Hey y'all! Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen on a crisp fall morning? This Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast is the perfect recipe for cozy weekend brunches, festive holidays, or just treating yourself to something special. With a blend of pumpkin puree, warm spices, and golden-brown bread, you get fluffy, flavorful French toast that tastes like autumn in every bite. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
- Loaded with fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and real pumpkin puree.
- Super easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy mornings.
- Delightfully crisp on the outside and custardy-soft on the inside.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings and breads.
Ingredients for Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread (day-old recommended)
- Butter or oil, for cooking
- Optional toppings: Maple syrup, whipped cream, toasted pecans, sliced bananas
Directions: How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla extract, and salt until very smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Dip the Bread Slices
Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin custard mixture, letting it soak for about 10-15 seconds per side to absorb the delicious flavors.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Repeat with remaining bread, adding more butter or oil as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast hot with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of toasted pecans. Dig in!
Notes: Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast Tips
- For best results, use day-old or slightly stale bread—it absorbs the pumpkin custard without getting soggy. (Learn more about optimal bread for French toast at Serious Eats.)
- Make it dairy-free by swapping cow's milk for almond, soy, or oat milk.
- Adjust the spice levels to taste—try adding a pinch of ground cloves for extra warmth.
Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast Variations
- Stuffed Pumpkin French Toast: Sandwich a smear of cream cheese between two slices of bread before dipping.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use your favorite gluten-free bread in place of brioche.
- Vegan Pumpkin French Toast: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and bread.
Required Equipment for Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions for Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop slices in a toaster oven or warm gently in a skillet. You can also freeze cooked French toast for up to 2 months—just layer with parchment paper and seal tightly.
Serving Recommendations: What Goes with Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
- Fresh fruit salad or berry compote
- A side of maple-glazed bacon or sausage links
- A hot mug of pumpkin spice latte or fresh brewed coffee
- For a special brunch, serve with fresh-squeezed orange juice and crispy hash browns
Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
- Let the bread soak fully, but don't let it fall apart—aim for 10-15 seconds per side. (Check out this guide to perfect French toast soaking.)
- Cook low and slow for even browning and a custardy center.
- Use a mixture of butter and oil in the pan for the crispiest, most flavorful crust.
Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast FAQs
- Can I make Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare and cook the French toast, then freeze or refrigerate and reheat when ready to serve.
- What type of bread works best for this recipe?
- Brioche and challah are amazing for their rich flavor and texture, but Texas toast or any thick-cut bread also works well.
- Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
- Yes, homemade pumpkin puree is delicious! Just make sure it's well-drained and smooth. Learn more about making homemade puree at Love & Lemons.
Quick Recipe Facts
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 16-20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick white bread or brioche
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
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1In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
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2Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
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3Dip each slice of bread in the pumpkin mixture, coating both sides evenly.
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4Place the coated bread slices onto the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
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5Serve warm with maple syrup and your favorite toppings.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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