Imagine waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin spice filling your kitchen, promising a breakfast that feels like a cozy hug. Each bite of this Pumpkin Spice French Toast is a symphony of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet pumpkin, coating perfectly golden slices of bread. Trust me, friend, this is about to become your new favorite fall indulgence!
What You’ll Need: The Ingredients for Pumpkin Perfection

For the French Toast Batter:
- Eggs: 2 large
- Pumpkin Puree: ½ cup (not pumpkin pie filling!)
- Milk: ½ cup (dairy or non-dairy works great)
- Heavy Cream: ¼ cup (for extra richness, optional)
- Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 2 teaspoons
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
For the French Toast:
- Bread: 6-8 slices (Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast are fantastic choices)
- Butter: For greasing the griddle or pan
Optional Toppings:
- Maple Syrup: The classic choice!
- Powdered Sugar: For a touch of sweetness
- Whipped Cream: Homemade or store-bought
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: For added crunch
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle for extra spice
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whisk the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream (if using), granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of pumpkin puree. I like to use a whisk for this to really get everything incorporated smoothly.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Lay out your bread slices. If your bread is very thick, you might consider gently pressing it down a bit with a rolling pin to help it soak up the batter more evenly.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
- Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin spice batter, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Let the bread soak for about 15-20 seconds per side. Don’t over-soak, or your French toast will be soggy! This is a crucial step for getting that delicious pumpkin flavor infused into every bite.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
- Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Melt a pat of butter on the hot surface for each batch of French toast. The butter adds flavor and helps the French toast turn golden brown.
- Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot griddle or skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on the heat; you want the French toast to cook evenly without burning. If it’s browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve your Pumpkin Spice French Toast immediately with your favorite toppings. Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, and chopped nuts are all fantastic options. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon adds a lovely finishing touch.
Pro Tips and Troubleshooting: Your Secret Weapons
- Bread Choice Matters: As I mentioned earlier, Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast are ideal because they are sturdy and absorb the batter well. However, you can use any bread you like. Just adjust the soaking time accordingly. Stale bread actually works best, as it absorbs the batter more readily.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the French toast in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure that each slice cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Soggy French Toast SOS: If your French toast is turning out soggy, it’s likely because you’re either over-soaking the bread or not cooking it at a high enough temperature. Reduce the soaking time and make sure your griddle or skillet is hot enough.
- Spice It Up (or Down): Feel free to adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your liking. If you prefer a more subtle pumpkin flavor, reduce the amount of spice. If you want a bolder flavor, add a little more. You could even add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for extra warmth.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before using. This is a great time-saver if you’re making French toast for a crowd.
Level Up Your Breakfast: Creative Variations
- Stuffed French Toast: For an extra decadent treat, try stuffing your Pumpkin Spice French Toast with cream cheese filling. Simply spread a mixture of softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla extract between two slices of bread before dipping them in the batter.
- Baked French Toast Casserole: Transform this recipe into a crowd-pleasing baked French toast casserole. Arrange the soaked bread slices in a baking dish, pour any remaining batter over the top, and bake until golden brown and set.
- Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks: Cut the bread into sticks before soaking and cooking for fun and easy-to-eat French toast sticks that kids (and adults!) will love.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey twist on this fall favorite.
Complement Your Toast: Perfect Pairings
Pumpkin Spice French Toast is amazing on its own, but it’s even better when paired with complementary dishes. Consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast. A side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, adds a touch of sweetness and freshness. And of course, don’t forget the coffee or tea! A warm cup of coffee with a splash of cream is the perfect accompaniment to this cozy breakfast.
While you’re in a pumpkin-y mood, why not try whipping up a batch of Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins for a grab-and-go treat? Or, for a savory snack, consider the Pumpkin Whipped Feta Dip. If you’re wanting a Starbucks copycat, try the Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins recipe. You might also enjoy making Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins or even Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins. For something a little different, Apple Pumpkin Muffin Perfection could be just the thing.
Why This Recipe Works: The Science of Deliciousness
This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about understanding how those ingredients work together to create the perfect Pumpkin Spice French Toast. The eggs provide structure and richness, while the milk and cream add moisture and tenderness. The pumpkin puree contributes flavor and a slight sweetness, and the pumpkin pie spice brings that quintessential fall warmth. The soaking process allows the bread to absorb the batter, resulting in a moist and flavorful interior. And the butter in the pan creates a golden-brown crust that is both crispy and delicious.
Bringing Fall to Your Table: A Recipe for Memories
More than just a recipe, this Pumpkin Spice French Toast is a way to bring the warmth and comfort of fall into your home. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend breakfast, it’s a dish that is sure to create lasting memories. So gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of autumn in every bite. You’ve got this, my friend! Happy cooking!
What type of bread is best to use for Pumpkin Spice French Toast?
Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast are fantastic choices because they are sturdy and absorb the batter well. Stale bread also works best.
What can I do if my French toast is turning out soggy?
If your French toast is soggy, reduce the soaking time and make sure your griddle or skillet is hot enough.
Can I prepare the French toast batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before using.
What are some variations I can make to the Pumpkin Spice French Toast?
You can try stuffing it with cream cheese filling, transform the recipe into a baked French toast casserole, cut the bread into sticks, or add chocolate chips to the batter.

Perfect Pumpkin Spice French Toast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream (if using), granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of pumpkin puree.
- Lay out your bread slices. If your bread is very thick, you might consider gently pressing it down a bit with a rolling pin to help it soak up the batter more evenly.
- Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin spice batter, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Let the bread soak for about 15-20 seconds per side. Don’t over-soak, or your French toast will be soggy!
- Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Melt a pat of butter on the hot surface for each batch of French toast.
- Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot griddle or skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on the heat; you want the French toast to cook evenly without burning. If it’s browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
- Serve your Pumpkin Spice French Toast immediately with your favorite toppings. Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, and chopped nuts are all fantastic options. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon adds a lovely finishing touch.