Pumpkin French Toast is a cozy breakfast classic with a delightful seasonal twist, combining fluffy slices of bread with creamy pumpkin puree and aromatic spices to make every morning feel like a special autumn celebration. Warm, comforting, and kissed with the scent of vanilla, this dish transforms an ordinary morning into a festive occasion, whether you’re treating guests or just indulging in a little extra self-care. Each forkful offers creamy custard and golden edges that practically beg for a pour of maple syrup—once you try it, you’ll want to make Pumpkin French Toast year-round!

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Pumpkin French Toast is all in the details—and these simple, easy-to-find ingredients each add something wonderfully unique. Don’t worry, there’s nothing fussy here, just straightforward staples that combine for incredible flavor, a custardy texture, and that signature fall flair.

Bread: Opt for something sturdy like brioche or challah for the fluffiest, richest slices; day-old bread works beautifully since it soaks up the custard without going mushy.
Eggs: Essential for making the creamy custard that gives your toast that luxurious, soft center.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but any milk—dairy or non-dairy—will do the trick for a creamy soak.
Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show, bringing natural sweetness, velvety texture, and gorgeous color to every bite.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: This cozy blend lifts the whole dish with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—don’t skip it if you want that unmistakable pumpkin spice flavor!
Vanilla: Just a splash gives the custard a warm, fragrant undertone that ties everything together.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast

Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Custard

Grab your favorite large mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla until the mixture is totally smooth and well combined. This step is where all that signature flavor comes together, so take a moment to enjoy the delicious aroma!

Step 2: Dip the Bread

Submerge each bread slice in the pumpkin custard, making sure both sides get a generous soak. Let the bread hang out in the mixture for about 10–15 seconds per side—enough to soak it through, but not so long that it gets soggy and falls apart.

Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and coat lightly with butter or cooking spray. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet, letting them cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden brown with slightly crisp edges and a custardy center.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Pile up your hot Pumpkin French Toast on plates and serve with a big drizzle of maple syrup. Don’t be shy—this is the moment to sprinkle on your favorite garnishes or sides and make breakfast truly memorable!

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast

Garnishes

Top your Pumpkin French Toast with a dusting of powdered sugar, a pat of butter, or a scattering of toasted pecans for extra crunch. If you love a little creamy richness, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce—everything’s better with a finishing touch!

Side Dishes

Serve Pumpkin French Toast alongside crispy bacon, chicken sausage, or a fruit salad for a balanced breakfast spread. A cup of hot coffee or spiced chai pairs beautifully with the warm spices, rounding out that comforting autumn feeling.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the slices high with alternating layers of whipped cream for a brunch-worthy centerpiece, or cut them into sticks for a kid-friendly dunking breakfast. For an elegant twist, arrange slices in a spiral with fresh berries and a drizzle of syrup—it’s as beautiful as it is delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Pumpkin French Toast, let it cool completely, then store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Place parchment paper between the slices to prevent sticking and preserve that perfect, fluffy texture.

Freezing

Pumpkin French Toast freezes like a dream! Lay cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. Pull out as many slices as you need for an instantly comforting breakfast—just make sure to eat within two months for the best flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, pop slices straight from the fridge or freezer into a toaster, toaster oven, or regular oven until warmed through and crisped around the edges. Microwaving works too, though the edges won’t be quite as crisp. Either way, you’ll be minutes away from a hot, homemade breakfast!

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin French Toast dairy free?

Absolutely! Simply swap regular milk for your favorite non-dairy alternative like almond, oat, or coconut milk. You can also use a plant-based butter, and the flavor will still be warm and cozy.

What’s the best bread for Pumpkin French Toast?

Brioche or challah are top choices thanks to their tender crumb and rich flavor, but you can use French bread or even thick-sliced sandwich bread. Using day-old bread gives you the best chance for soaking up all that pumpkin custard without falling apart.

Can I prep the custard ahead of time?

Yes! Whisk the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, spices, and vanilla together the night before and store covered in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before dipping your bread, and breakfast will come together so quickly.

Can I make this recipe with gluten-free bread?

Definitely—you can substitute any gluten-free bread you like. Sturdier loaves work better to prevent a mushy texture, so pick a gluten-free bread that’s dense and holds up to soaking.

How can I make Pumpkin French Toast for a crowd?

Double or triple the recipe, then lay prepared slices on a baking sheet. Keep them warm in a low oven (about 200°F) while you cook the rest so everyone can enjoy hot Pumpkin French Toast together when it’s time to eat!

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin French Toast is such a joyful, comforting way to bring a touch of autumn to your breakfast table no matter the season. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistibly spiced, pumpkin-kissed dish, and let the aroma fill your home—it might just become your new favorite morning ritual!