This Pumpkin French Toast is a warm and cozy breakfast treat! It’s made with soft bread dipped in a creamy pumpkin mixture, giving it a delicious fall flavor that you’ll love.
Every bite is like a hug in the morning! I like to top mine with maple syrup and whipped cream. Trust me, it’ll make you smile—even on a Monday! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the mixture and giving the French toast its texture. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water as a substitute for each egg).
Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin puree is what makes this dish special! If you don’t have it, you can use butternut squash puree or even sweet potato puree as a substitute for a similar flavor.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but any milk will do! Almond, oat, or soy milk can be great alternatives for dairy-free options. Just be sure to use unsweetened varieties.
Spices: The cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves come together to create that beloved pumpkin spice flavor. If you don’t have ground cloves, nutmeg or extra cinnamon can work in a pinch!
Bread: Thick slices of brioche or challah are perfect for this recipe. However, any hearty bread that will hold up to soaking will work. Try using sourdough or even whole grain bread for a different twist.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked French Toast?
Getting that perfect balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside takes a bit of attention. Here’s how to nail it:
- Whisk your mixture well so that all the spices are fully distributed. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
- Don’t rush the soaking process; 20-30 seconds per side helps the bread absorb the mixture without falling apart.
- Keep your skillet at medium heat—this allows the toast to cook through while getting golden without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches to ensure each slice gets even contact with the skillet.
By following these tips, you’ll have beautifully cooked pumpkin French toast that’s sure to impress!
Pumpkin French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pumpkin Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus more for serving)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For The French Toast:
- 8 slices thick bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast works well)
- Butter or oil, for cooking
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pumpkin French Toast takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10-15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll have a cozy breakfast ready in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pumpkin Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
2. Prep the Skillet:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or a little oil to ensure the toast doesn’t stick.
3. Soak the Bread:
Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin egg mixture. Allow it to soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side, which helps it absorb the flavors without getting too soggy.
4. Cook the French Toast:
Carefully place the soaked bread slices on the hot skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
5. Finish Cooking:
Once all the slices are cooked, remove them from the skillet and transfer to a plate. You may need to add more butter or oil to the skillet for the next batch, so keep it ready!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pumpkin French toast warm, generously topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy this cozy, fall-inspired treat!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Bread?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread will add a nice, nutty flavor, and gluten-free bread can be used for a gluten-free option. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to hold up to soaking in the pumpkin mixture.
Can I Use Other Types of Milk?
Yes, you can substitute any milk you prefer! Almond milk, oat milk, or even coconut milk will work well. Just make sure to choose unsweetened varieties for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the toaster or warm them in a skillet over low heat.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! You can customize your French toast with toppings like nuts, fresh fruit, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor. Feel free to get creative!
