Pumpkin French Toast is a cozy breakfast treat that brings together fluffy slices of bread soaked in a creamy pumpkin-spiced batter. With warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla, it’s like autumn on a plate. The soft, tender texture of the toast pairs perfectly with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
I love making this pumpkin French toast when the mornings start to get crisp and chilly. It smells amazing as it cooks, filling the kitchen with that classic pumpkin spice aroma that makes you feel right at home. One of my favorite tips is to use thick slices of bread, like brioche or challah, so the toast stays soft and holds up well to the pumpkin batter.
Serving this with a side of fresh fruit or a simple cup of coffee makes for a relaxed weekend breakfast that everyone looks forward to. I’ve shared this recipe with friends, and it always brings smiles and happy tummies. It’s an easy way to make mornings special and brings a little pumpkin joy to the table without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin for smoothness and consistent flavor. If unavailable, try mashed sweet potato or butternut squash puree as a good substitute.
Bread: Brioche or challah are excellent for their thickness and softness. If you want a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free bread but make sure it’s sturdy enough to soak up the batter.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but half-and-half or almond milk works if you prefer a richer or dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg give that classic pumpkin flavor. If you don’t have ground ginger or cloves, you can skip them or add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice instead.
How Can I Soak the Bread Without It Getting Too Soggy?
Soaking the bread properly is key to making tender, not mushy, pumpkin French toast. Here’s how I do it:
- Use thick-cut bread like brioche or challah for sturdiness.
- Dip each slice in the pumpkin batter just long enough to absorb—around 20 seconds per side.
- Don’t let the bread sit in the mixture too long; quick dips are better to maintain texture.
- If your bread is very fresh and soft, reduce soaking time slightly.
This method helps the custard soak in without making the bread fall apart during cooking, resulting in a nice, fluffy interior and a golden crust.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – for whisking together the pumpkin batter smoothly without spills.
- Whisk – helps combine eggs, milk, and pumpkin evenly for a creamy custard.
- 12-inch nonstick skillet or griddle – cooks the French toast evenly and prevents sticking.
- Spatula – easy to flip the toast without tearing the bread.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the pumpkin and spices just right every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the batter for a rich, tangy twist that pairs nicely with pumpkin.
- Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter or sprinkle on top for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Use cinnamon swirl bread instead of plain brioche for an extra spice hit inside and out.
- Top with fresh berries or sliced bananas to add freshness and balance the warm spices.
Pumpkin French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richness)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 8 thick slices brioche or challah bread
- Butter, for cooking and serving
- Powdered sugar, for garnish
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pumpkin French toast recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a perfect breakfast option for a cozy weekend morning or a special occasion.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Pumpkin Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and blended well.
2. Heat Your Pan:
Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter, letting it melt to coat the surface but not burn.
3. Soak the Bread:
Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture. Let it soak about 20 seconds on each side, just enough to soak up some of the batter without becoming mushy.
4. Cook the Toast:
Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat if needed to keep from burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Stack the cooked pumpkin French toast on plates. Top each stack with a pat of butter, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Serve warm and enjoy with fresh fruit or your favorite breakfast beverage!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for Pumpkin French Toast?
Yes! Frozen bread works great—just thaw it at room temperature or in the fridge before using. Slightly stale bread or day-old bread is actually best because it soaks up the batter without falling apart.
Can I Make Pumpkin French Toast Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the batter and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Cook the French toast fresh in the morning for the best texture, but cooked slices can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days and reheated gently in a skillet or oven.
What If I Don’t Have Pumpkin Pie Spices?
No worries! Just use cinnamon and nutmeg, which are the main flavors. You can skip the ginger and cloves or add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice if you have it on hand for an even richer taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftover cooked French toast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat to keep them crisp and warm.
