The crisp morning air is filled with the sweet scent of spices, signaling the perfect time for a cozy breakfast. This Pumpkin French Toast is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to embrace the warmth of fall. Thick slices of brioche are enveloped in a creamy pumpkin spice custard, transforming your ordinary brunch into a seasonal celebration. Quick to prepare and utterly comforting, this recipe makes it easy to gather friends and family around the table, sharing laughter and stories as you savor each bite. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, ensuring that everyone can indulge in this delightful treat. Ready to bring the essence of autumn to your breakfast table? Let’s dive into this deliciously festive dish!

Why is Pumpkin French Toast irresistible?

Cozy, Warm Flavors: The delightful blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and vanilla creates an inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen with the essence of fall.

Speedy Recipe: Whip up this treat in no time, making it perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches.

Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is not only delicious but also caters to vegetarians, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy a slice.

Perfect Texture: Each bite offers a perfect balance of crispy outside and fluffy inside, delivering a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for breakfast or brunch, this Pumpkin French Toast is sure to impress family and friends, becoming an instant favorite! For more pumpkin-inspired delights, check out my recipes for Pumpkin Cupcakes Moist and Homemade Pumpkin Coffee!

Pumpkin French Toast Ingredients

• To whip up this cozy fall breakfast delight, here’s what you’ll need!

For the Custard

Large Eggs – Provide structure and binding; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
Milk – Adds moisture and richness to the custard; use almond or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
Pumpkin Puree – Gives flavor and a beautiful autumn color; do not use pumpkin pie filling as it contains added spices and sweeteners.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with maple syrup or coconut sugar.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; optional but recommended for a richer taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides warm, spicy notes; can substitute with nutmeg or allspice.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Captures the essence of fall; create your own mix if not available.

For Cooking

Butter – Used for cooking the French toast for a rich flavor; coconut oil can substitute for dairy-free cooking.
Brioche Bread – Offers a soft and fluffy texture; other bread types can be used depending on preference.

For Serving

Maple Syrup, Butter, and Powdered Sugar – Adjust to taste for the perfect finishing touch!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin French Toast

Step 1: Preheat the Griddle
Begin by preheating your electric griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat, aiming for around 350°F. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown color and crisp texture on your Pumpkin French Toast. Allow it to get hot while you prepare your custard mixture, giving you the perfect cooking surface for your bread.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ¼ cup of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Mix until smooth and combined, creating a rich and creamy custard that will infuse your bread with delicious fall flavors as it soaks.

Step 3: Butter the Griddle
Once the griddle is heated, lightly butter the surface, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking. Use about 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter for this step. As the butter melts and begins to bubble, it will also add a wonderful flavor to your Pumpkin French Toast as they cook, helping them to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 4: Dip the Bread
Take your slices of brioche bread (about 1-inch thick) and carefully dip each slice into the pumpkin custard mixture. Ensure both sides are well-soaked, but avoid letting the bread linger too long to maintain its structure. The goal is to coat each slice thoroughly, allowing the flavors of the pumpkin and spices to permeate each bite.

Step 5: Cook the French Toast
Transfer the soaked slices onto the hot, buttery griddle. Cook each slice for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Flip them carefully and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, ensuring they are evenly cooked and crispy before removing them from the heat.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Once cooked, immediately serve your Pumpkin French Toast warm, drizzled with maple syrup or topped with additional butter and a dusting of powdered sugar. The rich flavors and cozy textures are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle, creating a comforting breakfast experience perfect for any autumn morning!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin French Toast slices are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline breakfast preparation! You can whisk together the custard mixture (eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the brioche bread the night before; just remember to keep it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply dip the bread into the prepared mixture, then cook as instructed. This time-saving approach ensures your Pumpkin French Toast remains just as delicious while allowing you to savor those cozy fall mornings with ease!

Storage Tips for Pumpkin French Toast

Room Temperature: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture; avoid leaving out for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave until heated through, ideally with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Freezer: Freeze cooked slices for up to 2 months. Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a toaster or on a griddle to restore that delightful crispy exterior of your Pumpkin French Toast.

What to Serve with Pumpkin French Toast

Transform your cozy breakfast into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings.

Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon perfectly contrasts the sweet, warm flavors of the Pumpkin French Toast, bringing balanced richness to your meal.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, cutting through the custardy sweetness and awakening your palate.
Maple Syrup Infusion: Drizzle your French toast with a splash of maple syrup infused with vanilla or cinnamon for an aromatic touch that deepens the flavor.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea echo the cinnamon and nutmeg in the toast, creating a comforting drink that enhances the cozy ambiance of your breakfast.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top is a heavenly addition, lending a creamy texture that complements every bite.
Chai-Spiced Hot Chocolate: Embrace the comforting vibes with a cup of this indulgent drink that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavors.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some nutty granola adds crunch and depth, enhancing the overall texture and bringing in earthy flavors that harmonize with the pumpkin.
Toasted Pecans: Adding toasted pecans gives a lovely crunch and nutty sweetness that echoes the fall-inspired taste of the French toast.

Elevate your breakfast experience with these delightful accompaniments, turning your Pumpkin French Toast into a celebration of autumn flavors!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin French Toast

Soak Time Matters: Allow the bread to soak in the custard for just a few seconds on each side; don’t oversaturate to avoid sogginess.
Heat Control: Cook on medium heat to prevent burning; adjust the temperature as needed for an even golden-brown finish.
Immediate Serving: Enjoy your Pumpkin French Toast right off the griddle; it’s best fresh for that crispy exterior and fluffy inside.
Choose Quality Bread: Opt for thick-cut brioche or challah for optimal texture; avoid thinner sliced breads which may become too flimsy.
Toppings Variability: Get creative with toppings! Pair with sliced fruits, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor.

Pumpkin French Toast Variations

Feel free to customize this cozy dish to match your taste and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Swap dairy milk for almond or soy milk to make it suitable for lactose intolerant friends.
Bread Options: Use challah or whole wheat bread for a different texture and flavor profile. It’s fun to experiment!
Sweetness Tweaks: Substitute light brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a unique sweetness.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the custard for an added crunch.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that elevates breakfast to dessert status. Imagine indulging in a chocolatey twist!
Spice Alternatives: Experiment with different spices by substituting pumpkin pie spice for cardamom or allspice, giving a fresh flair to the flavor.
Fruity Addition: Layer thinly sliced bananas or apples in between the bread slices before cooking for a fruity surprise in every bite.
Extra Warmth: Sprinkle in a touch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat, adding an intriguing kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness.

For more delicious pumpkin recipes, don’t miss out on my Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies or the delightful Pumpkin Snickerdoodles Fall!

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree without any added spices or sweeteners, as pumpkin pie filling is not suitable. Look for cans labeled “100% pumpkin,” or you can roast and puree your own pumpkin for the freshest flavor!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin French Toast?
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a toaster oven or microwave. For best results, consider sprinkling a little cinnamon on top before reheating to enhance the flavor.

Can I freeze Pumpkin French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay cooked slices of French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, stack them with parchment paper between slices and transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and toast or warm on a skillet.

What if my Pumpkin French Toast mixture is too runny?
If you find your custard mixture too runny, consider adding an extra egg for more binding or a bit more pumpkin puree to thicken it. Alternatively, reducing the milk slightly can also help create a thicker consistency.

Is Pumpkin French Toast suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe is versatile! If you’re preparing it for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily make substitutions—for instance, use almond milk instead of dairy milk, or flax eggs to replace regular eggs. Always ensure the bread is free from allergens like nuts if needed.

How can I make my Pumpkin French Toast extra crispy?
For an extra crispy texture, consider using thicker slices of bread, like brioche or challah, and ensure your griddle is hot before adding the soaked bread. Cooking them in butter also helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust. Plus, allow them to rest on a wire rack for a moment after cooking to prevent steaming!