There’s something magical about a crisp autumn morning, the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin filling the kitchen, and a warm plate of Pumpkin Pie Spice French Toast waiting to be devoured. This seasonal twist on a classic breakfast favorite takes ordinary French toast and infuses it with the comforting warmth of pumpkin pie spices. Lightly crisp on the outside, tender inside, and beautifully spiced, this easy recipe brings cozy café vibes right to your home.
Table of Contents
Pumpkin Pie Spice French Toast Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings (8 slices)
Calories: 220 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk (any kind)
- ¼ cup pumpkin purée
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 8 slices brioche or challah bread (preferably day-old)
- Butter or oil for cooking
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar dusting
Instructions
- Whisk custard: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth.
- Preheat skillet: Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil.
- Dip bread: Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture for about 5 seconds per side, letting excess drip off.
- Cook: Place dipped bread on skillet and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges.
- Serve: Stack warm slices and top with maple syrup, whipped cream, or your favorite toppings. Serve immediately.
Substitutions & Dietary Swaps
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk and cook with coconut oil.
- Gluten-Free: Use thick slices of gluten-free brioche or sandwich bread.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with ½ cup of Just Egg or whisked silken tofu, and use plant-based milk.
- Lower Sugar: Omit brown sugar and use a dash of stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
- No Pumpkin Pie Spice? Mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Use slightly stale bread, it absorbs custard better without becoming soggy.
- For ultra-fluffy slices, use brioche or challah bread about ¾-inch thick.
- Cook over medium heat; too high and it will brown before the inside sets.
- Keep finished slices warm in a 200°F oven while you cook the rest.
- Add a pat of butter on top of each slice before serving for extra richness.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
This Pumpkin Pie Spice French Toast can be made ahead for busy mornings! Store cooked slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster, air fryer, or oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until crisp and warm.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Soggy French toast? Bread soaked too long, dip briefly and let excess custard drip off.
- Dry inside? Bread may have been too thick or overcooked; adjust timing for your loaf.
- Bland flavor? Add more pumpkin spice or a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness.
- Uneven browning? Make sure the skillet is evenly heated and greased lightly.
Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions
This Pumpkin Pie Spice French Toast pairs perfectly with a cappuccino, chai latte, or hot apple cider. For a full fall brunch, serve with bacon or breakfast sausage and fresh fruit. A drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce turns it into a decadent dessert-style breakfast.
Pairing Recipes From Our Website
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread? Yes, but it may be thinner, just dip for a shorter time to prevent sogginess. Can I make it without pumpkin purée? Absolutely! You can skip it and increase milk slightly for a lighter flavor. What’s the best bread for French toast? Brioche and challah are the best for soaking custard and staying fluffy. Can I bake it instead of frying? Yes! Lay dipped slices on a parchment-lined tray and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! prep the custard and refrigerate overnight. Stir before using. How can I make it extra fancy? Top with caramel drizzle, candied pecans, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
Conclusion
Cozy, aromatic, and absolutely delicious, Pumpkin Pie Spice French Toast is the breakfast you’ll crave all season long. Each bite tastes like a forkful of pumpkin pie, wrapped in the comfort of golden, buttery toast. Easy enough for weekdays but special enough for weekend brunch, this recipe captures the essence of fall on a plate.
For more cooking safety and storage information, visit the USDA Food Safety or FDA Food Guidance.