This Pumpkin French Toast is the perfect fall breakfast! It’s sweet, creamy, and full of pumpkin spice goodness, making your mornings cozy and happy.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just dip bread in the pumpkin mixture, cook it on the skillet, and enjoy with syrup. It feels like a hug in a plate! 🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and works great! If fresh pumpkin is available, you can roast and puree it, too. Just note that it might have a slightly different texture.
Bread: Thick slices of bread are important here. Brioche, challah, or Texas toast are my favorites for their softness. However, any bread can work—just avoid super thin slices so they hold up when soaking.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer, like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the flavors balanced.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic for this recipe, but feel free to adjust based on what you like! Add more ginger or even a little cardamom for a unique twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Soak for Your Bread?
Soaking the bread properly is key for great texture. You want to let each slice soak up the pumpkin mixture but not so long that it falls apart!
- Dip a slice of bread into the mixture for about 20-30 seconds on each side.
- Ensure all surfaces are covered but lift it out gently so it doesn’t get soggy.
- Let any excess drip off before placing it on the skillet.
This careful soaking method helps your French toast become fluffy and flavorful while still holding its shape. Happy cooking!
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Custard Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Cooking and Serving:
- 8 thick slices of bread (day-old brioche, challah, or Texas toast preferred)
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This mouthwatering Pumpkin French Toast takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and yummy breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pumpkin Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, add the eggs and whisk them together. Then, pour in the milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, ground cloves (if using), and salt. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed. This will be your delicious custard base!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add a little butter or oil to coat the surface. This will help prevent sticking and give your French toast a lovely golden color.
3. Soak the Bread:
Take your thick slices of bread and dip each one into the pumpkin custard mixture. Let it soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side. Be careful not to let it get too soggy. Lift it out and let any excess batter drip off before placing it on the skillet.
4. Cook the French Toast:
Place the soaked bread slices gently in the preheated skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. You may need to adjust the heat slightly to get the perfect cooking temperature.
5. Plate and Dust:
Once the French toast is cooked, transfer it to a plate. Dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
6. Add Toppings:
Top with a generous swirl of whipped cream and drizzle some maple syrup over the top. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Pumpkin French Toast right away and enjoy every delicious bite. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall!
This recipe yields a beautifully spiced pumpkin French toast, fluffy on the inside with a lovely crisp edge and is perfect for a cozy autumn breakfast.
Can I Use Any Type of Bread for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of bread, but thicker slices like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best for a fluffy texture. Avoid very thin or crusty bread as it may not soak up the custard properly.
How Do I Store Leftover French Toast?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in a toaster or on a skillet for the best texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or another dairy-free alternative. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety for the best flavor balance.
Can I Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pumpkin custard mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before using as it may separate a bit while sitting.
