Pumpkin French toast is like a cozy hug on a chilly morning, packed with warm fall flavors and a soft, custardy inside. Imagine thick slices of bread soaked in a spiced pumpkin batter with cinnamon and nutmeg, then cooked to golden perfection. It’s sweet, slightly creamy, and has that gentle pumpkin twist that makes breakfast feel a little extra special.
I love making this when the leaves start to change and there’s a hint of crispness in the air. One little tip I always follow is to let the bread soak up the pumpkin mixture a bit longer than usual—it makes every bite extra tender and full of flavor. Plus, the smell while it’s cooking is enough to make anyone eager to dig in!
My favorite way to enjoy pumpkin French toast is with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, maybe even a few chopped nuts for crunch. It’s a perfect weekend treat, especially when shared with friends or family gathered around the table. This dish always brings a smile and a cozy feeling, like fall in every bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: This is the heart of the recipe, giving the French toast its moist texture and fall flavor. If you don’t have canned pumpkin, try mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash as a tasty switch.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend adds warmth. If you don’t have it, use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cloves. Freshly ground spices give the best taste.
Bread: Thick slices like brioche or Texas toast soak up the custard well without falling apart. Stale bread works great, too — it absorbs the batter better and prevents sogginess.
Milk and Eggs: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use 2% or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For eggs, some swap for flax eggs for a vegan option, but it affects texture a bit.
How Can I Get My Pumpkin French Toast Soft Inside but Crispy Outside?
Balancing soft and crispy is key here. Follow these tips:
- Use thick, sturdy bread so it soaks up the pumpkin batter but stays intact.
- Don’t soak the bread too long; just enough for it to absorb but not drip.
- Cook on medium heat—not too hot—to brown the outside slowly without burning.
- Use butter or oil with a bit of butter for flavor and browning.
- Flip carefully after 3-4 minutes; both sides should be golden brown.
Taking your time for cooking gives that perfect exterior crunch while keeping the inside soft and custardy. Enjoy the warm, comforting texture every bite brings!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick skillet or griddle – It helps cook the French toast evenly without sticking or breaking.
- Mixing bowl – For whisking together the pumpkin batter smoothly.
- Whisk or fork – To mix the eggs and pumpkin puree well for a creamy custard.
- Spatula – Makes flipping the French toast quick and easy without tearing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To keep your pumpkin spice and liquid ratios just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a splash of orange zest to the batter for a bright, citrus twist that pairs nicely with pumpkin.
- Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for some crunchy texture inside the toast.
- Swap pumpkin pie spice with pumpkin and ginger only for a simpler, warm spice note.
- Top with cream cheese spread mixed with a little honey for a rich, tangy contrast.
Pumpkin French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/3 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 slices thick bread (such as brioche or Texas toast)
- Butter or oil, for cooking
Toppings (Optional):
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious fall breakfast ready in about 25 minutes total. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pumpkin Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
2. Cook the French Toast
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Dip each bread slice into the pumpkin mixture, coating both sides but not letting it soak too long to avoid sogginess. Place the bread on the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Serve and Enjoy
Stack the pumpkin French toast on plates. Drizzle with maple syrup, add a dollop of whipped cream if you like, and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy fall flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for Pumpkin French Toast?
Yes! Frozen bread works great because it’s slightly dried out, which helps it soak up the pumpkin batter without becoming too soggy. Just thaw the bread at room temperature for a bit or gently toast it before dipping.
Can I Make Pumpkin French Toast Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the batter and soak the bread as usual, then cook the French toast and keep it warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in a toaster or skillet.
What Can I Substitute For Pumpkin Puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin, canned sweet potato puree or butternut squash puree are delicious alternatives. Just use them in equal amounts for a similar texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in a skillet or toaster oven to keep the outside crispy.
