If you’re looking to transform your morning into a cozy fall celebration, this Pumpkin French Toast Recipe is your golden ticket. Imagine thick slices of brioche soaked in a pumpkin-spiced custard, seared until crisp on the edges and custardy inside, then showered with maple syrup and powdered sugar. It’s an autumn breakfast dream that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to win hearts around your table. Whether you’re serving brunch to friends or just want a special treat for yourself, this Pumpkin French Toast Recipe is pure comfort on a plate.

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pumpkin French Toast Recipe lies in its handful of pantry staples that each play a starring role. Every ingredient adds something essential—richness, spice, or structure—to deliver that perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Eggs: The backbone of the custard, making each slice creamy and custardy.
Whole milk: Adds richness and helps the custard soak evenly into the bread.
Canned pumpkin puree: The secret to that unmistakable autumnal flavor and beautiful color.
Brown sugar: Lends a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and gives a lovely aroma.
Ground cinnamon: Essential for warmth and spice—don’t hold back!
Ground nutmeg: Adds a touch of earthy, nutty flavor.
Ground ginger: For a gentle zing that brightens everything up.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies all the other flavors.
Brioche or challah bread: Thick, rich slices that soak up the custard without falling apart.
Unsalted butter: Gives each piece that irresistible, golden crust when cooked.
Maple syrup and powdered sugar: The classic finish—don’t skip them for true breakfast bliss.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Up the Pumpkin Custard

Grab your biggest mixing bowl and start by cracking in the eggs. Whisk them together with the whole milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until everything’s smooth and beautifully orange, with no streaks of egg or pumpkin left behind. This custard is where all the flavor begins!

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan

Set a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a dab of unsalted butter. Let it melt and get bubbly, but not browned. The butter will give your Pumpkin French Toast Recipe those crisp, golden edges we all crave.

Step 3: Dip the Bread

Take each thick slice of brioche or challah and gently dip it into the pumpkin custard, letting it soak just enough to absorb the mixture without getting soggy. Flip to coat both sides, then let any excess drip off—no one likes a soggy bottom!

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

Lay the soaked bread slices onto your hot, buttered skillet. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, undisturbed, until deeply golden and the custard is set. If you’re working in batches, add a bit more butter to the pan between rounds to keep that perfect crust going.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Move the finished slices onto plates or a warm platter. Now comes the fun part—drizzle generously with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, and if you’re feeling extra fancy, add whipped cream or chopped pecans. Your Pumpkin French Toast Recipe is ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

Garnishes

Put the finishing touch on your Pumpkin French Toast Recipe with a cascade of maple syrup and a light snowfall of powdered sugar. For extra flair, try a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for crunch. If you want a little extra decadence, a drizzle of caramel sauce never hurts!

Side Dishes

This French toast pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory contrast. For a lighter touch, serve with fresh fruit like berries, orange slices, or sautéed apples to bring out the autumn vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack slices high for a brunch-worthy centerpiece, or slice them into sticks for a fun, dunkable treat for kids. You can even layer slices with whipped cream and pecans in a trifle dish for a show-stopping breakfast parfait!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra slices, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick weekday breakfasts.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked and cooled Pumpkin French Toast Recipe slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag with parchment between slices. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat as needed.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or a hot skillet to restore that lovely crispness. The microwave works in a pinch, but the edges won’t be quite as crisp. Either way, your leftover Pumpkin French Toast Recipe will taste just as dreamy the next day.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Breakfast

Absolutely! While brioche and challah are especially rich and sturdy, Texas toast or thick-cut sourdough also work well. Just make sure your bread is at least a day old for best results.

Is it okay to use homemade pumpkin puree?

Definitely! Homemade pumpkin puree can add even more flavor and a rustic texture to your Pumpkin French Toast Recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid for a thicker custard.

How do I keep the French toast from getting soggy?

The trick is to use thick, slightly stale bread and not to oversoak each slice in the custard. A quick dip and letting the excess drip off before cooking will keep the texture just right.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap in your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) and use a plant-based butter. The flavors of the Pumpkin French Toast Recipe will still shine through beautifully.

What other spices could I add?

Feel free to customize! A pinch of cloves or allspice can add even more autumn warmth, or try a bit of cardamom for something unique. Just be careful not to overpower the pumpkin flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, this Pumpkin French Toast Recipe is the one to try. It’s simple, comforting, and just the thing to make any morning feel special. So gather your ingredients, invite someone you love to the table, and enjoy every spiced, syrup-drenched bite!

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

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4.7 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Pumpkin French Toast recipe is a delightful fall breakfast treat that combines the creamy sweetness of pumpkin puree with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Thick slices of brioche or challah bread are soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard and cooked to golden perfection, making it a comforting and festive dish perfect for chilly mornings.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Mixture

4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of salt

Bread and Cooking

8 slices brioche or challah bread
2 tablespoons unsalted butter for cooking

Serving

Maple syrup, for serving
Powdered sugar, for serving

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Instructions

Prepare the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the surface evenly.
Soak the bread: Dip each slice of brioche or challah bread into the pumpkin custard mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated but not oversaturated to avoid sogginess.
Cook the French toast: Arrange the soaked bread slices onto the heated skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Repeat in batches as needed, adding more butter to the skillet between batches.
Serve: Serve the pumpkin French toast warm, topped with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar. Optionally, add whipped cream or chopped pecans for extra indulgence.

Notes

Use thicker slices of bread as they absorb the custard well without falling apart.
For additional flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans on top or drizzle caramel sauce over the French toast.
Leftover French toast can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in a toaster oven for best texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American