Pumpkin Spice French Toast is the perfect way to bring a little cozy fall flavor to your breakfast table. Soft slices of bread soak up a creamy pumpkin-spiced egg mixture, then get cooked to golden brown perfection, with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and all those warm spices we all love this time of year.
I love making this on chilly mornings when the smell of pumpkin and spices fills the kitchen and makes everything feel extra special. It’s a treat that’s easy to whip up but tastes like you put in so much effort. One little tip I have is to use thick slices of bread, like brioche or challah, because they soak up the pumpkin mixture nicely without falling apart.
My favorite way to enjoy this Pumpkin Spice French Toast is with a drizzle of real maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Sometimes, I even add a few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch. It’s a breakfast that makes slow mornings feel cozy, special, and just a little bit magical.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin for convenience but homemade puree works great too. Avoid pumpkin pie filling with added sugar and spices because it can affect the flavor balance. If unavailable, sweet potato puree is a nice alternative.
Bread: Brioche or challah are perfect for soaking up the custard. If you want a lighter option, try thick slices of Texas toast or sourdough. Day-old bread works best because it’s sturdier and absorbs the mixture without falling apart.
Milk: Whole milk makes the custard creamy. For extra richness, half-and-half is lovely. Dairy-free milks like almond or oat milk can be swapped in if needed but may change the texture slightly.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves is what gives the dish its warm flavor. If you don’t have it, mix your own using these spices in equal parts to taste.
How Do You Get the French Toast Custard to Soak In Without Falling Apart?
Achieving the perfect soak is key to tender, flavorful French toast. Here’s how to do it:
- Use thick, sturdy bread slices that are a day or two old.
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly so the pumpkin and spices blend well.
- Dip each slice for about 20 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb but not become soggy.
- If your bread feels too dry, extend dipping time slightly, but be gentle to avoid tearing.
- Let excess custard drip off before placing slices on the hot pan to prevent sogginess or sticking.
- Cook over medium heat; too high can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
Patience and the right bread make all the difference for that soft inside and golden outside French toast texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – easy for mixing the pumpkin spice custard evenly.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs, pumpkin, and spices smoothly.
- Nonstick skillet or griddle – you’ll cook the French toast evenly without sticking.
- Spatula – perfect for flipping the slices gently without tearing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep your spice mix and liquids balanced every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a bright, citrus twist that pairs well with pumpkin.
- Stir in chocolate chips or sprinkle on top before cooking for a sweet surprise that melts perfectly.
- Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for chewy bursts that add texture.
- Use cream cheese dollops or mascarpone on top for a rich, tangy contrast to the spices.
Pumpkin Spice French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richer texture)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- Pinch of salt
- 8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
For Cooking and Topping:
- Butter, for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt, for topping
- Pecan halves and chopped walnuts, for garnish
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare your pumpkin custard mixture and soak the bread, plus 15–20 minutes to cook the French toast. Total time is around 30 minutes, perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Pumpkin Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
2. Heat Your Cooking Surface:
Preheat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter to coat the surface, melting it so it doesn’t burn.
3. Soak the Bread:
Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin custard mixture. Let it soak for about 20 seconds on each side so it absorbs the flavors but remains sturdy enough to handle.
4. Cook the French Toast:
Place the soaked bread on the hot skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until the bread is cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
5. Keep Warm and Serve:
Remove cooked slices and keep warm in a low oven while cooking the remaining bread. To serve, stack 2–3 slices on a plate. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt, a pat of butter, and sprinkle pecans, chopped walnuts, and ground cinnamon on top.
6. Final Touches:
Finish with a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, cozy flavors of this delicious pumpkin spiced breakfast.
Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Puree for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge or at room temperature before mixing it into the custard. This helps the puree blend smoothly without lumps.
What Type of Bread Works Best for Pumpkin Spice French Toast?
Thick, sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best because they soak up the pumpkin mixture well without falling apart. Day-old bread is ideal since it absorbs moisture better than fresh bread.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to maintain its texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Swap the whole milk for any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use a dairy-free butter alternative for cooking, and you can still enjoy that cozy pumpkin spice flavor without dairy.
