Description

Enjoy a cozy fall breakfast with this easy Pumpkin Spice French Toast recipe bursting with warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Thick slices of brioche or challah soak in a creamy, spiced custard, then are cooked to golden perfection and served warm with maple syrup and fall-inspired toppings. Perfect for a comforting and festive autumn brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Mixture

4 large eggs
1 cup milk or cream
1/2 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, pure pumpkin only)
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
Pinch of salt

Bread and Cooking

6–8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread (day-old preferred)
Butter for cooking

Optional Garnishes and Variations

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup for serving
Chopped pecans or walnuts
Whipped cream
Caramel sauce

Instructions

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. Ensure the spices and flavors are evenly distributed for a flavorful soak.
Soak the Bread: Dip thick slices of your chosen bread into the custard mixture, soaking each slice for about 20-30 seconds per side. Make sure the bread is fully saturated but not falling apart to achieve tender yet firm French toast.
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 until golden brown with slightly crisp edges. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
Serve Warm and Enjoy: Transfer cooked French toast to a serving plate. Top with optional garnishes like powdered sugar, maple syrup, chopped nuts, or whipped cream. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect texture and warm flavors.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better custard absorption without mushiness.
Don’t skimp on the warm spices—they are key to the classic pumpkin flavor.
Cook over medium heat to achieve a golden crust without burning.
Test one slice first to adjust seasoning and ensure the desired texture.
Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven while finishing the batch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 slices
Calories: 320
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 165mg

Keywords: pumpkin spice french toast, fall breakfast, pumpkin puree recipe, autumn brunch, pumpkin french toast