Pumpkin Pie French Toast Recipe

If you’re searching for a sweet autumn-inspired indulgence, Pumpkin Pie French Toast is pure breakfast magic waiting to happen. Imagine thick, pillowy slices of bread bathed in a luscious pumpkin custard, sizzling on the skillet until golden, then served piping hot under a cloud of whipped cream and a trickle of maple syrup. This recipe transforms an ordinary morning into a cozy celebration, using classic pumpkin pie flavors to create a dish that’s every bit as decadent as it sounds — without the fuss of making an actual pie!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Pumpkin Pie French Toast is how every ingredient has a special role, from lending rich autumnal flavor to achieving that perfectly crisp edge. Gather these simple pantry staples and watch them turn into something that’s truly unforgettable.

• Eggs: The backbone of your custard, they bind everything together and create that wonderfully creamy texture.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and helps your custard base soak right into the bread for maximum flavor.
• Pumpkin puree: Use canned for ease, and make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for pure autumn goodness.
• Brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and adds caramel notes that echo traditional pumpkin pie.
• Vanilla extract: A must for warmth and depth — it’s the secret behind that bakery aroma.
• Ground cinnamon: Main character energy! Provides that unmistakable pumpkin pie spice profile.
• Ground nutmeg: A little goes a long way to round out the spice mixture with a subtle earthy note.
• Ground ginger: Adds gentle heat and brightens the flavors — don’t skip it.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance and enhance the sweetness of the custard.
• Bread (thick-cut, like brioche or challah): Thick slices soak up the pumpkin goodness while staying tender inside and crisp on the outside.
• Butter or oil for cooking: Butter gives unbeatable flavor, but oil works great too for a crispier finish.
• Powdered sugar (optional): For a touch of elegance and an irresistible finish.
• Maple syrup (for serving): There’s nothing cozier than a drizzle of real maple syrup over your warm French toast.
• Whipped cream (optional): For the ultimate Pumpkin Pie French Toast experience, add a generous dollop on top.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie French Toast

Step 1: Whisk Together the Pumpkin Custard

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs, pour in the milk, and add your canned pumpkin puree. Sprinkle in the brown sugar, followed by vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and all the spices are evenly combined. This step is where that unmistakable pumpkin pie aroma will fill your kitchen and set the tone for the rest of your delicious journey.

Step 2: Prep Your Bread

Choose thick-cut slices of brioche or challah — their sturdy crumb is perfect for soaking up the custard without falling apart. Lay your bread out and have it ready, as you’ll want to dip and cook fairly quickly for the best texture.

Step 3: Soak the Slices

Working one or two pieces at a time, dunk each bread slice into the pumpkin mixture. Let them sit for a few seconds on each side so they drink up enough custard, but don’t linger so long that the bread breaks down. Shake off any excess and get ready to cook!

Step 4: Sizzle on the Skillet

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small pat of butter, or add a swirl of oil. Once it’s hot, place your dipped slices in the pan. Let each side cook for 2 to 3 minutes, watching for a deep golden color and slightly crispy edges. Adjust the heat as needed — you want toasted, not burned!

Step 5: Serve Warm and Finish

Once all your Pumpkin Pie French Toast slices are cooked and your kitchen smells like a bakery in October, plate them up right away. You’re ready for toppings, garnishes, and that first magical bite.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie French Toast

Garnishes

The finishing touches take Pumpkin Pie French Toast from beautiful to breathtaking. Dust with a snow of powdered sugar, swirl a billowing scoop of whipped cream on top, and don’t forget that all-important maple syrup for a glossy, sweet finish. If you’re feeling extra, a light sprinkle of cinnamon or even some crushed pecans gives another wonderful layer of flavor and crunch.

Side Dishes

Pairing Pumpkin Pie French Toast with the right sides makes breakfast (or brunch!) a full-on feast. Try a bowl of fresh fruit, crispy bacon, or savory breakfast sausage for balance. If you want something lighter, a tangy Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey cuts through the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you really want to impress, make a stack of Pumpkin Pie French Toast and layer it with whipped cream and thinly sliced apples for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece. Or, cut your slices into sticks before dipping and frying — perfect for dunking in syrup, especially for little ones. You could even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and serve as a decadent dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Pumpkin Pie French Toast, lucky you! Simply let the slices cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can relive that autumn coziness in just a few minutes, any time you please.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked and cooled French toast slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container with parchment between layers. They’ll last up to two months and are a total lifesaver for busy mornings or holiday entertaining.

Reheating

For the very best texture, reheat Pumpkin Pie French Toast in the toaster oven or a regular oven at 350°F for about 8 to 10 minutes until heated through and just crisp. The microwave works in a pinch, but the edges stay crisper with dry heat. Top as desired after reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Pie French Toast with gluten-free bread?

Absolutely! Choose your favorite sturdy gluten-free loaf (the thicker, the better), and just be gentle when soaking — the custard might make gluten-free bread a little softer, so reduce the soak time if needed.

What’s the best type of bread to use?

Brioche and challah work beautifully thanks to their soft, rich texture and ability to hold up to all that custard. Texas toast or French bread are good options too, as long as they’re sliced thickly so you get that perfect contrast between a crisp exterior and custardy middle.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works great! Just make sure it’s well-drained and not too watery. Homemade puree can sometimes have a bit more moisture than canned, so dab off any excess liquid for best results.

Is it possible to make Pumpkin Pie French Toast dairy-free?

You sure can. Swap in your favorite plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy), and use oil or plant-based butter for cooking. Whipped coconut cream makes a dreamy dairy-free topping.

Can this be made in advance for a crowd?

Definitely! You can prepare the custard and soak the bread slices in advance — even arrange them in a baking dish and bake as a casserole for a hands-off brunch option. Reheat as needed and keep warm in the oven until serving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a little extra comfort or want to dazzle friends and family with something memorable, give Pumpkin Pie French Toast a try! It’s the kind of breakfast that always gets smiles and seconds, and with these easy steps, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat every fall — and beyond. Enjoy every decadent bite!