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.