This Pumpkin French Toast is a cozy breakfast treat! Soft bread is soaked in a delicious pumpkin mix and cooked till golden. The brown sugar and cinnamon butter on top make it extra special.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a warm, spiced morning bite? I serve it with fresh fruit or a drizzle of syrup. It’s like a hug on a plate, perfect for chilly days! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The base of any French toast! They help bind the ingredients together. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer.
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich flavor, but you can use any milk you prefer—almond, oat, or soy milk work well too! Just skip the sweeteners in plant-based options if you’re looking to cut calories.
Pumpkin Puree: Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling, for the best flavor. If you don’t have pumpkin puree, you can substitute with applesauce or mashed banana, though the flavor will change a bit.
Bread: I love using brioche for its soft texture, but challah or any thick-sliced bread can work too. For a healthier option, whole grain or gluten-free bread can be great substitutes.
Cinnamon Butter: This sweet topping is a flavor powerhouse! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought cinnamon spread instead. Add a bit of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My French Toast?
The key to a delicious and well-cooked French toast lies in how you soak the bread. You want it saturated enough to absorb the flavors but not so much that it falls apart.
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.
- Soak each slice for about 20 seconds on each side. This allows the bread to soak up the liquid without becoming too soggy.
- Cook the bread on medium heat to create a golden crust without burning. If it’s browning too quickly, reduce the heat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed, so each piece has room to brown well.
Enjoy making this cozy, delicious breakfast! It’s a great way to start your day, especially when the weather turns cooler.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 8 slices thick bread (brioche or challah preferred)
- Butter or oil for cooking
For the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking, totaling about 30 minutes. You’ll have a warm and delicious breakfast ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Mixture:
In a large shallow mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth mixture.
2. Prepare the Skillet:
Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
3. Soak the Bread:
Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin-egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20 seconds on each side. You want the bread to absorb the flavor without falling apart.
4. Cook the French Toast:
Carefully place the soaked bread slices onto the preheated skillet. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
5. Make the Cinnamon Butter:
While the French toast is cooking, prepare the brown sugar cinnamon butter. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until it’s smooth and creamy.
6. Serve it Up:
Once all slices are cooked, stack the warm pumpkin French toast on plates. Top each stack with a large dollop of the brown sugar cinnamon butter. For added sweetness, drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
7. Enjoy:
Dig into your delicious pumpkin French toast while it’s still warm—perfect for that cozy morning vibe!
This pumpkin French toast is a wonderful treat for autumn mornings, bursting with flavor and topped with sweet brown sugar cinnamon butter. Enjoy each delicious bite!
Can I Use Pumpkin Pie Filling Instead of Pumpkin Puree?
No, it’s best to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that might alter the flavor of your French toast. Always check the label to avoid confusion!
Can I Make This French Toast Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just soak and cook the bread fresh in the morning for the best texture and flavor!
What Type of Bread Works Best for French Toast?
Bread that’s thick and slightly stale works best. Brioche and challah are perfect choices for their rich texture, but feel free to use any thick bread like sourdough or whole grain as well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the toaster or on a skillet until warmed through. You can also freeze it for longer storage and reheat in a toaster oven for a crispy texture!