Fall mornings call for cozy breakfasts, and nothing captures the season better than Pumpkin French Toast. This delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite combines soft, custardy bread with warm pumpkin spice flavors, creating a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for weekends, holiday brunches, or a special autumn treat, pumpkin French toast is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough to make any day feel festive.
What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to bring seasonal flavors to the table. With a few pantry staples—pumpkin purée, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of maple syrup—you can transform ordinary bread into a breakfast worthy of fall celebrations. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or enjoying a quiet morning to yourself, this pumpkin French toast will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of autumn.
Why You’ll Love Pumpkin French Toast
- Warm and Cozy – Perfectly spiced and comforting for chilly fall mornings.
- Easy to Make – Quick prep and straightforward steps for any level of cook.
- Customizable – Top with whipped cream, maple syrup, or fresh fruit for variety.
- Kid-Friendly – A fun, festive breakfast that children love.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep the custard ahead of time for a stress-free morning.
With the soft, custardy texture of French toast and the rich flavor of pumpkin spice, this breakfast is perfect for making autumn mornings extra special.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 slices of thick bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best)
- Butter or oil, for cooking
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard – In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin purée, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth.
- Dip the Bread – Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin custard mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side.
- Cook the French Toast – Place soaked bread on the heated skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Keep Warm – If cooking in batches, keep the cooked slices warm on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven.
- Serve – Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
What to Serve With Pumpkin French Toast
- Fresh Fruit – Sliced apples, pears, or berries complement the pumpkin flavor.
- Maple Syrup – Drizzle generously for a sweet, cozy touch.
- Bacon or Sausage – Adds a savory balance to the sweet French toast.
- Coffee or Chai Latte – The warm spices pair perfectly with your favorite fall beverage.
This dish can be the centerpiece of a fall brunch spread or a special weekend breakfast.
Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin French Toast
- Use Thick Bread – Thick slices soak up the custard without falling apart. Brioche or challah are ideal.
- Do Not Over-Soak – Soak just long enough to coat; over-soaking can make bread soggy.
- Cook on Medium Heat – Prevents burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
- Make It Ahead – Prepare the custard the night before to save time in the morning.
- Enhance Flavor – Sprinkle extra pumpkin pie spice on top while cooking or serving.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze cooked slices in a single layer with parchment paper between slices for up to 1 month. Reheat in the toaster or oven.
- Reheating – Warm in a skillet, oven, or toaster to restore crisp edges. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of purée?
No. Pumpkin pie filling contains extra sugar and spices that may affect texture and flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute milk with almond, oat, or soy milk, and use coconut oil or vegan butter for cooking.
What bread works best for French toast?
Thick, sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast absorbs the custard without falling apart.
Can I make it ahead for a crowd?
Yes! Prepare the custard ahead, soak the bread, and cook just before serving for fresh, warm French toast.
Conclusion
Pumpkin French Toast is a warm, cozy, and indulgent way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With pumpkin purée, fragrant spices, and golden-cooked bread, it’s a breakfast that feels festive yet simple to prepare. Whether for a weekend brunch, a holiday morning, or a special treat for your family, this pumpkin French toast recipe brings the essence of autumn straight to your plate.
Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, sip a hot latte on the side, and savor the comforting flavors of fall in every bite.
Pumpkin French Toast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
- Heat butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Dip each bread slice into the pumpkin custard, coating both sides well.
- Cook bread slices 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.