Pumpkin Pie French Toast

Pumpkin Pie French Toast is my favorite way to bring cozy autumn flavor to breakfast any time of year. The custardy bread gets saturated with creamy pumpkin and fragrant spices then pan-fried until it is crisp and golden outside and soft inside. Topped with maple syrup or clouds of whipped cream this feels just like eating dessert for breakfast without all the fuss of pie baking.

My family is crazy for this french toast on chilly Saturday mornings and it always brings back memories of treating ourselves to fall flavors when we want something special but simple. My kids even ask for seconds before I can get the last batch out of the pan.

Ingredients

• Eggs: Provide the base for the custard and give structure to the toast
• Milk: Makes the custard light and helps soak into the bread
• Pumpkin puree: Brings natural sweetness and earthy richness Always check for unsweetened pure pumpkin and not pie filling
• Vanilla: Enhances the dessert like aroma and flavor Choose pure vanilla extract for best results
• Cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice: Saturate the toast with warmth and coziness Use freshly opened spices for fullest flavor
• Brown sugar: Adds a gentle caramel note Pack it firmly for accurate measurement
• Texas toast or thick white bread: Soaks up the custard without falling apart You can also use Challah or French bread for a softer inside
• Butter: Essential for crisp golden edges Use real butter and let it soften to make spreading easier
• Toppings: Whipped cream pecans powdered sugar or maple syrup make every plate feel festive Go for real maple syrup if possible

Instructions

Mix the Custard:

In a large shallow bowl or glass pie plate whisk together eggs milk pumpkin puree vanilla cinnamon pumpkin pie spice and brown sugar until completely smooth. This is where the magic starts. Make sure your mixture is uniform so every bite gets all the spice and pumpkin flavor

Prep the Skillet:

Melt one and a half tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Keep an eye that the butter does not brown or burn as this will shape the color and flavor of your toast

Dip and Coat the Bread:

Take one slice of bread at a time and immerse both sides in the pumpkin custard letting it soak for just a few seconds. Lift and let the excess drip off. Fully coating means the slices crisp on the outside and stay creamy in the middle

Cook the Toast:

Place the dipped bread in the hot skillet. Grill each slice for two to three minutes per side until the bread is lightly golden brown and the coating is cooked through. Do not rush this part as slow even browning creates the ideal texture

Work in Batches:

Repeat dipping and cooking with the remaining bread slices and butter You may need several batches depending on skillet size Always melt fresh butter for each round to get that perfect toast

Serve Warm and Add Toppings:

Arrange the cooked pumpkin pie french toast on plates and serve steaming hot. Top with extra butter maple syrup whipped cream or any favorite toppings Serve right away for the best crispy soft contrast

My favorite ingredient in this recipe is the pure pumpkin puree It gives the whole dish a golden orange glow that reminds me of fall family mornings when the leaves outside were just starting to turn and everyone gathered in pajama coziness around the breakfast table

Storage Tips

Keep leftover french toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for the crispiest texture. Layer between parchment so slices do not stick

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Texas toast use thick Challah or French bread Brioche works well too. Substitute dairy free milk and butter for a plant based version. For extra flavor a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can be added

Serving Suggestions

Pile with toasted pecans or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. This pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or chai. For a dessert twist add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel

Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations

Pumpkin pie spices are inspired by classic American baking but this technique works with sweet potato or apple butter too for holiday twists. Adjust spices by season Add extra cinnamon in winter or try ginger in early fall

This cozy french toast is a fall breakfast you will crave all year. Every plate is gone in minutes and no one misses the pumpkin pie.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other bread types?

Yes, challah or French bread are both great choices for sturdy, fluffy slices that soak up the custard well.

→ What toppings pair well with this?

Classic toppings include whipped cream, pecans, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

→ Is fresh or canned pumpkin better?

Both work well, but canned pumpkin puree offers consistency and convenience for this dish.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk with plant-based milk and use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.

→ How can I keep batches warm?

Place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F) until ready to serve.