You ever wake up on a chilly morning and crave something just cozy? That pumpkin French toast recipe is one of my all-time solutions for days like this. Last fall, I realized I’d had my fill of the regular stuff and yearned for something a bit more festive.

After poking around (and burning some toast, real talk), I landed on this gem and I have not looked back. Before we dive into all the nitty gritty, if you’re on a roll with classic comfort food, this French onion soup recipe is also a must. Okay, now let’s get cozy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

If you’re even a little bit of a pumpkin fan, this breakfast is a game-changer. Pumpkin French toast has this warm, spiced flavor that instantly feels like autumn in your kitchen, no matter what month it is. The soft custard inside each slice—your fork just glides right through it, and that sweet-salty vibe from the pumpkin spice? I could eat it every morning, easy.

I love how it’s almost like eating dessert for breakfast, but just healthy enough you don’t feel guilty. Plus, your whole house will smell like a fancy bakery.

(One friend of mine literally asked, “Where’s the candle?” when she walked in.) You can whip it up for a lazy Sunday or wow your in-laws during the holidays. It’s flexible too, so if you run out of an ingredient, relax—you’ve got options!

Someone once told me, “I never thought French toast could compete with pancakes…until now.” Seriously. Now my freezer’s stashed with extra for sneaky late-night snacks.

Pumpkin French toast recipe

How to Make Pumpkin French toast recipe

Okay, let’s get rolling. You don’t need a culinary degree for this, I swear. First things first: grab your bread. A thicker, heartier bread works best—I love good ol’ challah or brioche, but plain sandwich bread will survive if that’s what you’ve got.

Now, mix up your batter. Eggs, milk (any kind really), canned pumpkin (not the pie filling, that’s key), sugar, vanilla, and a heap of pumpkin pie spice. Stir it up till it’s smoother than your auntie’s mashed potatoes.

Dip each slice of bread right in there. Let it soak, but not drown. You want it juicy, not soggy. Hit the pan with some butter, wait for it to sizzle, and fry your French toast on each side until it’s beautifully golden brown—a couple minutes will do. If you’re feeding a crowd, just keep piling them on a warm plate and shove them in the oven to stay hot. There it is, easy as pie.

Honestly, half the fun is licking the leftover batter off the bowl—but don’t quote me.

Pumpkin French toast recipe

Recipe Variations

Now, if you’re like me and can’t leave well enough alone, try these spins on the classic. For a richer flavor, swap in half and half instead of milk. Feeling wild? Throw some chocolate chips or walnuts into the batter. You can even use gluten-free bread if that’s your jam—comes out just as tasty, sometimes even better.

On wild mornings when I’m rushed, I’ve even made this with stale bagels. Not lying, it works. For little kids, you might want to dial the spice back just a notch. And if you happen to have a banana on hand, mashing it in with the pumpkin is surprisingly delish.

“I made this pumpkin French toast for brunch last Saturday and my family demolished it—fast. Never had leftovers disappear so quickly!”

Pumpkin French toast recipe

Helpful French Toast Tips

Want it to be five-star restaurant level? A few pro moves:

Always use day-old bread if you can. It just… holds up better.
Whisk that batter like you’re mad at it. Get all the pumpkin nice and smooth.
Don’t rush the soaking. Give each slice some time in the batter, not just a quick dip.
Serve with maple syrup, whipped cream, or yes, even a tiny scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling dramatic.

Trust me, those minor tweaks? They turn out some seriously next-level pumpkin French toast.

Pumpkin French toast recipe

More Breakfast Pumpkin Recipes

Honestly, if you’ve got leftover pumpkin puree, don’t let it go sad and forgotten in the fridge. There are lots of ways to keep your breakfast game going strong. I toss it into oatmeal, or even my pancake batter. Oh, and muffins—don’t start me on muffins.

If you’re the baking type, maybe check out our apple pie recipe over at HomemadeBlog (which is another soul-hug breakfast, let’s be real). Let me know if you try others, because I’m always on the hunt for fresh ideas.

Before you dash off, I have to share a couple favorites from other meal adventures—if comfort’s your thing, this Pumpkin French Toast from Cooking Classy will give you a tasty twist.

You might want to balance your sweet tooth with something savory like a French onion soup recipe. If you ask me, those are two classics that never let me down. So, what are you waiting for? Dig in and let me know how yours turns out!

Pumpkin French toast recipe