Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and delightful breakfast option this fall, let me share my cherished Pumpkin French Toast Recipe with you! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The sweet pumpkin flavor combined with the spices of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it perfect for lazy weekends or special family gatherings. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a relaxing brunch with friends, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.

Imagine serving up perfectly golden slices of French toast, topped with homemade whipped pumpkin butter. It’s the ultimate way to embrace the flavors of the season, and trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious breakfast in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike love the sweet pumpkin flavor combined with warm spices.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the pumpkin butter ahead of time to save precious minutes in the morning.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s an ordinary day or a festive brunch, this Pumpkin French Toast fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin French Toast Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious breakfast!

For the French Toast

• 4 eggs
• 2/3 cup milk (whole, low-fat or skim)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 12 slices Texas toast (or French bread, challah, or croissant halves)

For the Pumpkin Butter

• 1/2 cup salted or unsalted butter (1 stick), room temperature
• 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
• 3 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Change up the bread: Use any bread you have on hand – brioche or whole grain can add different flavors and textures.
• Add some nuts: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch on top!
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on classic flavors.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the regular milk for a dairy-free option.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Skillet

Set a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Melting the butter first creates that lovely crispy texture on your French toast while adding richness.

Step 2: Whisk Together Ingredients

In a rectangular baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. This mixture is what gives your toast its deliciously festive flavor!

Step 3: Dip & Cook the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, flipping to coat both sides. Then place them onto your hot skillet. Cook until each side is golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side. The magic happens here as they soak up all those wonderful flavors!

Step 4: Make Your Pumpkin Butter

While your French toast cooks, let’s make that heavenly pumpkin butter! In a small mixing bowl, combine softened butter and beat it with a hand mixer until light and fluffy—this should take about 2 minutes. Add in the remaining ingredients: pumpkin puree, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Beat again until fluffy. Store any leftovers in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Now you’re all set to serve hot slices of Pumpkin French Toast topped with that dreamy whipped pumpkin butter! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

Making the perfect Pumpkin French Toast is all about balance and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your breakfast turns out delicious every time!

• Choose the right bread: Using thick slices of Texas toast, French bread, or challah helps soak up more of the custard mixture, resulting in a richer flavor and satisfying texture.

• Let the bread soak: Allowing the bread to sit in the egg mixture for a minute or two before cooking lets it absorb more flavor. This will give you that delightful pumpkin taste in every bite!

• Control the heat: Cooking your French toast over medium heat ensures that it cooks evenly without burning. If your skillet is too hot, you might end up with a burnt exterior and an uncooked center.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice according to your preference. More spice can enhance the fall flavors and make each bite even more comforting.

• Make ahead of time: You can prepare the pumpkin butter and egg mixture the night before. This way, your morning routine will be quicker, allowing you to enjoy this treat on busy mornings!

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

Serving Pumpkin French Toast is all about creating a cozy, inviting breakfast experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar enhances sweetness and adds visual appeal.
• Fresh whipped cream: For an extra indulgent touch, top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of pumpkin.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy side that balances out the sweetness of the French toast.
• Breakfast sausage alternatives: Try plant-based sausage links or patties for a savory option that complements the sweetness of the toast.
• Cinnamon spiced oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal flavored with cinnamon makes for a comforting side dish that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly morning.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Pumpkin French Toast will be not only delicious but also beautifully presented! Enjoy crafting this autumnal dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin French Toast is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, making busy mornings much more manageable. Here’s how to store and enjoy them later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover French toast to cool completely.
• Place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the French toast cool completely.
• Lay the slices flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen pieces into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated French toast, reheat in a toaster or toaster oven until heated through.
• For frozen slices, you can either thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating or heat directly from frozen in a toaster or microwave. Just be sure to check that they are heated all the way through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make this Pumpkin French Toast Recipe without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). This will create a similar binding effect.

What should I serve with Pumpkin French Toast?

This Pumpkin French Toast Recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, nuts, or even yogurt for added creaminess. A drizzle of maple syrup enhances its sweetness perfectly!

How long does it take to make this Pumpkin French Toast Recipe?

This recipe is super quick! It takes just about 5 minutes to prep and around 6 minutes to cook, making it ready in about 11 minutes total.

Can I use other types of bread for this Pumpkin French Toast Recipe?

Yes! While Texas toast is delicious, feel free to use french bread, challah, or even croissant halves for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and comforting Pumpkin French Toast! It’s perfect for cozy mornings and special occasions alike. The delightful spices combined with homemade pumpkin butter truly make it a standout dish. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!