Pumpkin Pie French Toast is a cozy breakfast treat that combines the soft, custardy texture of classic French toast with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin pie spices. Imagine slices of bread soaked in a cinnamon- and nutmeg-spiced egg batter, then cooked to golden perfection and topped with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s like breakfast and dessert rolled into one delicious dish.
I love making this on chilly mornings when the air smells like fall. For me, adding a little extra vanilla and a touch of brown sugar to the egg mixture really makes the pumpkin flavor pop. Sometimes I even add a bit of cream cheese on the side to balance the sweetness, which is an easy way to make it feel extra special without any fuss.
This French toast is perfect for weekend brunches with family or when you want to surprise someone with a cozy start to their day. Serving it with fresh fruit or a cup of hot coffee or tea rounds out the meal beautifully. Every bite reminds me of pumpkin pie season and all the little moments that come with it—warm kitchens, laughter, and simple happiness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: This gives the French toast its signature flavor and moisture. Use canned pumpkin for convenience, or swap with homemade puree if you prefer fresh. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it’s sweetened and spiced already.
Bread: Brioche or challah are soft and thick, perfect for soaking up the custard. If unavailable, use Texas toast or another sturdy, thick bread to prevent sogginess.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds warmth. You can use store-bought spice mix or make your own with simple individual spices for a fresher taste.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but half-and-half or even cream can make the custard more decadent. For a lighter version, try almond or oat milk, but the texture might change slightly.
How Can I Make the French Toast Soak Up the Custard Without Getting Too Soggy?
The secret is in how you dip the bread.
- Use thick, sturdy slices that hold liquid well, like brioche or challah.
- Dip the bread into the mixture slowly, allowing it to absorb but not soak too long. About 20-30 seconds per side usually works well.
- Make sure not to oversoak, or the bread may fall apart when cooking.
- Cooking on medium heat helps the inside cook without burning the outside.
- Preheat your pan and add butter or oil to create a nice crust and prevent sticking.
With these tips, your pumpkin pie French toast will be perfectly tender inside and slightly crisp outside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for whisking the egg and pumpkin mixture smoothly.
- Whisk – helps blend the pumpkin and spices evenly into the eggs and milk.
- Nonstick skillet or griddle – cooks the toast evenly without sticking or burning.
- Spatula – makes flipping the French toast easy and gentle so it doesn’t break.
- Measuring spoons and cup – to ensure your pumpkin pie spice and liquids are just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the custard mix for a creamy, tangy twist that balances sweetness.
- Top with fresh apple slices sautéed in cinnamon butter for extra fall flavor and texture.
- Swap pecans for chopped walnuts or toasted hazelnuts to vary the crunch and nutty taste.
- Mix in a tablespoon of chocolate chips or swirl in a little caramel sauce for a sweeter treat.
Pumpkin Pie French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Custard Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or 1 tsp cinnamon + 1/2 tsp nutmeg + pinch of cloves)
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Toast and Topping:
- 8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- Butter or oil, for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Pecans, roughly chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a quick and cozy breakfast option. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the custard, dipping the bread, and cooking each slice until golden brown on both sides. Serve it hot and fresh for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pumpkin Custard Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth and well combined. This mixture gives your French toast that warm, fall-inspired flavor.
2. Prepare to Cook:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or oil to prevent sticking and help your French toast develop a beautiful golden crust.
3. Soak the Bread:
Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin custard mixture, letting it soak for about 20 to 30 seconds on each side so it absorbs the flavors but doesn’t become too soggy.
4. Cook the French Toast:
Place the soaked bread slices on the heated skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat if needed to avoid burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the cooked French toast to your serving plates. Top each stack with a generous dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle with chopped pecans, and drizzle warm maple syrup over the top. Serve right away and enjoy the cozy, spiced pumpkin flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Puree for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen pumpkin puree works great! Just thaw it completely in the fridge or at room temperature before using to ensure a smooth custard mixture.
What’s the Best Bread for Pumpkin Pie French Toast?
Brioche or challah are ideal because they’re thick and soft, soaking up the custard beautifully without falling apart. If you can’t find them, thick slices of Texas toast or day-old white bread make good substitutes.
Can I Make Pumpkin Pie French Toast Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the custard mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. For best results, cook the toast fresh just before serving to keep it crispy on the outside and tender inside.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to regain crispness instead of the microwave, which can make it soggy.