There’s nothing quite like waking up to the warm, spiced aroma of Pumpkin French Toast on a crisp autumn morning. This cozy, comforting breakfast takes traditional French toast to the next level with the rich flavor of pumpkin puree and a fragrant blend of pumpkin pie spices. Whether you’re hosting brunch or craving something seasonal and satisfying, this recipe is not only easy and quick but also vegan-friendly with a gluten-free option — making it perfect for everyone at the table.
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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin French Toast Recipe
If you’re a pumpkin spice lover, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s:
- Quick and Easy: Made with just six basic ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the seasonal twist.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free Optional: Customize with dairy-free and gluten-free alternatives.
- Full of Flavor: Packed with warming spices and natural sweetness.
- Minimal Mess: Simple prep and cleanup make this ideal for busy mornings.
This Pumpkin French Toast is everything we love about fall mornings — cozy, flavorful, and effortlessly festive.
What You’ll Need to Make Pumpkin French Toast
The ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples with a seasonal twist. Here’s what makes each component special:
- Pumpkin Puree: Delivers rich flavor and creamy texture, plus it’s packed with fiber and vitamin A.
- Yogurt (or Eggs): Adds moisture and binding. Use dairy-free yogurt or eggs depending on your dietary preference.
- Oat, Almond, or Regular Milk: Helps create the custard base and softens the bread.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the warmth and depth of the spices.
- Pumpkin Pie Spices: A cozy mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that defines this dish.
- Maple Syrup (Optional): For a touch of natural sweetness in the custard.
- Bread (Regular or Gluten-Free): The vehicle for soaking up all the pumpkin goodness. Choose thick, sturdy slices.
- Butter or Vegan Butter for Frying: Ensures a crispy, golden exterior.
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
- Cinnamon: Sweet and warming
- Nutmeg: Adds a nutty depth
- Ginger: Gives a gentle heat and earthiness
- Cloves: Intensifies the aromatic spice profile
Smart Swaps for Different Diets or Pantries
Not everyone has the exact ingredients on hand, and that’s okay! Here are some simple substitutions to make this recipe even more flexible:
- Pumpkin Substitute: Use mashed sweet potato or ripe banana for a similar texture and sweetness.
- Yogurt Swap: Applesauce or silken tofu can work if you’re avoiding both dairy and eggs.
- Milk Options: Coconut milk gives a richer taste; soy milk boosts protein.
- Bread Choice: Challah, sourdough, or even day-old sandwich bread all work. Use gluten-free if needed.
- Spice Mix Shortcut: Use store-bought pumpkin spice if you’re short on time.
These swaps ensure your Pumpkin French Toast stays delicious no matter what’s in your kitchen.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Step-by-Step
- Make the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, yogurt (or eggs), milk, pumpkin pie spices, vanilla, and maple syrup if using.
- Preheat the Skillet: Heat 1–2 teaspoons of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s evenly coated and sizzling.
- Soak the Bread: Dip 2–3 slices of bread into the pumpkin mixture, letting them soak slightly for maximum flavor.
- Fry the French Toast: Place the soaked bread in the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Repeat and Serve: Continue until all the bread and custard are used. Serve warm, topped with cinnamon, powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Pro Tip: For an extra-rich bite, let the bread soak longer and use thicker slices like brioche or Texas toast.
Essential Tips & Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin French Toast
- Don’t Over-Soak: A quick dip is enough unless you’re using thick or stale bread.
- Even Coating Matters: Whisk the custard well to avoid spice clumps.
- Check the Heat: Medium heat prevents burning while allowing the bread to cook through.
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly dry bread soaks up the custard better without falling apart.
- Batch Cook Smart: Keep finished slices warm in the oven at 200°F while cooking the rest.
This ensures every slice of Pumpkin French Toast is crispy outside, fluffy inside, and bursting with fall flavor.
Serving Suggestions & Delicious Variations
Elevate your breakfast with these tasty ideas:
- Top with Whipped Cream: Vegan coconut whip or dairy cream adds indulgence.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, walnuts, or granola.
- Drizzle with Sauces: Try caramel sauce, almond butter, or even chocolate drizzle.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne to the custard for a spicy kick.
- For Dessert: Serve with vanilla ice cream and toasted pecans as a fall-inspired sweet treat.
Storage Tip: Leftovers keep well! Store in the fridge for 2–3 days or freeze in layers for up to 1 month. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet.
A Seasonal Favorite That’s Good for You, Too
Pumpkin is more than a trend — it’s packed with nutrients like beta-carotene and fiber, making this French toast not only cozy but nourishing. Its naturally sweet, earthy flavor pairs beautifully with warm spices, making it a must-have breakfast throughout the fall season.
You can serve this dish on Thanksgiving morning, at fall brunch parties, or anytime you want a comforting, festive treat. The vibrant orange hue also makes it visually stunning on any breakfast table.
Wrapping It Up: Pumpkin French Toast That Feels Like Fall
From its golden crust to its warm spiced center, Pumpkin French Toast is the kind of breakfast that brings everyone to the table with a smile. Whether you’re planning a cozy fall brunch, a holiday morning treat, or just want a new way to enjoy your favorite seasonal flavors, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create something that’s not only delicious but adaptable to your dietary needs and pantry staples.
So go ahead — dust off your skillet, grab that can of pumpkin puree, and make breakfast something to truly look forward to this season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin French Toast
1. Can I make Pumpkin French Toast ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the custard mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The cooked French toast also reheats well. Store slices in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to keep them crispy.
2. What type of bread works best for Pumpkin French Toast?
Thick-cut, sturdy bread like brioche, sourdough, or Texas toast works best because it holds up well when soaked in the custard. Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs more of the pumpkin mixture without falling apart.
3. How do I make this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free?
Use gluten-free bread and opt for non-dairy milk like oat or almond milk. For dairy-free yogurt, coconut or soy-based yogurt works well. You can also replace yogurt with mashed banana or applesauce for a different spin.
More Relevant Recipes
- Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: These moist and flavorful muffins combine the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin with the tart sweetness of apples, topped with a buttery streusel. Perfect for fall breakfasts, they offer a similar seasonal warmth to Pumpkin French Toast.
- Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze: A sweet, spiced pumpkin bread drizzled with luscious maple glaze that echoes the cozy, comforting flavors of Pumpkin French Toast. Ideal for brunch or as a make-ahead treat.
- Bakery Style Pumpkin Muffins: Tall, soft, and loaded with pumpkin spice flavor, these bakery-style muffins are a wonderful complement to your fall breakfast spread. They share the same spiced appeal and seasonal charm as the original French toast recipe.
Pumpkin French Toast
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 slices
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This cozy Pumpkin French Toast recipe is the ultimate fall breakfast treat. Made with a rich pumpkin custard infused with warm spices, it’s vegan-friendly and can be made gluten-free. Perfect for chilly mornings or festive brunches, this dish is crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with seasonal flavor.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree: adds flavor, moisture, and seasonal richness
- 1/4 cup regular or non-dairy yogurt (or 2 eggs): helps bind and enrich the custard
- 1 cup unsweetened oat or almond milk (or regular milk): creates a creamy base for soaking
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances the sweetness and spice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spices: brings warmth and autumnal aroma
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional): adds subtle sweetness
- 1 loaf regular or gluten-free bread (approx. 16 slices): base for French toast
- 1–2 teaspoons vegan or regular butter (for frying): for crisp, golden-brown edges
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, yogurt or eggs, milk, pumpkin pie spices, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (if using).
- Heat 1–2 teaspoons of butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat until sizzling and evenly melted.
- Dip 2–3 slices of bread into the pumpkin custard mixture, allowing them to soak briefly but fully.
- Transfer the soaked slices to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
- Serve warm with toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- Day-old or slightly stale bread works best for absorbing the custard without falling apart.
- Thick slices like brioche or sourdough enhance texture and soak up more flavor.
- To make it gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free bread.
- To make it vegan, use plant-based milk and yogurt, and skip eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 131 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 224mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0.5mg