If you love pumpkin spice and want a cozy breakfast, pumpkin French toast is just what you need. It’s sweet, fluffy, and packed with warm fall flavors. Perfect for a weekend treat or a special brunch, this recipe is easy to make and so delicious.
Ingredients List
To make the best Pumpkin French Toast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (I prefer whole milk for a richer taste, but you can use any milk)
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 8 slices of bread (brioche or challah works best)
- Butter for cooking
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Timing
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe for the Best Pumpkin French Toast
Step 1- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
Step 2- Dip the bread: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture, making sure both sides are well-coated but not soaked through.
Step 3- Cook the French toast: Place the coated bread slices onto the heated skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 4- Serve: Serve your Pumpkin French Toast hot, topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or any of your favorite toppings.
How to Choose the Right Bread for Pumpkin French Toast
The bread you choose can make or break your French toast. For Pumpkin French Toast, I recommend using brioche or challah. These breads are soft, slightly sweet, and absorb the pumpkin batter beautifully without becoming soggy. If you prefer a heartier option, thick slices of sourdough or French bread can also work well.
The Secret to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Flavor in French Toast
The key to getting that perfect pumpkin spice flavor lies in the balance. Too much spice can overwhelm the dish, while too little can leave it tasting bland. I find that a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, along with the natural sweetness of pumpkin puree and a hint of brown sugar, creates the ideal flavor profile.
Tips for Cooking Pumpkin French Toast to Golden Perfection
1- Don’t rush the cooking: Cook the French toast over medium heat to ensure it cooks through without burning the outside.
2- Use a good non-stick skillet: This helps prevent sticking and allows you to use less butter.
3- Keep the toast warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked slices warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve.
Delicious Toppings to Elevate Your Pumpkin French Toast
While traditional maple syrup is always a winner, you can get creative with your toppings:
1- Whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon
2- Toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture
3- Caramelized apples or pears for added sweetness
4- A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence
Pumpkin French Toast Variations: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and More
1- Vegan: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use almond milk instead of dairy milk.
2- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure that all other ingredients, like the pumpkin puree and spices, are certified gluten-free.
3- Extra Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to the batter for a protein-packed breakfast.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Pumpkin French Toast
Pumpkin French Toast pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. A fresh fruit salad or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice adds a refreshing touch, balancing the rich flavors of the toast.
How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin French Toast
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the slices in a toaster or warm them in a skillet until heated through. You can also freeze cooked Pumpkin French Toast for up to 2 months; just reheat it directly from frozen in the oven or toaster.
Why Pumpkin French Toast is the Perfect Fall Breakfast
There’s something about the combination of pumpkin and spices that just screams fall. Pumpkin French Toast is warm, comforting, and full of seasonal flavors that make it the perfect dish for a chilly morning. Plus, it’s easy to make, and the smell alone is enough to get everyone out of bed.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a brief overview of the nutritional content per serving (2 slices):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
Conclusion
Pumpkin French Toast is not just a breakfast; it’s an experience. The rich, warm flavors combined with the soft, golden-brown bread make it a dish that’s perfect for any fall morning. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to celebrate the season, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home too.