Pumpkin Spice French Toast
Pumpkin Spice French Toast is a cozy and aromatic fall-inspired breakfast that combines the creamy richness of classic French toast with the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon. Perfect for a comforting weekend treat or festive holiday morning, this recipe features thick slices of brioche or challah soaked in a luscious custard infused with pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and brown sugar or maple syrup, then cooked to golden perfection with crisp edges and a soft center. Easily customizable with various toppings and adaptations for dietary needs, this dish brings the essence of autumn to your breakfast table.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free bread is used)
Bread
- Thick slices of brioche or challah (4-6 slices)
Custard Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves blend)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cooking
- Butter (2 tablespoons, for skillet)
- Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup milk or cream, 1/3 cup pumpkin puree, 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This mixture will soak into your bread and provide that luscious, spiced flavor.
- Soak the Bread Slices: Dip each thick slice of brioche or challah one at a time into the custard mixture, allowing each side to soak for about 20-30 seconds. Ensure the bread absorbs enough liquid without becoming soggy to achieve the perfect texture.
- Cook to Golden Perfection: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter to coat the surface. Add the soaked bread slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Serve Warm and Enjoy: Transfer your Pumpkin Spice French Toast to a plate and add desired toppings such as syrup, nuts, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or powdered sugar. Serve immediately to enjoy every delicious, cozy bite.
Notes
- Use thick, sturdy bread such as brioche, challah, or Texas toast to prevent the toast from falling apart after soaking in the custard.
- Do not over-soak the bread to avoid sogginess and difficulty flipping.
- Maintain medium heat for cooking to ensure the toast cooks evenly without burning.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness and enhance pumpkin spice flavors if desired.
- Preheat your pan to ensure butter sizzles immediately and forms a crispy crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 slices
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: pumpkin spice, french toast, fall breakfast, autumn recipe, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, brunch, cozy breakfast, gluten free option, festive breakfast