Pumpkin French Toast
This Pumpkin French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, perfect for cozy fall mornings. With its rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, this dish not only brightens your breakfast table but also makes an excellent choice for holiday brunches or special gatherings. Its unique custard-like texture and golden-brown exterior create a satisfying contrast, making it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to celebrate the flavors of the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting taste that embodies the spirit of fall.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this Pumpkin French Toast in no time, making it ideal for busy mornings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weekend breakfast or a festive Thanksgiving brunch, this dish fits perfectly into any setting.
- Versatile Toppings: Enjoy it plain or elevate your meal with toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit to suit your taste.
- Great for Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields 24 servings, making it perfect for gatherings or family feasts.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Pumpkin French Toast, having the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet or griddle: Prevents sticking and allows for even cooking of each slice.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to whisk together all ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Ensures that the pumpkin mixture is smooth and well-combined for even flavor distribution.
Ingredients
For the Custard Mixture
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 8 large eggs, whisked
- 1⅓ cups milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
For the Bread
- 24 slices thick-cut white bread (challah or brioche recommended)
For Cooking
- Oil or cooking spray for greasing the pan
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Heat Your Skillet
Heat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture. Allow each slice to soak briefly on both sides to absorb enough custard without falling apart.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Cook the soaked bread slices in batches. Each side should take about 2–3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve your Pumpkin French Toast warm. Top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream as desired. Enjoy this delicious seasonal treat!
How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast
Pumpkin French Toast is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enhance its flavors with various toppings and sides that complement the warm spices of this fall favorite. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
With Maple Syrup
- Drizzle warm maple syrup over each slice for a classic sweet touch.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and a festive look.
Sprinkled with Powdered Sugar
- Dust powdered sugar lightly over the toast for a beautiful, sweet finish.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Accompany your French toast with sliced bananas, berries, or apples for freshness and a burst of color.
Pairing with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
On the Side of Yogurt
- Serve with a bowl of yogurt for a creamy balance that complements the toast perfectly.

How to Perfect Pumpkin French Toast
To ensure your Pumpkin French Toast turns out wonderfully every time, follow these tips for the best results.
- Choose the right bread: Use thick slices of challah or brioche for optimal texture and flavor absorption.
- Don’t rush the soaking: Allow each slice to soak in the custard mixture long enough to absorb all those pumpkin flavors.
- Preheat your skillet: Make sure your skillet or griddle is adequately heated before adding the bread to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in smaller batches for even cooking and crispness.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices like cloves or ginger if you enjoy stronger flavors.
- Serve immediately: Pumpkin French Toast is best enjoyed hot off the griddle, so serve it right away!
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin French Toast
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin French Toast can enhance your breakfast experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage links add a salty contrast to the sweetness of the toast.
- Breakfast Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that complements any breakfast.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can bring freshness and balance alongside the rich pumpkin flavor.
- Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a crunchy, creamy side dish that feels light yet satisfying.
- Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds offers a nutritious option that pairs well with sweet dishes.
- Eggs Any Style: Scrambled, fried, or poached eggs add protein and richness to round out your meal.
- Cinnamon Roll Casserole: For those who love extra sweetness, this dessert-like dish makes an indulgent side that matches perfectly.
- Chia Pudding: A healthy option that can be made ahead of time adds texture and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin French Toast can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can spoil the fun.
- Skipping the soaking time: Allowing the bread to soak in the mixture is crucial. If you rush this step, the toast won’t absorb enough flavor.
- Using stale bread: Fresh bread is key for texture and taste. Stale bread may not soak properly and will yield a less satisfying result.
- Overcooking the toast: Cooking too long can lead to burnt edges and dry centers. Keep an eye on your slices and flip them when golden brown.
- Not adjusting spices: The spice levels can vary based on personal preference. Taste your pumpkin mixture before soaking the bread and adjust as needed.
- Choosing the wrong pan: A non-stick skillet or griddle is best for even cooking. Using a regular pan might lead to sticking and uneven browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin French Toast in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin French Toast
- Freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Properly stored, it can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Pumpkin French Toast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin French Toast.
How do I make Pumpkin French Toast vegan?
You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or silken tofu, and use almond or soy milk instead of dairy milk.
Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! While challah or brioche are recommended, you can use any thick-cut white bread you like.
What toppings go well with Pumpkin French Toast?
Consider serving it with maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or even caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
How do I make my own pumpkin purée?
Simply roast fresh pumpkin pieces until soft, then blend until smooth. You can also use canned pumpkin purée for convenience.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin French Toast is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you stick to classic toppings or experiment with new flavors, this recipe is sure to become a fall favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins!
Breakfast

Pumpkin French Toast
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the flavors of fall with this Pumpkin French Toast, a delightful take on a breakfast classic that will warm your mornings. Infused with rich pumpkin puree and aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, each slice boasts a custard-like texture that perfectly complements its golden-brown exterior. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or cozy family brunches. Elevate your experience by topping it with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for a personal touch. With its ease of preparation and the ability to serve a crowd, this Pumpkin French Toast is destined to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- 8 large eggs
- 1⅓ cups milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 24 slices thick-cut bread (challah or brioche recommended)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it.
- Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring both sides are soaked.
- Cook the soaked bread slices in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve warm topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 80g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg