There’s something about Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast that just feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. Fluffy slices of bread soaked in a pumpkin-spiced batter, cooked until golden, then topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and maybe a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s a bright, cozy way to welcome the flavors of fall right into your kitchen.
I love making this when the leaves start turning because it fills the house with the smell of pumpkin and spice—it’s the kind of breakfast that wakes you up with a smile. I usually add a little extra cinnamon in the batter because that warm spice mix is my favorite part, and it makes the whole meal feel extra special. Plus, it’s a fun twist on plain old French toast that kids and adults both tend to love.
My favorite way to serve Fall Pumpkin French Toast is with fresh fruit on the side and a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream if I’m feeling fancy. It’s the perfect weekend treat, especially when you have a bit of extra time to enjoy it slowly. I always remember making this with friends on crisp fall mornings—it feels like a simple recipe but packs a lot of happiness into every bite.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree adds great moisture and that fall flavor. If you can’t find canned pumpkin, pureed sweet potato or butternut squash work well too. Just avoid pumpkin pie filling, which is sweetened.
Spices: The cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves combo gives that classic pumpkin spice taste. If you prefer, store-bought pumpkin pie spice is an easy swap and works perfectly.
Bread: Thick slices like brioche or challah are ideal because they’re sturdy and soak up the batter without falling apart. If you don’t have those, Texas toast or challah works great, too.
Milk: Whole milk creates a rich batter, but you can use any milk you like—almond, oat, or soy milk all make fine dairy-free choices.
How Do You Get the Perfect Soak Without a Soggy French Toast?
Soaking is key to flavor and texture but too much can make the bread mushy. Here’s how to soak just right:
- Dip each bread slice in the batter for about 20-30 seconds per side, letting it absorb but not drown in the mixture.
- Make sure your bread is a bit stale or day-old. Fresh bread soaks too quickly and can fall apart.
- Hold the slice upright after dipping to let extra batter drip off before cooking.
This method helps you get that tender, flavorful inside while keeping the outside crisp and golden when cooked. Adjust soaking time slightly if your bread is thicker or thinner.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I use this to whisk together the batter; it’s perfect for combining all the ingredients easily.
- Whisk – keeps the batter smooth and helps incorporate the spices evenly.
- Skillet or griddle – a non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking and easy flipping.
- Spatula – helps turn the French toast without breaking it apart.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredients, especially the spices and liquids.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Different bread: Try croissants or Texas toast for even richer or heartier textures.
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of bourbon or apple brandy to the batter for a deeper taste.
- Mix-ins: Fold in chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or dried cranberries into the batter or topping for added texture.
- Healthy twist: Incorporate ground flaxseed or chia seeds into the batter for extra fiber and nutrients.
Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Batter:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
- ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
For the Toast & Serving:
- 8 slices thick bread (brioche or challah preferred)
- Butter or oil, for cooking
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Butter, for serving
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh fruit (such as strawberries, blueberries, bananas), for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare your batter and soak the bread, then another 15 minutes to cook the French toast, making the total time around 25 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Pumpkin Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Then, add cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and a pinch of salt, whisking again so the spices mix evenly.
2. Prepare for Cooking:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface. This will help prevent sticking and give a nice golden crust.
3. Soak the Bread Slices:
Dip each slice of thick bread into the pumpkin mixture, letting it soak for about 20 to 30 seconds on each side. This gives enough time for the bread to absorb the flavors but not so long that it falls apart.
4. Cook the French Toast:
Place the soaked bread slices on the warmed skillet or griddle. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed so the toast cooks evenly without burning.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the cooked French toast onto a serving plate. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish. Serve the toast topped with a pat of butter, a drizzle of maple syrup, and fresh fruit on the side for a colorful, delicious meal.
Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin Puree for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the pumpkin puree is fully thawed and well mixed before using. Shake or stir it if it has separated during freezing to get a smooth consistency.
What’s the Best Bread to Use for Pumpkin French Toast?
Thick, sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast works best because it soaks up the batter without falling apart. Day-old or slightly stale bread is ideal for soaking without becoming mushy.
Can I Make Pumpkin French Toast Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the batter and soak the bread slices ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated for up to an hour before cooking. However, it’s best to cook the toast fresh for the best texture and flavor.
How Should I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to keep it crispy, or warm gently in a skillet. Microwaving may make it a bit soggy.
