Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

If cozy autumn mornings could be captured on a plate, Pumpkin French Toast would be the dish to do it. This incredibly fluffy, warmly spiced take on classic French toast weaves fall flavors right into your breakfast routine, balancing smooth pumpkin purée and a lush custard with that gentle crunch from perfectly pan-fried bread. Whether you’re treating yourself to a weekend brunch or trying to impress someone special, this recipe brings a comforting yet exciting twist, showing off just how magical Pumpkin French Toast can be.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Pumpkin French Toast are surprisingly simple, yet each one is carefully chosen to create the ultimate taste and texture. Every item in this list works together, from creamy pumpkin purée to warm spices, making this recipe delightfully irresistible.

• Pumpkin purée: Gives the French toast its iconic autumn flavor and beautiful color—opt for pure pumpkin to keep it velvety.
• Yogurt (or eggs): Adds tang and creaminess with yogurt, or choose eggs for a more traditional custard soak.
• Unsweetened oat or almond milk (or regular milk/cream): Keeps the batter rich but not heavy—dairy or non-dairy, it’s up to you.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavors and adds a cozy, sweet aroma.
• Pumpkin pie spice: The heart of fall flavor—a mix of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Maple syrup (optional): Adds natural sweetness and a touch of earthy flavor.
• 1 loaf regular or gluten-free bread: Day-old bread works best here, soaking up the custard without getting soggy.
• Regular or vegan butter for frying: Gives each slice that golden, crispy edge everyone loves.
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves: These individual spices let you adjust the warmth and spice level just the way you like it.
• Cinnamon (for serving): A sprinkle on top makes every bite extra fragrant.
• Powdered sugar (for serving): Adds a snowy finish that’s always welcome on French toast.
• Maple syrup (for serving): The finishing drizzle that brings everything together.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Custard Mixture

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and whisking together the pumpkin purée with your yogurt or eggs, milk of choice, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and vanilla. You want a smooth, creamy mixture—this is your flavorful custard base that sets this Pumpkin French Toast apart from classic recipes. Don’t skip the vanilla or the pumpkin spice; they turn the custard into autumn in a bowl!

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Add about 1 to 2 teaspoons of butter (regular or plant-based, whichever you prefer) to a medium skillet. Set it over medium heat, and once the butter starts sizzling, use a spatula to sweep it around so the whole surface is nicely coated. This ensures every slice of Pumpkin French Toast develops that beautiful, crispy golden edge.

Step 3: Soak and Cook the Bread

Quickly dip 2 or 3 slices of your bread into the pumpkin custard—you want them generously coated but not falling apart. Immediately transfer each slice to the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bottoms are gorgeously golden and a little crisp, then flip and cook the other side the same way. The spiced scent at this point will fill your kitchen and might draw everyone to the stove!

Step 4: Repeat and Finish Cooking

Keep soaking and cooking the bread in batches, adding a little more butter as needed. Work through all 16 slices, so every piece gets a chance to soak up that delicious pumpkin custard and caramelize in the skillet. When done, place the finished French toast on a plate or a wire rack so the bottoms stay crispy.

Step 5: Serve Your Pumpkin French Toast

The moment you’ve been waiting for! Plate the warm slices, pile them high, and top with a dusting of cinnamon, a scattering of powdered sugar, or a glossy drizzle of maple syrup—or all three. Now, enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast

Garnishes

This dish shines brightest with the right finishing touches. Try a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a generous dusting of cinnamon, and a cascade of warm maple syrup. Add a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch, or even dollop a little extra yogurt or whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pumpkin French Toast pairs well with crispy bacon, veggie breakfast sausages, or a side of fresh fruit like sliced pears, apples, or berries. If you’re aiming for the ultimate brunch, add a fresh fruit salad and a mug of hot spiced chai or coffee for the full cozy experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping brunch spread, stack the French toast slices and layer them with thin apple or pear slices between each piece. Turn it into French toast “sticks” for a family-style platter or arrange slices in a fan with a dusting of powdered sugar and nuts for elegance. However you serve it, Pumpkin French Toast always brightens its surroundings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Pumpkin French Toast, let the slices cool to room temperature, then layer them between sheets of parchment in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days and stay moist and flavorful—great for quick breakfasts later on!

Freezing

Want to save Pumpkin French Toast for another weekend? Simply let cooked slices cool completely, lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze flat, then stack and store in zip-top bags. They’ll happily last for up to 2 months, ready to be revived any morning you’re craving fall flavors.

Reheating

To bring Pumpkin French Toast back to its fresh-from-the-skillet glory, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes. This method keeps the slices crisp on the outside and tender within. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but you might lose a bit of crunch.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin French Toast vegan?

Absolutely! Use non-dairy yogurt, plant-based milk, and vegan butter. The recipe includes all these options, so it’s easy to customize without missing out on flavor or texture.

What’s the best bread for Pumpkin French Toast?

Day-old, slightly stale bread like challah, brioche, or a sturdy gluten-free loaf works best. These breads soak up the custard beautifully without falling apart, giving you that perfect bite every time.

Can I prepare the custard batter ahead of time?

You sure can! Mix the custard up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a quick whisk before dunking the bread when you’re ready to cook.

Is it okay to use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin purée?

It’s better to use pure pumpkin purée for this recipe, since canned pumpkin pie filling already has sweeteners and spices added, which might throw off the balance and flavor of your Pumpkin French Toast.

Can I make this without maple syrup in the custard?

Yes! The maple syrup is optional and just adds an extra hint of sweetness. If you prefer, you can leave it out and simply top your Pumpkin French Toast slices with syrup at the table.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to bring the taste of autumn mornings into your kitchen, Pumpkin French Toast is a must-try. It’s cozy, festive, and surprisingly easy, whether you’re feeding a brunch crowd or just treating yourself. Don’t wait for fall—this recipe is ready to make breakfast special any day of the year!

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