Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Are you searching for a cozy, heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of fall? Look no further than Pumpkin French Toast Casserole! This delightful dish combines the classic comfort of French toast with the rich, earthy flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast table. Just imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your home, enticing everyone to gather around for a delicious meal.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd for a holiday brunch or just looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast for your family, this casserole is incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time. Just assemble the ingredients the night before, and you’ll wake up to a stress-free, flavorful breakfast that will impress even the pickiest eaters. If you love classic breakfast dishes like our scrumptious Banana Pancakes, this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is sure to become a new favorite! So, let’s dive into this recipe and discover just how simple and rewarding it is to make.

What is Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?

Now, what’s in a name? Pumpkin French Toast Casserole sounds like a mouthful, but it’s quite simple when you break it down. Basically, it’s the love child of two beloved breakfast staples—French toast and pumpkin pie. Imagine layers of bread soaked in a creamy pumpkin mixture, lovingly baked to perfection. Isn’t it funny how food can have such whimsical names? I mean, who wouldn’t get excited about a dish that delivers both pumpkin spice and French toast flavors in one delightful bite? Remember, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and serving up this dish might just get you some extra brownie points in the kitchen! So why wait? Dive into this recipe and make breakfast a celebration!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is packed with flavor, budget-friendly, and irresistibly delicious! First and foremost, the highlight of this dish lies in the glorious combination of pumpkin puree, spices, and rich custard soaking into thick slices of bread. It’s like a cozy hug in breakfast form!

And who doesn’t love saving a little cash? Homemade casseroles are often less expensive than dining out, and this one is no exception. You can whip up a hearty meal for the whole family without breaking the bank!

To top it all off, you can embellish this casserole with creative toppings like whipped cream, pecans, or a drizzle of maple syrup. If you’re a fan of sweet dishes that celebrate seasonal ingredients, you’ll want to try this recipe, especially if you enjoy our Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake!

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Quick Overview

Ready to create a delicious Pumpkin French Toast Casserole? You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to assemble. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this dish comes together in about 15 minutes, followed by a quick bake in the oven. You’ll love the comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen as it bakes!

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

• 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread (12 cups, cubed)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)

Feel free to add any other toppings or spices you adore!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Start by cubing your bread into bite-sized pieces. It’s best to use bread that’s slightly stale, as it absorbs the custard better.

2. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.

3. Combine: Gently fold the cubed bread into the custard mixture, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Let sit for about 10 minutes to soak in the flavors.

4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

5. Serve: Once baked, allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of delight!

What to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Casserole With

Enhance your breakfast experience by pairing this casserole with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or a fruit salad, to add a refreshing element to your meal. You might also consider serving it with some maple syrup on the side for drizzling, or a tall glass of warm apple cider to evoke that autumn feel.

Top Tips for Perfecting Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

• Bread Choice: Use a high-quality, thick bread like brioche or challah for the best results. Stale bread works better as it absorbs more of the custard.
• Let it Soak: Allow the mixture to sit for at least 10-15 minutes before baking. This will ensure the bread soaks up the custard fully.
• Variations: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits to customize it to your taste.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though they may not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop it back in a warm oven until heated through. For long-term storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers; you’ll be able to enjoy this festive dish anytime!

Creating a Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is not just about the deliciousness; it’s about the joy it brings to your breakfast table. So, gather your ingredients, invite a few friends over—or just treat yourself—and enjoy this cozy dish that’s perfect for any day of the week!

Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

A delightful and hearty casserole combining French toast with pumpkin flavors, perfect for a cozy breakfast or holiday brunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole

• 1 loaf brioche or challah bread cubed (about 12 cups)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces, preferably using slightly stale bread for better absorption.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
3. Gently fold the cubed bread into the custard mixture, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Allow to sit for about 10 minutes to soak in the flavors.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Serving

1. Once baked, allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added delight.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm oven.