Crockpot Classics: Your Best Friend in the Kitchen

Why Your Slow Cooker is Your Best Friend for Desserts (Especially for the Holidays)

When we think about slow cookers, we often picture savory stews, chili, or hearty roasts. But have you ever thought about your slow cooker as the ultimate dessert maker? Especially during the holidays, when ovens are already working overtime, the slow cooker can be your best friend. With its consistent, low-and-slow heat, it creates the perfect environment for baking, warming, and gently roasting dishes. The circulating heat inside a slow cooker works in a concentric circle, warming your food evenly from all sides—perfect for everything from puddings and cakes to decadent French toast casseroles.

Today, we’re diving into a healthier version of a classic dessert—Bananas Foster French Toast. This recipe is an indulgent treat but made with more wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect guilt-free holiday dessert. The slow cooker works wonders for French toast by creating a tender, flavorful base that soaks up all the delicious flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup. It also makes dessert prep easier—just set it and forget it!

Why Slow Cookers Work for Dessert

Slow cookers are ideal for dessert because of their moist cooking environment. Unlike an oven, where dry heat can leave baked goods unevenly cooked or dried out, the moisture inside a slow cooker keeps everything soft and tender. Desserts like bread pudding, cakes, and custards are a dream in a slow cooker. The best part? You don’t have to constantly check on your food; the slow cooker will take care of it for you.

Another perk? The slow cooker frees up oven space, which is invaluable during the holidays. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or preparing a special dessert for a family dinner, you’ll appreciate having that extra space.

Now, let’s jump into the star of the show: our Bananas Foster French Toast made healthier for you and your family.

Healthy Slow Cooker Bananas Foster French Toast

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes (or challah for a richer texture)
• 7 eggs
• 2 cups milk (swap for almond or oat milk if you want a dairy-free option)
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Bananas Foster Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons butter (use coconut oil for a healthier, plant-based alternative)
• ¼ cup brown sugar (substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option)
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup (can be replaced with honey or more maple syrup)
• ¼ cup whipping cream (or substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2–3 ripe bananas, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Toast:
   Preheat your oven to 250°F. Arrange the cubed French bread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 20 minutes until slightly crispy on the outside but not browned.
2. Prepare the French Toast:
   Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or use a slow cooker liner. Place the toasted bread cubes inside.
3. Mix the Custard:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Stir gently to ensure all the bread is coated, and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Slow Cook:
   Place a cotton towel between the slow cooker and its lid to absorb condensation. Cook on high for 2 hours.
5. Prepare the Bananas Foster Sauce:
   While the French toast cooks, melt the butter or coconut oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar (or coconut sugar), pinch of salt, and corn syrup (or honey/maple syrup). Stir until the sugar is completely melted, and the mixture is smooth—about 2 to 3 minutes.
6. Bring to a Boil:
   Allow the mixture to boil, then add the whipping cream (or coconut cream). Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla. Finally, add the banana slices, letting them warm in the sauce for about a minute.
7. Finish and Serve:
   Once the French toast is fully cooked, pour the warm Bananas Foster sauce over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as a sprinkle of cinnamon, a handful of granola for added crunch, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt for a bit of tang.

Serving Suggestions:

This French toast is already bursting with flavor, but a few simple toppings can take it to the next level:

• Cinnamon and Granola: Add some extra crunch and spice with a sprinkle of cinnamon and granola.
• Greek Yogurt or Coconut Yogurt: For a lighter option, serve it with a dollop of yogurt. It balances out the sweetness of the bananas and adds a creamy texture.
• Chopped Nuts: A handful of walnuts or pecans can give the dish a rich, nutty flavor and a bit more texture.
• Fresh Fruit: Add some color and freshness by serving it with a side of berries, such as strawberries or blueberries.

Why This Recipe is Healthier

This recipe offers several healthier alternatives to the classic Bananas Foster French toast:

• Dairy-Free Options: Substituting almond or oat milk and using coconut cream instead of heavy cream gives you a dairy-free option without sacrificing the richness of the dish.
• Lower Sugar Alternatives: By swapping regular brown sugar with coconut sugar, you’re using a lower-glycemic sweetener. Coconut sugar contains inulin, which slows glucose absorption, making it a healthier alternative.
• Butter Substitute: If you want to reduce the amount of saturated fat, using coconut oil instead of butter is a great option, providing a similar richness with a lighter, plant-based fat.

Nutritional Content (Per Serving):

Based on eight servings with healthier substitutes.

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 14g (Using coconut oil and cream)
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Sugar: 19g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g (If granola or fresh fruit is added)

The Holidays are easier thanks to your slow cooker!

The Perfect Holiday Dessert

Whether you’re hosting a family brunch or looking for an easy and healthier holiday dessert, this slow cooker Bananas Foster French toast is the answer. The low-and-slow cooking method creates a tender, rich base while the warm, caramelized banana sauce brings all the comforting flavors of the holidays. Plus, with healthier options, it’s a treat you can feel good about sharing with loved ones.

So, the next time you find yourself scrambling for oven space or wanting a hands-off dessert that impresses, remember that your slow cooker has your back. And with this recipe, you’re not just saving time—you’re serving up a healthier version of a beloved classic!