Pumpkin Spice French Toast — Quick, Cozy Breakfast Favorite

Pumpkin Spice French Toast captures all the flavors of fall in minutes. Thick slices of bread soak in a warm custard infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves — no pumpkin…

By Melanie • September 15, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Pumpkin Spice French Toast captures all the flavors of fall in minutes. Thick slices of bread soak in a warm custard infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves — no pumpkin purée required. The result is light, golden, and aromatic, with just the right touch of sweetness.

This skillet recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you crave cozy flavor without extra steps. Every slice tastes like autumn comfort, especially with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s simple, fragrant, and irresistibly crisp on the edges.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice French Toast

1. Fast and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes using basic pantry staples.
2. No pumpkin purée: All the cozy fall flavor comes from the pumpkin spice blend.
3. Crisp edges, soft center: Perfect contrast in texture every time.
4. Customizable toppings: Add maple syrup, powdered sugar, or toasted pecans.
5. Perfect for mornings: Ideal for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
6. Smells like autumn: Your kitchen will fill with cinnamon and nutmeg aroma.

Ingredients

For the Custard:

• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richness)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the French Toast:

• 6 thick slices of brioche or challah bread (slightly stale works best)
• 2 tbsp butter (for the skillet)
• Maple syrup, for serving
• Powdered sugar and cinnamon, for garnish
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Optional Add-Ons:

• Dollop of whipped cream
• Caramel drizzle for a festive touch
• Fresh berries for a light balance

Equipment You’ll Need

• Nonstick skillet or griddle – it cooks the toast evenly and makes flipping easy without sticking.
• Whisk – perfect for blending eggs, pumpkin, and spices smoothly.
• Mixing bowl – you’ll need this to mix your custard ingredients all in one place.
• Spatula – helps flip the French toast gently and keeps it from falling apart.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right balance of spices and liquids for perfect taste.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice French Toast

Step 1 — Prepare the Custard

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
2. Whisk until smooth and slightly frothy. The mixture should smell warmly spiced and sweet.

Step 2 — Dip the Bread

1. Preheat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to melt.
3. Dip each slice of brioche or challah bread into the custard for about 5–10 seconds per side, ensuring it absorbs the mixture but doesn’t get soggy.

Step 3 — Cook the French Toast

1. Place the soaked slices onto the hot skillet.
2. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp on the edges.
3. Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter as needed between batches.

Step 4 — Serve Warm

1. Stack the slices and top with maple syrup and powdered sugar.
2. Sprinkle a touch of extra pumpkin spice or cinnamon for garnish.
3. For added crunch, top with toasted pecans or walnuts.

💡 Pro tip: If making a large batch, keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while finishing the rest.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard for a warm, adult twist that complements the spices well.
• Stir in mini chocolate chips to the batter for sweet pockets of melty chocolate in every bite.
• Top with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries for a fresh contrast to the warm spices.
• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds to change up the crunch and add a nutty flavor you enjoy.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Arrange cooked slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Keeps for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a toaster or skillet over medium-low heat until crisp. For a quick option, microwave for 30–40 seconds, though the texture will be softer.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the custard the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, just dip and cook.

💡 The texture stays beautifully crisp if you reheat on a dry skillet or in an air fryer for a few minutes.

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Recipe Variations

1. Stuffed French Toast: Add a thin layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two slices before dipping.
2. Cinnamon Swirl Upgrade: Use cinnamon swirl bread for extra spice and flavor.
3. Protein Twist: Substitute half the milk with Greek yogurt or protein milk for a heartier breakfast.
4. Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water), and vegan butter.
5. Holiday Special: Sprinkle with candied pecans and drizzle with maple caramel sauce.
6. Mini French Toast Bites: Cut slices into cubes, dip, and cook as bite-sized pieces — great for brunch platters.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve warm with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Crunchy Finish: Add toasted pecans, candied walnuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for texture.
• Fruit Topping: Pair with sliced bananas, fresh berries, or baked apples for a light balance.
• Whipped Cream Treat: For a café-style touch, top with a swirl of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel syrup.
• Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with pumpkin spice latte, chai tea, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy breakfast combo.

🍂 This version shines when served fresh off the skillet — warm, crisp, and fragrant with fall spices.

Pumpkin Spice French Toast — FAQ

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Spice French Toast delivers all the warmth of autumn in the easiest possible way. It’s light, crisp, and ready in minutes — proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated.

Each slice is a reminder that the simplest recipes often bring the most joy. Whether for a weekend brunch or a weekday treat, this quick fall favorite fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and your morning with happiness.

🧡 Because sometimes, the best breakfasts are the ones that taste like comfort itself.