Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin puree

4 large eggs

1 cup milk (can substitute with almond or oat milk)

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon salt

8 slices of bread (thick-cut, such as brioche or challah)

Butter or oil for cooking

Maple syrup, for serving

Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds on each side.

Step 3: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter or oil.

Step 4: Place the soaked bread slices on the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.

Step 5: Transfer cooked French toast to a plate and keep warm while cooking the remaining slices.

Step 6: Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and chopped nuts if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh roasted pumpkin puree for a richer flavor instead of canned.

Try different breads like sourdough or cinnamon-raisin for unique tastes.

Adjust spices by adding cloves or allspice to deepen the fall flavors.

Make the pumpkin mixture the night before and refrigerate to save time in the morning.

For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy milk.

Try a savory variation by adding salt and pepper to the batter and serving with cheese and herbs.

Make stuffed French toast by adding cream cheese or mascarpone between two slices before dipping.

Use almond flour bread for a gluten-free, grain-free option.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is convenient. For a fresher taste, you can roast and blend fresh pumpkin instead.

What type of bread is best for pumpkin French toast?

Thick-cut breads like brioche, challah, or sourdough hold the pumpkin batter well and create a tender, fluffy French toast. Avoid very thin or crusty breads that may fall apart.