The air is crisp, and the aroma of spices fills the kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace reminiscent of cozy autumn mornings. Today, I’m excited to share my Pumpkin French Toast with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter, a delightful twist on a classic breakfast that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The rich pumpkin batter and soft brioche elevate this dish into a seasonal indulgence that’s not just breakfast—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and comfort. With quick prep and an irresistible gooey topping that will have your family dancing around the table on Thanksgiving morning, this dish is sure to become a cherished go-to in your kitchen. Curious about how to make your mornings a little more magical? Let’s get started!

Why Will You Adore This French Toast?

Quick, effortless preparation: This recipe whips up in no time, making it a perfect solution for busy mornings or festive celebrations.

Seasonal delight: Featuring warm pumpkin and spices, it captures the essence of fall while bringing comfort to your breakfast table.

Heavenly topping: The luscious brown sugar cinnamon butter melts right into the French toast, creating a sweet, gooey finish that’s simply irresistible.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s for Thanksgiving brunch or a special Sunday breakfast, this dish will have everyone begging for seconds.

Versatile twist: Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or dried fruits, or even daring to substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option, keeping your meals exciting!

Pair it with a warm spiced latte for an ultimate cozy start to your day!

Pumpkin French Toast Ingredients

• Get ready for a fall treat with these delicious ingredients!

For the French Toast Batter

Brioche or Challah Bread – Provides a rich, sturdy base that resists sogginess; substitute with any hearty bread like sourdough for variation.
Eggs – Acts as the binding agent enriching the custard mixture; ensure freshness for the best flavor.
Milk – Adds moisture and creaminess to the batter; whole milk is ideal, but any milk alternative could be used.
Canned Pumpkin – Adds flavor and moisture, enhancing the autumn vibe; substitute with fresh pumpkin puree if available.
Vanilla – Infuses sweetness and depth to the batter; pure vanilla extract yields the best flavor.
Flour – Helps achieve a thicker custard that coats the bread without making it soggy.
Cinnamon – Provides a warm spice essential for a seasonal taste.
Brown Sugar – Contributes caramelized sweetness and depth; can be swapped with granulated sugar if necessary.

For the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter

Butter (Softened) – Serves as the base for the topping, adding creaminess; use unsalted for better control of seasoning.
Cinnamon, Brown Sugar, Nutmeg – Enhance flavor and aroma in the butter, creating a flavorful spread perfect for your Pumpkin French Toast.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin French Toast with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup softened butter with 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Once combined, transfer the butter mixture to the freezer to firm up while you prepare the rest of the Pumpkin French Toast.

Step 2: Preheat the Skillet
Spray a large skillet or griddle with cooking spray and place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to preheat for about 3-5 minutes until it’s hot but not smoking. This step is crucial to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on your Pumpkin French Toast.

Step 3: Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup canned pumpkin, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until everything is combined and smooth. In another bowl, mix 1 cup flour, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/4 cup brown sugar, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. You’ll achieve a thick, velvety batter that beautifully coats the bread.

Step 4: Coat the Bread
Take slices of brioche or challah bread and quickly dip each one into the pumpkin batter, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated. Be careful not to let the bread soak too long; about 3-4 seconds per side is sufficient to avoid sogginess. Place the coated slices on a plate, ready for cooking.

Step 5: Cook the French Toast
Transfer the coated bread slices to the preheated skillet, ensuring they fit without crowding. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a delightful golden brown and feel firm to the touch. If your skillet is large enough, you can cook several slices at once to speed up the process.

Step 6: Serve
Once cooked, remove the Pumpkin French Toast from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Top each slice generously with the chilled Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter, allowing it to melt into the warm toast. Serve immediately, garnishing with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.

Pumpkin French Toast with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic Pumpkin French Toast to make it your own!

Fresh Pumpkin: Swap canned pumpkin for freshly roasted or pureed pumpkin for a more vibrant flavor. Freshness can truly elevate your toast!
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch. This extra texture pairs perfectly with the soft toast, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk and substitute vegan butter for a delicious dairy-free breakfast. It’s just as tasty and perfect for your plant-based friends!
Chocolate Swirl: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet twist that kids will love. You might just find the chocolatey addition brings a smile to everyone’s face!
Spice It Up: Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of ginger or allspice for a spicy twist. This can lead to a cozy, deeply aromatic experience that warms up any chilly morning!
Sweet and Savory: Top your French toast with crispy bacon for a delightful sweet and savory combo. The saltiness mingling with the sweetness creates a truly unforgettable flavor profile!
Cinnamon Roll Style: Add a swirl of cinnamon sugar in the batter and create a delicious marbled effect. This playful twist will beautifully transform your brunch into an indulgent treat.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate mashed ripe bananas or pureed apples into the batter for added natural sweetness and moisture. This fruity touch not only enhances the flavor but also provides added health benefits!

Get inspired as you play with these variations, and if you’re looking for more comforting brunch ideas, check out our Cinnamon Roll Sugar or the delectable Roll French Toast. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin French Toast with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter are perfect for busy mornings and can save you precious time! To prep ahead, you can make the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin, and vanilla per the recipe, then mix in the dry ingredients and refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can also prepare the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 days; just bring it to room temperature before serving. When ready to cook, dip the bread in the prepared batter and follow the remaining steps to enjoy a delicious and cozy breakfast without the hassle! Enjoy the convenience without compromising on taste!

What to Serve with Pumpkin French Toast with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter

Indulging in this delightful dish sets the stage for a beautifully cozy breakfast that warms both heart and home.

Crispy Bacon: The salty, savory crunch of bacon pairs beautifully with the sweet pumpkin flavors, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears adds a bright, crisp contrast to the rich French toast, enhancing your meal’s freshness.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A rich pour of pure maple syrup elevates this dish further, adding a decadent sweetness that perfectly complements the pumpkin spice.
Spiced Chai Latte: This warm, aromatic drink envelops you in cinnamon and nutmeg bliss, making each sip a comforting accompaniment to your decadent French toast.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and fluffy whipped cream gives a delightful finish, adding indulgence and lightness to every indulgent bite of the French toast.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon: Soft, warm baked apples drizzled with cinnamon sugar enhance the fall theme and provide juicy bites that contrast beautifully with the toast’s softness.
Sage-Infused Sausage: Sage sausage adds a savory, herbal note that perfectly complements pumpkin’s earthiness, creating a delightful flavor combination that warms your soul.
Warm White Chocolate Cinnamon Lattes: The luxurious creaminess and festive spices in this latte make every sip a cozy embrace, enhancing the warmth of your fall breakfast experience.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin French Toast

Avoid Sogginess: Quickly dip the bread to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid. A 3-4 second dip is ideal for the perfect texture.

Choose the Right Bread: Opt for brioche or challah for a rich, fluffy feel. These options enhance the overall experience and prevent sogginess during cooking.

Temperature Matters: Make sure your skillet is preheated properly. This ensures a beautiful golden-brown crust and avoids undercooked centers for your Pumpkin French Toast.

Blend Well: For a smooth batter, whisk together wet and dry ingredients thoroughly. This helps distribute the flavors and creates that luscious custard we all love.

Don’t Skip the Butter: The Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter is integral to this recipe. It elevates the flavor dramatically—make sure to indulge!

Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger to the batter for an extra kick. This will enhance the warm, cozy taste of your Pumpkin French Toast.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover Pumpkin French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to reheat!

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat slices in a toaster or skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This restores their crispy texture while keeping the inside soft and delightful.

Tip: For best results, add a little extra butter or syrup when reheating to enhance flavor and moisture.

Pumpkin French Toast with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Pumpkin French Toast?
I highly recommend using brioche or challah bread, as they provide a rich, sturdy base that resists sogginess. If you’re looking for a variation, sourdough also works wonderfully. Just make sure you choose hearty bread to hold up against the pumpkin batter!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin French Toast?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy it later, simply reheat it in a toaster or skillet over medium heat until it’s warmed through. This helps to restore its original delightful texture!

Can I freeze Pumpkin French Toast?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, your French toast can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat them straight from the freezer in a toaster or skillet, adding a little butter or syrup for extra flavor.

What is the best way to prevent sogginess when making pumpkin French toast?
To avoid sogginess, quickly dip the bread slices into the pumpkin batter for about 3-4 seconds on each side. This ensures they are just coated without absorbing too much liquid. Cooking them in a preheated skillet is also crucial, as it helps achieve that crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside tender.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
If you have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! You can easily adapt this recipe. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the topping. If you’re dealing with egg allergies, there are egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer that you can utilize.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Of course! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can absolutely use fresh pumpkin puree. Simply roast a small sugar pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. This will enhance the freshness of your Pumpkin French Toast significantly. Just ensure the texture isn’t too watery!