Best Pumpkin Spice French Toast Recipe to Try

Enjoy a cozy fall breakfast with this easy Pumpkin Spice French Toast recipe bursting with warm flavors and sweet cinnamon notes. This delightful twist on traditional French toast captures the essence of autumn by blending pumpkin puree, fragrant spices, and creamy custard for a comforting, flavorful morning treat. Whether you’re looking to indulge in seasonal flavors or impress family and friends with a cozy brunch, this Pumpkin Spice French Toast is sure to become a beloved favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Comfort: It perfectly embraces the flavors of fall, making your mornings feel warm and festive.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh pumpkin puree, making it easy and accessible.
• Rich Texture: The custard soaks into thick slices of bread, creating a tender yet slightly crispy bite.
• Customizable: Easily adjust spices and add toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Great for Entertaining: This recipe elevates your brunch menu and is sure to impress guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the perfect Pumpkin Spice French Toast, you’ll want a handful of simple yet impactful ingredients. Each component adds to the depth of flavor and texture, making every bite a cozy delight.

• Bread: Thick slices of brioche or challah work beautifully for absorbing the custard without falling apart.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds creamy texture and authentic pumpkin flavor essential to the fall vibe.
• Eggs: The base of the custard that binds everything together and adds richness.
• Milk or Cream: Helps create a smooth custard and tenderizes the bread.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that defines the recipe.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds fragrant depth.
• Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar: Provides natural sweetness that complements pumpkin beautifully.
• Butter: For cooking, giving the toast a golden, crispy exterior.
• Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice French Toast

Feel free to personalize this Pumpkin Spice French Toast recipe! It’s versatile and easily adapted to suit what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs without losing flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap milk and butter with almond or oat milk and coconut oil or dairy-free margarine.
• Extra Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added texture.
• Spice Twist: Experiment with adding cardamom or allspice for a unique spice profile.
• Sweet Boost: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for indulgence.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, maple syrup (or brown sugar), and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. This mixture will soak into the bread, so make sure the spices and flavors are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Dip thick slices of your chosen bread into the custard mixture, allowing each slice to soak for about 20-30 seconds per side. Ensure the bread is fully saturated but not falling apart; a good soak guarantees tender yet firm French toast.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt butter to coat the surface. Place soaked slices onto the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning.

Step 4: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Transfer cooked Pumpkin Spice French Toast to a serving plate. Top with your favorite fall-inspired garnishes, like a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice French Toast

• Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
• Don’t Skimp on Spices: The warm spices are key to capturing that classic pumpkin flavor.
• Control the Heat: Cooking over medium allows the toast to brown perfectly without burning the custard.
• Test a Slice First: Cook one piece initially to check seasoning and texture before proceeding with the batch.
• Keep Warm: Place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a low oven to stay warm while you finish cooking.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice French Toast

Garnishes

To elevate your Pumpkin Spice French Toast, consider garnishing it with powdered sugar, a drizzle of real maple syrup, fresh whipped cream, or a sprinkle of toasted pecans or cinnamon sugar. These touches enhance the aroma and complement the warm pumpkin flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your French toast with fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or berries to add brightness and balance the richness. Crispy bacon or sausage on the side also makes for an ideal savory contrast, turning your breakfast into a complete feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish stacked tall with layers of toasted bread separated by a smear of cream cheese or pumpkin butter between slices for an indulgent treat. For a fun family twist, let everyone add their own toppings at the table for a personalized breakfast experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pumpkin Spice French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the texture intact, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Freeze cooked, cooled French toast slices on a baking sheet in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents pieces from sticking together and keeps them fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F until warmed through and the edges regain their crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is convenient, just be sure to use pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.

What type of bread is best for Pumpkin Spice French Toast?

Thick-cut brioche, challah, or Texas toast are excellent choices because they absorb the custard well and have a tender crumb.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute milk with almond, oat, or soy milk and replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread without sacrificing flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and an egg substitute like flaxseed or chia seed gel. Adjusting the pumpkin spice custard may take a couple of tries for perfect texture.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Spice French Toast?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage, reheating as needed to regain crispiness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a breakfast that perfectly captures the essence of fall, don’t hesitate to try this Pumpkin Spice French Toast recipe. It’s simple, comforting, and bursting with seasonal flavors that make every bite feel like a warm, delicious hug. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a cozy morning treat that will surely become a cherished tradition.

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