Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast Recipe
This Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast recipe brings a festive twist to classic French toast by infusing it with warm pumpkin spice flavors. Perfect for cozy fall mornings, it features thick slices of brioche or challah soaked in a spiced pumpkin batter, cooked to golden perfection, and topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and crunchy nuts for an indulgent yet comforting start to your day.
- Author: zara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
French Toast Batter
- 4 slices of thick bread (like brioche or challah)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
For Cooking
- Butter or oil for cooking
Toppings and Serving
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)
- Dollop of whipped cream (optional)
- Crispy bacon or sausage (optional, for savory balance)
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, and milk. Whisk until smooth. Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, salt, and brown sugar if using. Whisk again thoroughly to combine. Let the batter rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the cooking surface: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter or oil to coat the surface evenly.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin batter, making sure to coat both sides well. Allow the bread to soak for a few seconds per side to absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Transfer the soaked bread slices onto the heated skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. Repeat this with all the bread slices, adding more butter or oil to the pan as necessary.
- Serve: Stack two slices on each plate. Drizzle generously with maple syrup and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired. Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top for texture.
- Add finishing touches: For a festive presentation, add a dollop of whipped cream atop the French toast. Serve with crispy bacon or sausage on the side to provide a savory compliment.
- Store leftovers: If you have any remaining pumpkin batter, refrigerate it tightly covered for up to 2 days. Stir well before reuse to recombine ingredients.
Notes
- Use thick bread like brioche or challah for the best texture that soaks up the batter without falling apart.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your preferred sweetness level or omit it for a less sweet dish.
- If you prefer dairy-free, use almond, soy, or oat milk as alternatives.
- Ensure the skillet is properly preheated to medium heat to avoid undercooked centers or burnt exteriors.
- For a crispier finish, cook slightly longer and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Leftover cooked French toast can be refrigerated and reheated gently in a skillet or oven.
Keywords: Pumpkin French Toast, Fall Breakfast, Pumpkin Spice French Toast, Festive Breakfast, Brioche French Toast, Autumn Recipes