When autumn rolls in, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the warm, spiced aroma of Pumpkin French Toast wafting through the kitchen. This delightfully cozy breakfast brings together rich pumpkin puree, fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg, and thick slices of bread to create a golden, custardy treat that’s simply perfect for slow mornings or a special brunch. If you’re looking to capture all your favorite fall flavors in one dish, you’re in for a real treat—let’s dive in and see how irresistible Pumpkin French Toast becomes a new breakfast tradition!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pumpkin French Toast lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one pulls its own delicious weight, adding either richness, depth, or that classic fall aroma that makes this recipe shine.
- Eggs: The essential binding agent for our creamy custard base, giving the toast its signature fluffy interior.
- Milk: Adds moisture and a velvety texture to the pumpkin mixture—whole milk is ideal, but any milk works.
- Pumpkin puree: Brings that sweet, earthy flavor and a gorgeous golden color; make sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling!
- Brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses sweetness that complements the pumpkin and spices perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the warm flavors and brings a cozy depth to each bite.
- Ground cinnamon: The classic warming spice that just screams autumn and makes your kitchen smell incredible.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds subtle, earthy spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Ground cloves: A touch goes a long way—these give the French toast that signature spiced finish.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Thick bread slices: Brioche or Texas toast delivers the ideal pillowy texture; day-old bread soaks up the custard best.
- Butter or oil: Ensures your Pumpkin French Toast is beautifully golden and crisp on the outside.
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar: Optional, but highly recommended for that bakery-style finish and extra indulgence.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Custard Mixture
Grab a large mixing bowl and crack in the eggs. Whisk in the milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt until everything’s well combined, silky smooth, and a gorgeous pumpkin orange. This rich mixture is what soaks into your bread and sets the stage for those perfectly spiced bites.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Skillet
Set a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add just enough butter or oil to create a light coating. Preheating ensures your slices sizzle the moment they hit the pan, giving the French toast a crisp, golden exterior and a soft, warm interior.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Take each thick slice of bread and dunk it into the pumpkin custard, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Don’t rush this step—let the bread soak just enough to absorb the liquid without falling apart. Gently let the excess drip off to avoid a soggy mess in the pan.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Place the custard-soaked bread slices on your hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side. When each piece turns a deep golden brown and the edges are set, flip and repeat. If you’re making a big batch, keep the cooked slices warm in a low oven while you finish the rest.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Dish up your Pumpkin French Toast as soon as it’s cooked, while it’s still piping hot and gorgeously tender. A drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon are the chef’s kiss on an already perfect plate.
How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast
Garnishes
For a truly drool-worthy finish, pile on the toppings! A pat of butter that melts right in, a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup, and a flutter of powdered sugar make each slice irresistible. If you’re feeling festive, a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream adds both flavor and flair to your Pumpkin French Toast.
Side Dishes
This fall favorite loves a little company! Pair your Pumpkin French Toast with thick-cut smoky bacon, crisp breakfast sausages, or a bright, fresh fruit salad to balance the richness. A hot mug of spiced chai or fresh coffee rounds out a breakfast that tastes like pure comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your plating! Try stacking the slices with layers of cream cheese or mascarpone filling, or cut the toast into fingers for a sweet brunch platter. For holiday mornings, line up the slices in a casserole dish, bake briefly, and serve family-style for Pumpkin French Toast that’s as beautiful as it is tempting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra slices, let them cool to room temperature before layering between parchment and popping them in an airtight container. Store your Pumpkin French Toast in the fridge for up to 3 days and enjoy quick, cozy breakfasts all week long.
Freezing
Pumpkin French Toast freezes beautifully! Let the slices cool completely, then stack between sheets of parchment paper. Seal tight in a freezer-safe bag or container, and stash them away for up to two months. For best results, reheat straight from frozen—no thawing needed.
Reheating
To recapture that just-cooked magic, pop chilled or frozen slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F until heated through and crisp. The microwave works in a pinch, but a dry skillet gives the best texture for reheating Pumpkin French Toast—just a couple of minutes per side does the trick.
FAQs
What type Breakfast
Thick-cut brioche, challah, or Texas toast are my go-to choices! Their dense crumb soaks up the pumpkin custard without falling apart, resulting in an ultra-tender, flavorful bite. If your bread’s a day old, even better—it holds up beautifully during soaking and cooking.
Can I substitute pumpkin pie spice for the individual spices?
Absolutely! If you have pumpkin pie spice handy, use 1 1/2 teaspoons in place of the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This shortcut still delivers all the warm, fragrant spice notes you crave in a classic Pumpkin French Toast.
Is this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free friendly?
Yes! Swap out the milk for your favorite non-dairy alternative (like almond, oat, or soy milk), and use a gluten-free sandwich bread. With these easy adjustments, everyone at the table can dig in to Pumpkin French Toast bliss.
How can I prevent my French toast from being soggy?
The secret lies in using slightly stale bread and not oversoaking—let the bread absorb the custard without turning mushy. Cooking over medium heat also ensures your Pumpkin French Toast cooks through while developing a crisp, golden exterior.
Can I make the batter in advance?
Definitely. You can whisk together the pumpkin custard mixture the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir in the morning, then dip and cook your Pumpkin French Toast for the ultimate fuss-free breakfast.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm autumn hug, you just can’t beat Pumpkin French Toast. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring big smiles to the table. Set your weekend off on a delicious note—give this recipe a try, and watch it become a new favorite with every glorious bite!
Print
Pumpkin French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warm flavors of fall with this delicious Pumpkin French Toast. Made with a blend of pumpkin puree and spices, this breakfast treat is perfect for cozy mornings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
French Toast:
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- pinch of salt
- 8 slices of thick bread (such as brioche or Texas toast)
- butter or oil for cooking
Serving Suggestions:
- maple syrup
- powdered sugar
Instructions
- Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until well combined.
- Cook the French Toast: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture, coating both sides evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Repeat with remaining slices. Serve warm with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use slightly stale or day-old bread so it soaks up the custard without getting soggy.
- You can substitute the spices with 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
