Imagine waking up to a breakfast that combines the cozy warmth of French toast with the irresistible flavors of carrot cake - all made effortlessly in an Instant Pot! This revolutionary recipe transforms ordinary morning meals into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your family begging for seconds. Packed with wholesome carrots, aromatic spices, and a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, this Carrot Cake Instant Pot French Toast Casserole is about to become your new breakfast obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 cups grated carrots
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure you have a loaf of bread (gluten-free if necessary), grated carrots, eggs, milk (or a non-dairy alternative), brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Preheat your Instant Pot by selecting the 'Sauté' function. This will help warm up the pot while you prepare the mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated carrots, eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk the mixture until well combined and the eggs are fully incorporated.
- Take the loaf of bread and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Add the bread cubes to the mixing bowl with the carrot mixture. Gently fold the bread into the mixture, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the flavors and moisture.
- While the mixture is resting, prepare the Instant Pot. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the pot and place a trivet or a steamer basket inside.
- After the bread mixture has rested, transfer it into a greased baking dish that fits inside your Instant Pot. If you do not have a suitable dish, you can use a heatproof bowl or silicone mold.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent moisture from getting in while cooking.
- Carefully place the covered baking dish on the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
- Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the steam release handle is set to the 'Sealing' position. Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and set the timer for 30 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch the steam release handle to 'Venting' to release any remaining steam.
- Once all the steam has been released, open the lid and carefully remove the baking dish using oven mitts.
- Let the Carrot Cake Instant Pot French Toast Casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it warm, optionally topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings.
- Enjoy your delicious and comforting Carrot Cake Instant Pot French Toast Casserole!
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old bread for the best texture. Slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture more effectively, creating a more luxurious consistency.
- Grate Carrots Fresh: For maximum flavor and moisture, grate your carrots just before mixing. This ensures the freshest taste and prevents excess liquid.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking. For a more intense flavor, you can even add a pinch of ground ginger.
- Prevent Burning: Always use the trivet or steamer basket to keep your casserole elevated from direct heat.
- Foil is Your Friend: Tightly covering the baking dish prevents excess moisture and ensures even cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Elevate your casserole with toppings like cream cheese glaze, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Make It Dietary-Friendly: This recipe is easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by using appropriate bread and milk alternatives.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 359kcal
Carbohydrates: 64g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 145mg
