Slow Cooker Banana Nut French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (approximately 10 cups)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• Additional walnuts and banana slices for garnish

Directions:

1. Grease the inside of a slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Place the bread cubes into the slow cooker, distributing the sliced bananas and chopped walnuts evenly over the bread.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until thoroughly combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, bananas, and walnuts in the slow cooker, ensuring all the bread is well coated.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the bread is puffed up and the eggs are set.
6. Serve the casserole warm, garnished with additional banana slices and walnuts if desired.

Variations & Tips:

For a different twist on this classic dish, consider substituting pecans or almonds for the walnuts, or adding chocolate chips for a hint of chocolate flavor. To make it dairy-free, replace the milk and cream with almond or coconut milk. Adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the egg mixture can introduce a delightful citrus note that complements the banana beautifully.