This Pumpkin French Toast is a cozy breakfast treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin spices with fluffy bread. It’s sweet, soft, and perfect for crisp mornings!
You can top it off with maple syrup and whipped cream for a fun touch. Trust me, there’s nothing like the smell of this cooking to bring everyone to the table! 😊
I love making it on weekends when I have a little more time. It’s easy to whip up, and the whole family enjoys it. Who knew pumpkin could be a breakfast star? 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: These are essential for creating the custard-like batter that coats the bread. If you’re looking for a vegan option, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg, let it sit until thickened).
Milk: Whole milk gives richness to this dish, but feel free to use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to control the flavor!
Pumpkin puree: Canned pumpkin is super convenient, but fresh pumpkin works too! Just roast and puree it. If it’s not in season, butternut squash puree could be a nice substitute.
Bread: Thick slices of brioche or challah are my favorites for their texture. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free bread like a thick, sliced loaf or a bagel. It will still taste great!
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger create the warm flavor we love in pumpkin dishes. You can experiment with pumpkin pie spice instead, as it combines all these spices into one blend.
How Do I Make Sure My French Toast is Fluffy and Full of Flavor?
The secret here is in the soaking! You want the bread to absorb enough of the pumpkin custard without becoming too soggy.
- Whisk the custard until smooth to avoid lumps before soaking the bread.
- Soak each slice for about 20-30 seconds. If you’re using very dense bread, you might need a bit longer, but don’t overdo it to prevent it from falling apart.
- Make sure your skillet is preheated properly. A good test is to sprinkle a drop of water on it—if it sizzles, it’s ready!
Cooking on medium heat allows the center to cook well without burning the outside. Flip only once to keep the coating intact for that perfect golden-brown finish!
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
- 8 slices thick bread (such as brioche or challah)
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Fresh berries (raspberries, blackberries) for garnish
- Additional cinnamon for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pumpkin French Toast can be ready in about 15 minutes of preparation and around 10 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pumpkin Batter:
In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined and smooth. This creamy mixture is going to flavor your French toast beautifully!
2. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Set a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Preheating ensures that the French toast cooks evenly and develops that lovely golden brown color.
3. Soak the Bread:
It’s time to dip! Take each slice of thick bread and immerse it into the pumpkin custard mixture. Let it soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side. Make sure the bread absorbs just the right amount of liquid without getting too soggy.
4. Cook Until Golden Brown:
Place the soaked bread slices on the hot skillet. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes on one side until they are golden brown. Then, flip and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes. The aroma will be amazing!
5. Plate Your French Toast:
Transfer the golden, fluffy French toast to plates, stacking them as you like. Get creative with your presentation if you want!
6. Top It Off:
Now for the fun part! Top your Pumpkin French Toast with a generous dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle fresh berries around, and drizzle with warm maple syrup for that perfect finish.
7. Add Extra Spice:
For a little extra warmth and flavor, you can also sprinkle some additional cinnamon on top—a delightful touch!
8. Enjoy Immediately:
Serve your Pumpkin French Toast right away so it’s warm and delicious. Grab a fork, dig in, and enjoy a taste of fall any time of the year!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just choose an unsweetened variety to keep the flavor balanced.
What Bread Works Best for Pumpkin French Toast?
Thick slices of brioche or challah are ideal for their soft texture and ability to soak up the custard without falling apart. For gluten-free options, try a hearty gluten-free bread that can hold its shape while cooking.
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can mix the pumpkin custard ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before soaking your bread in the morning!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet or toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through.
