Description
These Pumpkin French Toast Bites are a delightful twist on traditional French toast, featuring tender bread cubes soaked in a creamy pumpkin-spiced custard and pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a cozy fall breakfast or a sweet snack, they’re served warm with maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably brioche or challah), cut into small cubes
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Serving
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the bread cubes: Add the cubed bread to the pumpkin custard mixture, stirring gently to coat each piece completely. Allow the bread cubes to soak for 10-15 minutes so they absorb the flavorful custard well.
- Heat the skillet and melt butter: Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter, ensuring it coats the pan evenly to prevent sticking.
- Cook the first batch: Add half of the soaked bread cubes to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread bites turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Remove and repeat: Transfer the cooked French toast bites to a plate. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet, then cook the remaining bread cubes following the same process.
- Serve warm: Serve the pumpkin French toast bites hot, drizzled generously with maple syrup and dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness and flair.
Notes
- Use brioche or challah bread for best texture and flavor.
- Make sure to soak the bread cubes thoroughly to achieve a custard-like interior.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which helps maintain crispiness.
- Optional toppings include whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a skillet or toaster oven to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American