Name: Pumpkin French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup pumpkin purée; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves; pinch of salt; 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread; butter or oil for cooking

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Pumpkin French Toast is a true fall breakfast classic, combining velvety pumpkin purée, aromatic spices, and plush brioche bread to create a brunch-worthy treat that feels like a warm autumn hug. This irresistible recipe is one of those crowd-pleasers you’ll find yourself making on crisp mornings, festive weekends, or anytime you crave cozy comfort food with a seasonal twist. It’s joyfully simple to prepare, gently spiced, and golden crisp on the outside with a custardy, pumpkin-infused center – the perfect way to start any day feeling special.

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Pumpkin French Toast recipe has a delicious part to play. From creamy pumpkin purée to classic fall spices, you’ll find each item helps build that unmistakable flavor and the perfect French toast texture — together, they create magic you can taste!

4 large eggs: The foundation of your custard, they bring richness and structure to every slice.
1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and ensures your custard soaks the bread beautifully for that plush interior.
1/2 cup pumpkin purée: Offers authentic pumpkin flavor and that gorgeous golden-orange color.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: For a gentle sweetness and caramel notes that complement the spices.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a sweet, inviting aroma.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Delivers that comforting, classic warmth we love in pumpkin recipes.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings aromatic depth and a hint of nuttiness.
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves: Intensifies the spice profile for authentic pumpkin pie vibes.
Pinch of salt: Enhances every sweet, spiced note in your French toast.
8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread: Sturdy and plush, these breads absorb the custard beautifully without falling apart.
Butter or oil for cooking: Ensures golden, crisp edges and extra flavor in every bite.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Custard

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt until your custard base is completely smooth and all those spices are happily mingling. This is where your Pumpkin French Toast starts getting its dreamy fall flavor!

Step 2: Prep the Bread and Heat Your Skillet

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat, adding a slick of butter or oil to get things sizzling. Meanwhile, set out your thick slices of brioche or challah—slightly stale bread works best, so it soaks up the pumpkin mixture without turning mushy.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

One at a time, dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin custard, letting it soak for a few seconds per side. You want each piece thoroughly coated but not falling apart. Let any excess drip off before cooking.

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Place the soaked bread slices onto your hot skillet, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes per side. Keep an eye out for that perfect golden-brown (but not burnt) exterior and make sure the inside is set and custardy.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once cooked, keep the slices warm as you finish the batch. Serve up your Pumpkin French Toast hot, stacking it high on plates with any toppings you love.

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast

Garnishes

For the perfect finishing touch, top your Pumpkin French Toast with a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup, a snowy sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. Feeling extra? Add a dusting of pumpkin spice, a handful of toasted pecans, or even a scoop of vanilla yogurt—these little extras make every bite feel like a special occasion.

Side Dishes

Round out your autumn brunch spread with savory sides like crispy bacon or sausage links to create the ultimate sweet-and-savory balance. Fresh fruit—think sliced pears, apples, or a bright citrus salad—pair beautifully and keep things feeling light and festive.

Creative Ways to Present

To really wow your guests, try layering the Pumpkin French Toast diagonally on a platter, topping it with colorful berries, or even arranging mini French toast “sticks” for easy dipping. Turn it into a brunch board with tiny carafes of syrups, flavored butters, and bowls of nuts or granola—let everyone make their own customized amazing breakfast plate!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply let the slices of Pumpkin French Toast cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’ll stay soft and flavorful, perfect for quick weekday breakfasts.

Freezing

Want to get a jump on breakfast? Cooked French toast freezes beautifully: lay slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just thaw slices as needed.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Pumpkin French Toast in a toaster oven or a regular oven set to 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped. You can also microwave slices in a pinch, but the texture will be a bit softer.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of bread?

Absolutely! While brioche and challah are traditional favorites for their pillowy texture, sturdy sandwich bread, French bread, or even sourdough can work—just make sure the slices are thick and slightly stale for best results.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Swap the whole milk for any unsweetened non-dairy milk (like almond, oat, or soy milk) and use your favorite vegan butter or a bit of neutral oil for cooking. The results will still be rich, creamy, and delicious!

Can I make Pumpkin French Toast ahead of time for a crowd?

Yes! You can cook the French toast in advance, arrange it on a baking sheet, and warm it in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes before serving. This keeps the slices hot and ready for hungry guests without any stress.

What toppings go best with Pumpkin French Toast?

Besides maple syrup, try whipped cream, vanilla or honey yogurt, toasted walnuts or pecans, a sprinkle of granola, salted caramel sauce, or even spiced apple compote for extra decadence and crunch.

Is canned pumpkin purée the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No, be sure to use pure canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling. The pie filling contains added sugars and spices which will throw off the balance of flavors in your homemade pumpkin custard.

Final Thoughts

If you love cozy flavors and easy, brunch-worthy dishes, you absolutely have to make Pumpkin French Toast. It’s got all the heartwarming notes of autumn wrapped up in each golden slice, and you’ll find it’s just as perfect for lazy mornings as it is for lively holiday gatherings. Give it a try—this is one recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal tradition!

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this delicious Pumpkin French Toast recipe. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, this dish is a seasonal twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pumpkin Mixture:

4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup pumpkin purée
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
pinch of salt

For Cooking:

8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread
butter or oil for cooking

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth.
Cook the French Toast: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side. Place soaked bread onto the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream if desired.