Pumpkin Pie French Toast — Rich, Custardy Fall Brunch Delight

Pumpkin Pie French Toast transforms the classic breakfast into a dessert-style brunch centerpiece. Each slice is soaked in a creamy custard made with real pumpkin purée, brown sugar, and pumpkin-pie…

By Melanie • September 5, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

Save Recipe Print Recipe

Tip: save now, cook later.

Pumpkin Pie French Toast transforms the classic breakfast into a dessert-style brunch centerpiece. Each slice is soaked in a creamy custard made with real pumpkin purée, brown sugar, and pumpkin-pie spices, then lightly baked until soft and custardy inside.

The texture is rich and pudding-like, echoing the flavor of a fresh pumpkin pie. Serve it warm with whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of caramel for a show-stopping autumn treat. It’s cozy, indulgent, and perfect for weekend brunches or holiday mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie French Toast

1. True pumpkin flavor: Uses real pumpkin purée for depth and creaminess.
2. Custardy texture: Soft, pie-like interior with a golden baked top.
3. Perfect for gatherings: Feeds a crowd and looks stunning on the table.
4. Make-ahead friendly: Assemble ahead and bake just before serving.
5. Dessert-style brunch: Tastes like pumpkin pie and French toast in one.
6. Festive presentation: Top with whipped cream, caramel, and graham crumbs.

Ingredients

For the Custard:

• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the French Toast:

• 6 slices of thick brioche or Texas toast
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing or greasing)
• Crushed graham crackers, for topping
• Whipped cream and caramel sauce, for serving

Optional Add-Ons:

• A sprinkle of chopped pecans
• Dusting of cinnamon before baking
• Maple syrup drizzle for extra sweetness

How to Make Pumpkin Pie French Toast

Step 1 — Prepare the Pumpkin Custard

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
2. Whisk until smooth and well blended — the mixture should be creamy and thick like pie filling.

Step 2 — Assemble the French Toast

1. Lightly grease or butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange the bread slices in a single layer (slightly overlapping is fine).
3. Pour the pumpkin custard evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is well coated.
4. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the mixture (or refrigerate overnight for stronger flavor).

Step 3 — Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are golden.
3. For extra texture, sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 4 — Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5 minutes.
2. Slice and serve warm with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup.
3. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or extra graham crumbs for the perfect finishing touch.

💡 Pro tip: Refrigerate leftovers and reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds — they taste even richer the next day.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large shallow mixing bowl – perfect for whisking together the pumpkin custard and soaking your bread evenly.
• Whisk – makes blending the eggs, pumpkin, and spices smooth and simple.
• Nonstick skillet or griddle – helps cook the French toast evenly without sticking.
• Spatula – great for flipping the toast gently without breaking it.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get your pumpkin pie spices just right.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard for a warm, adult twist that pairs nicely with maple syrup.
• Mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips before dipping the bread for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Top with a spoonful of cream cheese frosting or mascarpone for a richer, cheesecake-like flavor.
• Sprinkle chopped candied ginger or crystallized ginger on top to add a spicy, citrusy zing that brightens the fall spices.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftover baked French toast covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, cut into portions, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheat in Oven: Warm covered with foil at 325°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes, until heated through.
• Microwave Option: Heat a slice for 45–60 seconds. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning for a stress-free brunch.

💡 It actually tastes richer the next day — the custard sets perfectly and the spices deepen in flavor.

---

Recipe Variations

1. Caramel-Pecan Delight: Drizzle caramel sauce and sprinkle toasted pecans over the top before serving.
2. Baked Pumpkin Cheesecake Twist: Add spoonfuls of sweetened cream cheese between the bread layers before baking.
3. Coconut Pumpkin Fusion: Use coconut milk instead of dairy and top with toasted coconut flakes.
4. Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Mix in chocolate chips for a dessert-style variation.
5. Savory Pumpkin Bake: Reduce sugar slightly and add a hint of nutmeg and sage for a creative brunch twist.
6. Mini Ramekin Servings: Bake in small ramekins for individual custard-style portions — perfect for guests.

Serving Suggestions

• Dessert-Style Brunch: Top with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and graham cracker crumbs.
• Holiday Flair: Add a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and toasted pecans for a festive finish.
• Extra Sweetness: Serve with warm maple syrup or a spoonful of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
• Savory Contrast: Pair with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to balance the richness.
• Beverage Pairing: Serve alongside coffee with cinnamon or a chai latte for the perfect fall pairing.

🎃 This baked version makes any brunch table feel special — comforting, rich, and elegantly simple.

Pumpkin Pie French Toast — FAQ

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Pie French Toast turns everyday ingredients into a show-stopping fall brunch. With its custardy texture, real pumpkin flavor, and hint of spice, it’s as indulgent as pie yet as comforting as homemade breakfast.

It’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any cozy weekend morning. Serve it warm, enjoy the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin, and let every bite remind you why autumn flavors never go out of style.

🥧 More than breakfast — it’s a slice of fall comfort baked right into your morning.