Pumpkin Pie French Toast Recipe

If you’re craving autumn coziness but want something more special than the standard pancake stack, this Pumpkin Pie French Toast is about to become your new breakfast obsession! Imagine the classic custardy French toast you love, but kissed with smooth pumpkin, warm spices, and just enough sweetness to make every bite taste like a dessert-worthy holiday treat. Whether you’re hosting brunch, yearning for a comforting weekend breakfast, or just want to celebrate fall flavors any time of year, this recipe guarantees a plate of pure comfort with every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pumpkin Pie French Toast brings together familiar breakfast staples and a few key seasonal upgrades. Each ingredient plays a starring role, giving you rich flavor, pillowy texture, and that signature golden hue that makes this dish irresistible.

• 4 large eggs: Provide the creamy, custardy base that holds everything together and soaks right into the bread.
• 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and richness, making the French toast perfectly tender without being too heavy.
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree: The real star here! It brings that subtle pumpkin flavor and luscious texture.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Offers mellow sweetness, with caramel notes that complement the pumpkin and spices.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and adds aromatic warmth you can’t get from pumpkin spice alone.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A must for any pumpkin pie inspired recipe—fragrant and cozy.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Lends warmth and earthiness, just like grandma’s pumpkin pie.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a little zing and a hint of spice, balancing the sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Brightens and enhances all those wonderful flavors.
• 8 slices of bread (thick-cut, like brioche or challah): Soaks up the pumpkin custard beautifully and yields irresistibly fluffy slices.
• Butter or oil for cooking: Essential for that golden, crispy exterior on every piece of toast.
• Powdered sugar (optional): Sprinkled on top, it’s a delicate, sweet finishing touch.
• Maple syrup (for serving): No French toast experience is complete without it!
• Whipped cream (optional): For those who want an extra dose of indulgence—highly recommended.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until everything is smooth and combined. This step is where you set the stage for that unmistakable pumpkin pie magic—make sure you get out any little lumps of pumpkin or spice so your French toast turns out creamy and uniform.

Step 2: Dip the Bread

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a pat of butter or a swirl of oil to coat the surface. Dip each slice of thick-cut bread into your pumpkin custard, letting it soak for a few seconds on both sides. Be generous, but don’t let the bread turn soggy; allow the excess mixture to drip off before it hits the skillet, so you get crisp edges and a soft, custardy interior.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Place each custard-soaked slice on your preheated skillet. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, adjusting the heat as needed so you get golden, slightly crisp exteriors without burning. The aroma of pumpkin and spices as these slices brown will tempt everyone to gather in the kitchen!

Step 4: Serve

Transfer your golden Pumpkin Pie French Toast to a plate and serve while still warm. Dust with powdered sugar if you like, then drizzle generously with maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream. Every bite brings together comfort, nostalgia, and a pop of autumn flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie French Toast

Garnishes

This is your chance to turn delicious breakfast into a true showstopper! Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a snow-like effect, add a thwack of whipped cream for extra creaminess, and finish with a drizzle of maple syrup. If you’re feeling fancy, top with toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair.

Side Dishes

Pairing this Pumpkin Pie French Toast with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage balances the sweetness with a little savory crunch. Fresh fruit like orange slices, berries, or even sautéed apples brightens up the plate and keeps things feeling light. And don’t forget a big mug of coffee or chai!

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the slices in a neat stack and alternate toppings between layers (think syrup, cream, syrup, pecans). For a festive brunch board, cut the French toast into halves or triangles, serve with small bowls of toppings, and let everyone build their own creation. You could even use cookie cutters for fun autumn shapes—kids will love it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pumpkin Pie French Toast will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Let the slices cool completely before storing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Pumpkin Pie French Toast! Lay slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to two months—just separate slices with parchment if you’re stacking them.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the toast in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through and a bit crispy. In a pinch, you can microwave them, though the texture will be softer. Add fresh garnish and a drizzle of syrup to revive that just-made magic.

FAQs

Can I use non-dairy milk in Pumpkin Pie French Toast?

Absolutely! Almond, oat, or soy milk all work wonderfully in place of dairy. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety to control the sweetness of your custard mixture.

What’s the best bread for this recipe?

Thick-cut options like brioche or challah are perfect because they soak up the pumpkin mixture and hold their shape while cooking. If you prefer, sturdy white or Texas toast style bread will work in a pinch.

Can I make Pumpkin Pie French Toast ahead of time for brunch guests?

Yes! You can soak and cook the slices in advance, then reheat on a baking sheet in the oven right before serving. This keeps the French toast warm and slightly crisp for a crowd.

How can I make this recipe gluten free?

Simply substitute your favorite gluten free bread. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten free, so you don’t miss out on any autumn delight!

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Homemade pumpkin puree works beautifully! Just make sure it’s thick and well-drained to avoid making your custard mixture too runny.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to treat yourself to something truly special, don’t wait for the leaves to turn—give this Pumpkin Pie French Toast a try! It’s easy to make, full of comfort, and such a fun twist on a breakfast classic. Your family and friends will be back for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

Print