Name: Pumpkin French Toast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; ¼ cup unsweetened pumpkin puree; ¼ cup cream; ¼ cup milk; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar; 4 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal, crushed; 8 slices day-old French bread

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There’s something magical about a crisp autumn morning that calls for a warm, delightful breakfast. My favorite way to greet the fall season is with a plate of Pumpkin French Toast. The moment the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air, I know I’m in for a treat. I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a chilly Sunday, and my family gathered around the table, eager to dive into something special. The combination of pumpkin, eggs, and cream creates a rich batter that clings to the bread beautifully, while the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal adds that perfect crunch. Just like that, breakfast transformed into a warm hug on a plate.

This recipe isn’t just for a quiet morning at home; it’s perfect for festive gatherings like Thanksgiving when everyone is craving something warm and cozy. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to whip up, meaning you can focus on enjoying the company around you. Trust me, seeing everyone’s faces light up with that first bite is absolutely worth it. So, let’s get cooking and start creating some delicious memories with this scrumptious Pumpkin French Toast!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
8 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Skillet

Why This Pumpkin French Toast Works

Why This Recipe Stands Out

There are so many reasons to love this Pumpkin French Toast, and I can’t wait to share them with you. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try.

1. Perfect for Fall

The flavors of this recipe are the essence of fall. When you combine pumpkin with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket. Each bite evokes the feeling of crunching leaves underfoot and the crisp air of autumn.

2. A Family Favorite

Whenever I make this dish, my family gathers around, laughter fills the air, and the aroma draws everyone to the kitchen. It’s become a tradition in our household, especially on weekends when we can take our time and enjoy a leisurely breakfast together.

3. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. If you prefer to skip the crunch, feel free to leave off the Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal. You can also try different bread varieties, like sourdough or whole grain. The key is to use bread that’s a bit stale to hold up to the batter.

4. Easy to Make

Don’t worry if you’re not a master chef; this Pumpkin French Toast is simple enough for anyone to make! With just a few steps, you’ll have an impressive breakfast that looks and tastes gourmet.

5. Great for Meal Prep

Another reason to love this dish is that you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready for breakfast, dip the slices of bread and cook them up in no time. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time.

6. A Festive Touch

This Pumpkin French Toast isn’t just a breakfast dish; it’s a centerpiece for any fall gathering or holiday brunch. Serve it with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar to make it even more festive.

Shopping List for Pumpkin French Toast

When it comes to making Pumpkin French Toast, the ingredients are what really bring this dish to life. The rich flavors of pumpkin, along with the warm spices, create a comforting and delicious breakfast. Each ingredient plays a significant role in the overall taste and texture of the final product.

2 large eggs: These are the base of your batter, providing the essential moisture and richness.
¼ cup unsweetened pumpkin puree: Adds a beautiful flavor and creamy texture.
¼ cup cream: This makes the batter rich and indulgent.
¼ cup milk: Balances the creaminess and gives a light texture.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warm spice that is synonymous with fall.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Another fall favorite that adds depth to the flavor.
1 tablespoon granulated white sugar: Just the right amount of sweetness to complement the pumpkin.
4 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal, crushed: For that delightful crunch on the outside.
8 slices day-old French bread: The star of the dish; it absorbs the batter beautifully.

Instructions for Pumpkin French Toast

Cooking Pumpkin French Toast is a wonderful experience, and I love the process as much as the final product. Here’s how you can make it yourself:

In a low-lying, flat bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, cream, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. Make sure the mixture is well combined and smooth. This will be the flavorful batter that coats your bread.
Put the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal in another low-lying flat bowl. This is where the magic happens as the cereal will give your French toast that irresistible crunch.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and brush it with butter or spray with nonstick spray. You want the skillet hot enough to give the bread a nice sear without burning it.
Quickly dip the French bread slices into the egg mixture on both sides, ensuring they’re coated but not soaked. A quick dip is all you need!
After dipping, cover both sides of the bread with the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. The crunchiness will be irresistible!
Place the coated bread in the hot skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Cooking at a lower temperature allows the inside to cook through without burning the outside.
Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the bread is lightly browned. You’ll know it’s ready when the cereal is crisp and golden.
Repeat the process with the remaining slices of bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
Serve immediately with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your Pumpkin French Toast!

Things Worth Knowing

Stale Bread Works Best: Using day-old French bread allows it to absorb the batter without turning soggy. Fresh bread may not hold up as well.
Adjusting Sweetness: You can modify the amount of sugar based on your personal preference. If you want it less sweet, reduce the sugar amount.
Cooking Temperature: Keeping the heat low while covering helps cook the bread evenly and prevents burning.
Make Ahead: Prepare the batter the night before, and dip the bread in the morning for a quick breakfast!

Making Adjustments

Cooking is all about personal preferences, and this recipe is no different. Here are some tips to tailor your Pumpkin French Toast to your taste:

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to regain the crunch.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze the cooked slices! Place parchment paper between them and store in a freezer bag. Simply reheat in the oven.
Pairing: Serve with fresh fruit, like bananas or berries, for a refreshing contrast to the warm toast.
Variations: Experiment with spices! Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for an extra kick.
Serving Style: For a brunch setting, serve alongside a light salad or yogurt to balance the sweetness.

What to Pair With Pumpkin French Toast

Serving Pumpkin French Toast can be a wonderful experience filled with delicious options. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

Maple Syrup: A classic pairing that adds sweetness and a lovely flavor.
Fresh Fruit: Slices of banana, strawberries, or blueberries bring freshness to the table and make the dish feel lighter.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can elevate this breakfast dish to a dessert level!
Spiced Nuts: Add a crunch with some honey-roasted nuts for a delightful texture contrast.
Seasonal Beverages: Pair with a warm spiced apple cider or a rich hot chocolate for a festive touch.
Great for Brunch: This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings, especially during the fall season!

FAQ

Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, you can use it instead of canned pumpkin puree. Just make sure to cook the pumpkin until it’s soft and then puree it until smooth. This will give you a fresh flavor and a wonderful texture in your Pumpkin French Toast.

The best bread for Pumpkin French Toast is day-old French bread or even challah. The staleness helps the bread hold up against the batter without becoming too soggy. However, if you have other types of bread like brioche, they can also work well, just be cautious with the soaking time!

Yes, you can definitely adapt this recipe to be vegan! Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water, use plant-based cream and milk alternatives, and ensure your cereal is vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of Pumpkin French Toast!

Store any leftover Pumpkin French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet to restore their golden brown crispiness. Alternatively, you can also freeze them with parchment paper in between slices for longer storage.

Conclusion

The Pumpkin French Toast is a delightful blend of flavors that embodies the spirit of fall. With its rich pumpkin flavor and crunchy texture, it’s perfect for cozy breakfasts or festive gatherings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just about eating breakfast, it’s about creating memories around the table with loved ones. Happy cooking!

Pumpkin French Toast

The ultimate comfort food, Pumpkin French Toast is a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin, warm spices, and crunchy texture that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for cozy mornings and festive brunches, this easy recipe will have you wanting more. Make it today for a taste of fall!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 15

Total Time 35

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Whisk
Mixing Bowl
Chef's Knife
Skillet

Ingredients

2 large eggs
¼ cup unsweetened pumpkin puree
¼ cup cream
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
4 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal, crushed
8 slices day-old French bread

Instructions

In a low-lying, flat bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, cream, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar. Make sure the mixture is well combined and smooth. This will be the flavorful batter that coats your bread.
Put the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal in another low-lying flat bowl. This is where the magic happens as the cereal will give your French toast that irresistible crunch.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and brush it with butter or spray with nonstick spray. You want the skillet hot enough to give the bread a nice sear without burning it.
Quickly dip the French bread slices into the egg mixture on both sides, ensuring they're coated but not soaked. A quick dip is all you need!
After dipping, cover both sides of the bread with the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. The crunchiness will be irresistible!
Place the coated bread in the hot skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Cooking at a lower temperature allows the inside to cook through without burning the outside.
Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the bread is lightly browned. You'll know it's ready when the cereal is crisp and golden.
Repeat the process with the remaining slices of bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
Serve immediately with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your Pumpkin French Toast!

Notes

Tip 1: This recipe really is best with French bread that is a day or two old- if it's too soft, it will absorb too much of the liquid and turn out soggy.
Tip 2: Do a quick dip into the liquid. You don't want to soak the bread in it.
Tip 3: You may leave off the crumbled cereal if you don't wish to add crunch. (It's good though!)