped cream or extra raspberries, this French toast is sure to impress. Grab a fork, dig into the fruity layers, and enjoy the island vibes. What’s your favorite French toast topping? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!
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Raspberry Coconut French Toast Slow-Cooker Style
Description
Want a hassle-free, indulgent breakfast that’s perfect for lazy weekends, brunches, or special occasions? Raspberry Coconut French Toast Slow-Cooker Style is the ultimate recipe! This make-ahead dish combines fluffy French bread, creamy coconut milk, tangy raspberry jam, and rich cream cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
- For the French Toast:
- 6 large eggs
- 1–1/2 cups refrigerated sweetened coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cubed
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed
- 2/3 cup seedless raspberry jam
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- For Serving:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh raspberries
- Toasted sweetened shredded coconut
Why These Ingredients Matter
- Eggs: Bind the mixture and create a custardy texture.
- Coconut Milk: Adds a sweet, tropical flavor and creamy consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances sweetness and depth.
- French Bread: Provides a sturdy, absorbent base for soaking.
- Cream Cheese: Creates rich, creamy pockets.
- Raspberry Jam: Adds tangy, fruity sweetness.
- Shredded Coconut: Brings texture and tropical flair.
- Toppings: Whipped cream, raspberries, and toasted coconut elevate flavor and presentation.
Substitutions and Variations
- Coconut Milk: Swap with regular whole milk, almond milk, or canned coconut milk (dilute with water if too thick).
- Eggs: Use 1-1/2 cups egg substitute for a lower-cholesterol option.
- French Bread: Replace with brioche, challah, or day-old white bread.
- Cream Cheese: Use Neufchâtel cheese or mascarpone for a lighter or richer option.
- Raspberry Jam: Swap with strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berry jam.
- Shredded Coconut: Omit or use unsweetened coconut for less sweetness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure jam and coconut milk are gluten-free.
- Tropical Twist: Add 1/2 cup diced mango or pineapple with the jam layer.
- Nutty Version: Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pecans with the coconut.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Cube 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread into 1-inch pieces.
- Cube 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Measure 1-1/2 cups refrigerated sweetened coconut milk, 2/3 cup seedless raspberry jam, 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut.
- Set out 6 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Prepare toppings: fresh raspberries, whipped cream, and toast 1/4 cup shredded coconut (bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden).
- Grease a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker.
Tip: Use day-old bread for better absorption; cube cream cheese evenly for consistent creamy bites.
Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk 6 large eggs, 1-1/2 cups coconut milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully blended and frothy.
Tip: Whisk thoroughly to ensure eggs are well combined; use a large bowl to prevent spilling.
Step 3: Layer the Slow Cooker
- First Layer: Place half of the cubed French bread in the greased slow cooker, spreading evenly.
- Add Cream Cheese and Jam: Scatter half of the cubed cream cheese and dollop half of the raspberry jam (about 1/3 cup) over the bread. Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded coconut.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour half of the egg mixture over the layer, ensuring bread is soaked.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining bread, cream cheese, jam, coconut, and egg mixture, pressing gently to ensure bread absorbs the liquid.
Tip: Dollop jam in small spoonfuls for even distribution; press bread lightly to soak without compacting.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
- Chill: Cover the slow cooker insert (or transfer to a covered dish if needed) and refrigerate overnight, 8-12 hours, to let the bread absorb the egg mixture.
Tip: Overnight soaking enhances flavor and texture; ensure the slow cooker insert is covered tightly to prevent drying.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- Cook on Low: Place the insert in the slow cooker (if removed). Cover and cook on Low for 2.75-3.25 hours, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is set but not dry.
Tip: Check at 2.75 hours; avoid overcooking to keep the texture custardy. Don’t lift the lid early to maintain heat.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Let the French toast stand for 5-10 minutes to firm up.
- Serve Warm: Scoop or cut portions and serve warm, topped with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
- Optional: Offer extra jam or maple syrup on the side.
Tip: Use a large spoon or spatula to serve; add toppings generously for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs
Q: Is Raspberry Coconut French Toast healthy?
A: Eggs and bread provide protein and carbs, but cream cheese, jam, and coconut milk add sugar and fat. Use low-fat cream cheese, reduce jam to 1/2 cup, or pair with fresh fruit for a lighter option.
Q: Can I use fresh coconut milk?
A: Yes, but refrigerated sweetened coconut milk is thicker and sweeter. If using fresh or canned, add 2 tablespoons sugar to the egg mixture.
Q: Why is my French toast soggy?
A: Too much egg mixture or undercooking can cause this. Ensure bread is day-old and cook until a knife comes out clean.
Q: Can I cook this on High?
A: High is not recommended as it may cook unevenly. Stick to Low for 2.75-3.25 hours for best texture.
Q: Can I skip the overnight soak?
A: Yes, but soak for at least 2 hours in the fridge to allow bread to absorb the mixture. Overnight is best for flavor.
Q: Can I freeze Raspberry Coconut French Toast?
A: Yes! Freeze baked French toast (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge, reheat, and add fresh toppings.