Pumpkin Bread French Toast
Transform leftover pumpkin bread into a spectacular breakfast! Thick slices are soaked in a warmly spiced custard and pan-fried to golden perfection. A cozy, decadent way to start any autumn morning.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the custard
- a.In a shallow dish or pie plate, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, pumpkin purée, and vanilla extract until smooth and no streaks of egg remain. Whisk in the ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- 2
Soak the bread slices
- a.Working one at a time, gently place a slice of pumpkin bread into the custard mixture. Let it soak for about 15-20 seconds per side. Since pumpkin bread is moist, avoid over-soaking to prevent it from falling apart. Place the soaked slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- 3
Cook the French toast
- a.Place a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter, swirling to coat the pan. Carefully place 2-3 slices of soaked bread in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd it.
- 4
Fry until golden
- a.Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the French toast is golden brown, slightly crisp on the edges, and the center is cooked through. Transfer the cooked slices to a plate and keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven.
- 5
Repeat and serve
- a.Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel if needed, and repeat the cooking process with the remaining butter and bread slices. Serve immediately, topped with warm maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and toasted pecans.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use day-old or slightly stale pumpkin bread. It's drier and will absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
- 2Cut your bread into thick, 1-inch slices. This helps maintain its structure during soaking and cooking.
- 3Medium heat is your friend. Too high, and the outside will burn before the egg custard in the center is cooked. Too low, and the toast will be soggy.
- 4Don't press down on the French toast with your spatula while it's cooking. This can squeeze out the custard and make it dense.
- 5For the best flavor, use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, which is already sweetened and spiced.
Adapt it for your goals.
Dairy-Free
Use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk in the custard and fry the French toast in coconut oil or vegan butter.
Extra DecadentExtra Decadent
Substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the milk to create an even richer, more custardy French toast.
Stuffed French ToastStuffed French Toast
Spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese or mascarpone between two thinner slices of pumpkin bread before soaking and frying.
Different ToppingsDifferent Toppings
Get creative with toppings like a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, candied ginger, or fresh apple slices.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
The pumpkin purée is an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for healthy vision, immune function, and skin health.
Provides Quality Protein
Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs. Protein helps with muscle repair, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, keeping you satisfied longer.
Source of Comforting Spices
Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg not only provide a warm, autumnal flavor but also contain antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions
This dish is best considered an indulgent treat. While pumpkin offers some nutrients like Vitamin A, the dish is high in carbohydrates, sugar, and fat from the bread, butter, and syrup. It's perfect for a special occasion breakfast or brunch, but should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.