Pumpkin Spice French Toast—an easy, extra-delicious recipe perfect for cozy fall mornings and sure to please a crowd.
If you love pumpkin flavors, try the Buttermilk Pumpkin Spice Waffles next.
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Starting the day with pumpkin spice french toast is a delightful way to welcome the season. It’s warm, comforting, and full of fall flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice French Toast
- Simple to prepare
- Rich, layered pumpkin flavor
- Perfect for sharing
Type of Bread to Use for French Toast
- Challah: Excellent for thick slices and holds the custard well.
- Brioche: Another decadent option that soaks up the mixture beautifully.
Ingredients to Make Pumpkin Spice French Toast
- Challah or brioche loaf, sliced into 1¼-inch pieces
- 4 eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1½ tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Avocado oil or a neutral oil spray
What to Pair with Pumpkin Spice French Toast
- Maple syrup: Grade A amber syrup adds a rich, balanced sweetness.
- Whipped mascarpone: Silky and slightly tangy—an indulgent topping that elevates the dish.
Bonus: Whipped Mascarpone
For an elevated finish, top the French toast with whipped mascarpone. It takes under five minutes and uses just three ingredients for a creamy, luxurious complement.
If using whipped mascarpone, prepare it while the French toast is cooking so it’s ready to serve.
How to Make Whipped Mascarpone
In a food processor or with a hand mixer, combine heavy cream, mascarpone, and sugar. Blend on high until light and fluffy. Chill until ready to serve.
Pumpkin Pie Spice: Your Secret Weapon
Pumpkin pie spice is the backbone of this recipe: a small blend of warm spices that unlocks the classic fall profile. Making your own blend is quick and economical if you prefer homemade spice mixes.
Tips and Tricks
- Whisk thoroughly: Beat the eggs and liquids well so no visible egg whites remain.
- Use butter + oil: Cook with a small amount of butter plus an oil spray to get buttery flavor without burning.
- Slice thick: 1¼-inch slices prevent the toast from becoming flimsy.
- Soak adequately: Soak each side of thick slices about 4 minutes to allow the custard to penetrate.
- Preheat the skillet: A hot cast-iron pan prevents the egg mixture from pooling and ensures even browning.
Special Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- 11×8 baking dish
- Food processor (for whipped mascarpone, optional)
Looking for More Pumpkin Recipes?
Try other pumpkin-spiced favorites that pair well with this French toast.
- Homemade Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer
- Buttermilk Pumpkin Spice Waffles with Whipped Mascarpone
- Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
Loving this Pumpkin Spice French Toast Recipe!
If you make this recipe, leave a comment and share your photos on social media. Enjoy this cozy, flavorful breakfast and happy cooking!
Pumpkin Spice French Toast
Ingredients
- 4 eggs
- ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- 1½ tablespoon packed brown sugar
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 loaf challah bread cut into 1¼ inch slices
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Avocado oil (or neutral oil) spray
Whipped Mascarpone
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup mascarpone
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
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In an 11×8 baking dish, whisk the eggs until no visible egg whites remain.
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Add pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, salt, and brown sugar. Whisk until combined.
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Stir in whole milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Dip challah slices into the custard. Set a timer for 4 minutes and press slices down after the first minute to help the mixture soak in.
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After 4 minutes, flip each slice and let it soak for an additional 4 minutes. Preheat a cast-iron skillet while the bread soaks.
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When the skillet is hot, add ½ tablespoon butter and spray with avocado oil. Once the butter melts and the pan is hot, add the soaked slices. Cook 4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
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Serve immediately with whipped mascarpone (optional), a dusting of pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup.
Did you make this recipe?
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