In this Pumpkin French Toast recipe, you’ll discover a delightful way to enjoy a classic breakfast with a fall twist. The creamy pumpkin custard combined with warm spices creates a cozy flavor that is perfect for any occasion, from holiday brunches to everyday breakfasts. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a unique taste that will impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a rich, warm flavor that embodies the essence of fall.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Pumpkin French Toast is quick and hassle-free.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat or a brunch favorite; it pairs wonderfully with toppings like maple syrup or fresh fruit.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves four and can be easily doubled for larger groups.
- Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, this comforting dish keeps you satisfied throughout the morning.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Pumpkin French Toast experience seamless, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure that your cooking process is efficient and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick griddle or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Rimmed baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick griddle or skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, making flipping the French toast easier.
- Mixing bowl: A wide bowl allows you to whisk the custard ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the eggs, pumpkin puree, and spices smoothly.
- Rimmed baking sheet: Keeps the finished French toast warm in the oven while you cook additional batches.

Ingredients
In this Pumpkin French Toast recipe, thick slices of bread are dipped into a spiced pumpkin custard and griddled until golden. To serve, spread with salted butter, drizzle with maple syrup, and dust with powdered sugar. This recipe serves 4.
For the Custard Mixture
- nonstick spray (like ghee oil or coconut oil, for griddle)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup 100% pure pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 3/4 cup milk of choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Bread
- 12 to 14 slices bread (sliced thick (like brioche, challah or texas toast))
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast
Step 1: Preheat Your Griddle
Preheat your griddle to 350℉ (or 180℃). Grease it with coconut oil or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a wide bowl:
1. Whisk together the eggs until blended.
2. Add in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Work in batches:
1. Quickly dip both sides of each slice of bread into the pumpkin custard mixture.
2. Allow excess batter to drip back into the bowl before placing onto the hot griddle.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown
Cook each slice for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side:
1. Look for a deep golden brown color.
2. Ensure centers are cooked through before placing on a rimmed baking sheet to keep warm in a low oven set at 200℉ (90℃).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Pumpkin French Toast hot:
1. Spread with butter.
2. Drizzle with maple syrup.
3. Dust with powdered sugar and an extra sprinkle of pumpkin spice if desired.
This simple yet delicious recipe will elevate your breakfast game while embracing all those wonderful fall flavors!
How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast
Serving Pumpkin French Toast is a delightful experience that can be customized for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast or brunch.
Classic Serving
- Butter and Syrup: Spread with salted butter and drizzle generously with maple syrup for a traditional taste.
Seasonal Toppings
- Whipped Cream: Top with homemade or store-bought whipped cream for a light and fluffy addition.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for a sweet, indulgent flair.
Nutty Crunch
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Granola: Add a layer of granola on top for texture and a wholesome touch.
Fruit Enhancements
- Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to add a fresh burst of flavor.
- Sliced Bananas: Layer sliced bananas for extra sweetness and creaminess.
How to Perfect Pumpkin French Toast
Perfecting Pumpkin French Toast takes a few simple tips that will enhance your dish. Follow these guidelines to ensure your recipe turns out delicious every time.
- Use Thick Bread: Opt for thick slices of bread like brioche or challah; they soak up the custard better without falling apart.
- Preheat the Griddle: Make sure your griddle is hot enough before cooking; it helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Griddle: Cook in batches to prevent steaming; this ensures each slice gets properly cooked and crispy.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dipped bread to rest briefly after dipping; this helps the custard set in the bread.
- Experiment with Milk Alternatives: Try different types of milk (almond, oat, etc.) to find your preferred flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin French Toast
Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin French Toast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and complement the sweetness of the French toast.
- Turkey Sausage Links: A savory choice that pairs well with sweet dishes, offering heartiness without overpowering flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the toast.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy side that enhances your brunch spread.
- Crispy Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes bring a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft toast.
- Oven-Baked Apples: Warm spiced apples provide warmth and sweetness, making an excellent fall-themed pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Pumpkin French Toast turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.
- Over-soaking the bread: Dipping the bread too long can make it soggy. Quickly dip each slice and let excess custard drip off before cooking.
- Ignoring the griddle temperature: If the griddle is too hot or cold, the toast won’t cook evenly. Preheat your griddle to 350℉ (or 180℃) for best results.
- Using stale bread: Fresh, thick slices work best for a fluffy texture. If using stale bread, consider toasting it lightly first to enhance its structure.
- Skipping the spices: Pumpkin pie spice adds essential flavor. Don’t overlook this step; add it generously to create that warm autumn taste.
- Not keeping cooked French toast warm: If you cook in batches, keep the finished pieces warm in a low oven (200℉ or 90℃) while finishing the rest.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin French Toast in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pumpkin French Toast
- Freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
- Properly stored, they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Pumpkin French Toast
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-60 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pumpkin French Toast.
What type of bread works best for Pumpkin French Toast?
Thick slices of brioche, challah, or Texas toast are ideal as they hold up well and absorb the custard without falling apart.
Can I make Pumpkin French Toast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the bread slices ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
How do I customize my Pumpkin French Toast recipe?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the batter for extra flavor. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare and store portions in advance. Simply reheat as needed for a quick breakfast option.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
It’s better to use pure pumpkin puree since pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that may alter the recipe’s outcome.
Final Thoughts
Pumpkin French Toast is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different toppings or spices according to your preferences. Its warm flavors make it perfect for fall mornings, so give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Pumpkin French Toast
Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic breakfast with this Pumpkin French Toast recipe. The creamy pumpkin custard, infused with warm spices, captures the essence of fall and transforms your morning routine into a cozy experience. Ideal for holiday brunches or everyday breakfasts, this dish is quick to prepare and will impress family and friends alike. Whether you top it with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream, each bite delivers a burst of flavor that celebrates the season. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe serves four and can easily be doubled for larger groups.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- Nonstick spray (coconut oil or ghee oil)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 3/4 cup milk of choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 to 14 thick slices of bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast)
Instructions
- Preheat your griddle to 350°F (180°C) and grease with coconut oil.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Cook on the griddle for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven set at 200°F (90°C) until all are done.
- Serve hot topped with butter, maple syrup, powdered sugar, or seasonal toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Griddling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 100g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: Use thick slices of bread like brioche for optimal soaking without sogginess. Preheat your griddle properly for an even cook. Customize with nuts or fruit as desired.