Pumpkin French Toast Casserole: Easy Fall Breakfast Recipe

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is the ultimate way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a comforting and easy breakfast. With a combination of pumpkin puree, spiced cinnamon, and a rich custard base, this casserole is baked until golden and served warm for a deliciously cozy start to your day. Perfect for fall mornings, holiday brunches, or any time you crave a seasonal treat, this casserole combines the best of French toast and pumpkin spice into one decadent dish.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Whether you’re hosting a holiday breakfast or simply want a special weekend treat, this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is your answer. The casserole is easy to make, can be prepared the night before, and is baked in the morning for a warm, satisfying breakfast that the whole family will love. It’s both comforting and indulgent, offering the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and crunch.

Ingredients for Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

• Sourdough Bread: Adds a slightly tangy flavor and sturdy texture that holds up well in the casserole.
• Pumpkin Puree: Gives the casserole its signature flavor and rich, creamy texture.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and create a rich custard base.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess to the custard and softens the bread.
• Brown Sugar: Sweetens the casserole with a hint of molasses flavor.

• Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the pumpkin and enhances the dish’s fall flavors.
• Nutmeg: Adds a cozy depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps the casserole bake to a golden brown.
• Streusel Topping: A crunchy topping made with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon that provides a sweet and crispy finish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you want to customize your Pumpkin French Toast Casserole or need to accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some great alternatives:

• Gluten-Free Bread: Use a gluten-free bread option to make the casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Non-Dairy Milk: Swap out whole milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk to make the dish dairy-free.
• Maple Syrup: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a more natural sweetness and added flavor.
• Vegan Butter: Use vegan butter to make the recipe dairy-free and plant-based.
• Chia Seeds or Flax Eggs: These can replace regular eggs for a vegan-friendly version of this casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Cut sourdough bread into cubes and place them in a buttered baking dish. This will form the base of your casserole.
2. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. This will create the custard mixture that soaks into the bread.
3. Pour the Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring that all the bread is well-coated.
4. Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This step allows the bread to soak up the custard, making the casserole rich and flavorful.
5. Prepare the Streusel: In a small bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon to create a streusel topping. Set aside.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and top with the streusel mixture. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs beautifully with maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

• Don’t skip the overnight chill: Allowing the casserole to sit overnight ensures the bread soaks up all the custard, resulting in a creamier texture and more intense flavor.
• Test doneness: To make sure the casserole is done, insert a knife into the center. It should come out clean when it’s ready.
• Add a flavor twist: Try adding a handful of chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the custard mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Storing leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a treat on its own, here are some great ideas for sides and variations:

• Pair with Bacon or Sausage: Serve the casserole with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast to the sweet dish.
• Toppings: Drizzle with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for extra decadence.
• Vegan Version: As mentioned earlier, you can make this casserole vegan by swapping out dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the custard for a subtle spicy kick.

The Perfect Fall Breakfast

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is an ideal breakfast for chilly fall mornings or holiday gatherings. The warm spices and creamy pumpkin flavor make it a seasonal favorite, while the convenience of making it ahead of time ensures you have more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast treat, a festive brunch dish, or just a way to enjoy the flavors of autumn, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your fall recipe repertoire.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a heartwarming dish that brings the comforting flavors of fall to your breakfast table. It’s easy to make, especially with the option to prepare it overnight, and its creamy texture combined with the warm spices makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday brunch or enjoying it as a weekend treat, this casserole is sure to delight everyone who tries it. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s quickly becoming a seasonal favorite!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Creamy Broccoli Potato Cheese Soup: This comforting soup combines creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and hearty broccoli, making it a perfect side or light meal to complement the fall flavors of pumpkin casserole.
• Spinach Florentine Breakfast Casserole: A savory casserole filled with spinach, eggs, and cheese, this recipe is a great alternative to pumpkin French toast casserole, offering a healthy, satisfying breakfast with a rich and creamy texture.
• Easy Breakfast Enchiladas: These breakfast enchiladas are a great way to enjoy a hearty morning meal, similar to casseroles, with a flavorful, cheesy, and slightly spicy kick that pairs well with the comforting sweetness of the pumpkin casserole.

Print