Do you ever find yourself craving a breakfast that feels indulgent yet comforting, one that perfectly balances sweetness and warmth? If so, pumpkin french toast might be exactly what you’re looking for. This seasonal treat isn’t just a fall favorite; it’s an easy-to-make dish that can elevate your mornings with minimal effort. Packed with flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, it’s a perfect twist on traditional French toast.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make pumpkin French toast that’s not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or someone looking to spice up your breakfast routine, this recipe is sure to please.

Ingredients List

The beauty of pumpkin French toast lies in its simplicity, and the ingredients required are likely already in your pantry. Below is a list of what you’ll need:

• 4 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
  These soft, fluffy breads provide the perfect texture for soaking in the pumpkin mixture. Brioche has a slightly sweeter flavor, while challah is a bit richer and denser.
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  Pumpkin puree is the star of the show. Make sure to choose unsweetened puree for a more balanced flavor.
• 2 large eggs
  Eggs help bind the mixture and give the French toast a rich, custard-like texture.
• 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free options)
  Whole milk adds creaminess, but feel free to substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  Cinnamon gives the pumpkin French toast its warm, comforting flavor.
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  Nutmeg complements the cinnamon and adds a subtle, spicy depth.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  The vanilla rounds out the flavors, providing sweetness without overwhelming the taste of the pumpkin.
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  Sugar adds a touch of sweetness. You can opt for coconut sugar or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
• Maple syrup for serving
  Drizzle maple syrup on top for an added burst of sweetness and flavor.

Substitutions:

• If you prefer a gluten-free version, try using gluten-free bread.
• For a vegan alternative, swap the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water).
• If you want a lighter option, opt for skim milk or a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk.

Timing

Making pumpkin French toast is quick and easy! Here’s a breakdown of the time required:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 12 minutes
• Total time: 22 minutes, which is about 20% less time than a traditional French toast recipe.

This makes it a perfect weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch when you want to enjoy something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps for a perfectly crispy and fluffy pumpkin French toast that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and sugar. Mix until smooth and well-combined.

Pro Tip: Make sure the mixture is smooth to avoid any lumps, as this will ensure your French toast has an even texture throughout.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Preheat your skillet over medium heat. If you prefer a crispier toast, lightly grease the skillet with butter or a non-stick cooking spray.

Pro Tip: A non-stick skillet works best to avoid the pumpkin mixture sticking. You could also use a griddle if making multiple servings.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Take your thick slices of brioche or challah bread and soak each slice in the pumpkin mixture. Make sure each slice is fully coated, but don’t soak them for too long. About 10 seconds on each side should suffice.

Pro Tip: If the bread is too soft and falls apart, use slightly day-old bread for a sturdier texture.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

Place the soaked bread slices on the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook each slice for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tip: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the French toast while allowing it to cook through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the pumpkin French toast is golden and crisp on both sides, serve immediately with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. For extra flavor, sprinkle powdered sugar, add whipped cream, or top with fresh berries.

Pro Tip: If you have any leftover pumpkin mixture, use it to make pumpkin pancakes or waffles for another delicious breakfast option!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional details for one slice of pumpkin French toast (105g):

• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

This is a relatively balanced breakfast option that provides good carbs for energy and protein for a satisfying meal. The healthy fats from the eggs and the fiber from the bread and pumpkin puree make it a wholesome choice for a morning meal.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking for ways to make this recipe even healthier, here are some ideas:

• Use whole grain bread: For a higher fiber option, swap the brioche or challah for whole wheat or oat bread. This will increase the fiber content and make the dish more filling.
• Reduce the sugar: Cut down on the sugar to make it a lower-sugar option. You can replace the sugar with stevia or monk fruit for a calorie-free alternative.
• Use non-dairy milk: For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, almond, oat, or soy milk is an excellent non-dairy alternative.
• Top with fresh fruits: Instead of using syrup, opt for fresh fruits like bananas, strawberries, or blueberries to naturally sweeten the dish and add vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

While pumpkin French toast is delicious on its own, there are numerous ways to elevate your serving experience. Here are some creative serving ideas:

• Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Top with roasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Add a dollop of yogurt for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pumpkin.
• Pair with a fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing balance to the rich French toast.

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with toppings that suit your preferences!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making pumpkin French toast is straightforward, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Over-soaking the bread: Too much time in the pumpkin mixture can result in soggy French toast. A quick dip is enough to ensure a crispy texture.
• Cooking on too high of heat: If the skillet is too hot, the outside of the French toast will burn while the inside remains raw. Cook on medium heat for even results.
• Not using thick bread: Thin bread won’t hold up well when soaked. Use thick slices of brioche or challah to create the perfect French toast.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have any leftovers, you can store pumpkin French toast for later. Here’s how:

• Refrigeration: Place the French toast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the French toast for up to 1 month. Just make sure to separate the slices with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When ready to eat, reheat in the toaster or on a skillet.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can make a delicious, cozy, and flavorful breakfast that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the comfort of French toast. Pumpkin French toast is a great way to start your day or enjoy a special treat with loved ones. Whether you serve it with maple syrup or a sprinkle of fresh fruits, this dish is bound to be a hit!

Ready to try this pumpkin-infused delight? Share your thoughts in the comments below or leave a review to let us know how your version turned out. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can use a flaxseed egg or other egg substitutes like chia seeds mixed with water to make it vegan-friendly.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the pumpkin mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. The next morning, just soak the bread and cook as usual.

3. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can. Just make sure to cook and puree the fresh pumpkin before using it in the recipe.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the bread for a gluten-free variety to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

5. What other toppings can I use for this dish?

You can top your pumpkin French toast with whipped cream, chopped nuts, fresh fruits, or even a drizzle of caramel for added sweetness.

Print