If you love cozy, comforting breakfasts that taste like autumn on a plate, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup Recipe. Imagine thick, buttery slices of brioche soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard, perfectly crisped on the outside while tender inside, then doused with a luscious, warmly spiced pumpkin syrup made from real ingredients. It’s the ultimate way to celebrate fall mornings or impress weekend brunch guests with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is all you need to whip up this mouthwatering Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup Recipe. Each component plays a starring role in crafting irresistible flavors and textures, from the creamy custard soaking into the bread to the sweet, fragrant syrup that ties everything together.
- 6 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread: The soft, slightly sweet bread soaks up the custard beautifully without falling apart.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the custard base.
- 3/4 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess that makes for a tender bite.
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree: Instills that unmistakable pumpkin flavor and velvety texture.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Offers a subtle molasses sweetness enhancing the autumnal notes.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: The perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and spice that brings warmth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a floral, sweet aroma.
- Butter or oil for cooking: For perfectly crisping the French toast on the stovetop.
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: The base for the luscious homemade pumpkin syrup.
- 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree (for syrup): Elevates the syrup with real pumpkin flavor and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (for syrup): Adds that cozy spice touch to the syrup.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for syrup): Enhances sweetness and aroma in the syrup.
- Pinch of salt (for syrup): Balances and highlights the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard is where all the magic begins, infusing each slice of bread with rich pumpkin flavor and those classic fall spices.
Step 2: Dip and Cook the Bread
Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Dip each slice of brioche or challah bread into the pumpkin custard, letting it soak in both sides but allowing excess to drip off gently to avoid sogginess. Then, cook each slice for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. This step is key to achieving that perfect combination of crunch outside and soft, custardy inside.
Step 3: Make the Homemade Pumpkin Syrup
While the French toast cooks, combine the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently and warm the syrup until it’s smooth and heated through, about 5 minutes. The result is a silky, aromatic syrup that elevates the entire dish to new heights of yum.
Step 4: Serve and Drizzle
Plate the warm French toast slices and generously drizzle your homemade pumpkin syrup over the top. The syrup soaks wonderfully into the bread’s crispy edges, balancing sweetness with a gentle pumpkin spice kick. Get ready for that first heavenly bite!
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation and add delightful textures by garnishing with whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or chopped toasted pecans. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh cranberries can also add color and that little extra festive flare.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pumpkin Pie French Toast with crispy bacon or savory sausage for contrast. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears complements the spices beautifully, and a simple arugula salad can refresh the palate for a balanced brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the French toast slices like a mini tower for an eye-catching centerpiece, or cut them into sticks for fun dipping into the warm pumpkin syrup. Individual servings in small cast-iron skillets or pretty plates paired with autumn-themed napkins bring extra coziness and charm to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup Recipe in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate the syrup from the toast to keep each fresh and retain ideal textures.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked French toast slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Keep the pumpkin syrup refrigerated only, as freezing can alter its texture.
Reheating
Reheat the French toast in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispness. Gently warm the pumpkin syrup on the stovetop or in the microwave before drizzling to bring back that silky smooth texture.
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche or challah?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah work best due to their texture and slight sweetness, you can use any thick-cut bread like sourdough or Texas toast. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to soak the custard without falling apart.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and swap butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine to make the recipe dairy-free while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.
Can I make the pumpkin syrup ahead of time?
Definitely. The pumpkin syrup can be made up to 3 days before serving. Store it in the refrigerator and gently warm it before drizzling over the French toast to enjoy that fresh, cozy flavor.
How do I prevent the French toast from getting soggy?
The key is using day-old or slightly stale bread and not soaking the bread too long in the custard mixture. Letting excess custard drip off before cooking and cooking each side until golden crisp helps achieve the perfect texture.
What is the best way to store leftover pumpkin syrup?
Keep the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about a week and can be gently reheated when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that makes every morning feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re celebrating the season or just craving something special, it’s a fantastic way to bring a little pumpkin-spiced happiness to your table. You really should give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
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Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and delicious fall breakfast featuring thick-cut brioche soaked in a pumpkin-spiced custard and cooked to golden perfection, served with a warm homemade pumpkin syrup made from maple syrup and pumpkin puree. This Pumpkin Pie French Toast with Homemade Pumpkin Syrup combines seasonal flavors and comforting textures for a perfect autumn morning treat.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 6 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter or oil for cooking
For the Pumpkin Syrup
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Heat the cooking surface: Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Dip the bread: Take each slice of thick-cut bread and dip it into the custard mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Allow any excess custard to drip off before placing onto the skillet.
- Cook the French toast: Place the dipped bread slices onto the preheated skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown color and are cooked through.
- Make the pumpkin syrup: While the French toast cooks, combine the maple syrup, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring frequently, until the syrup is heated through and smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Serve: Arrange the French toast slices on plates and drizzle generously with the warm pumpkin syrup. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best results, as it absorbs the custard better without falling apart.
- For a non-dairy version, substitute the whole milk with dairy-free milk such as almond or oat milk and use coconut oil instead of butter for cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
