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Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
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This Easy Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a cozy and comforting autumn breakfast dish that combines day-old bread soaked in a rich pumpkin-spiced custard and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for weekend brunches or festive gatherings, it features warm flavors of pumpkin and classic fall spices with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Prepare it the night before for a make-ahead delight that pleases any crowd, customizable with nuts, chocolate, or dietary swaps.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups day-old sturdy bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast), cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based for vegan option)
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup or 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the dish

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Egg substitute such as flax or chia seed eggs (for vegan version)
  • Gluten-free bread substitute
  • Additional spices: ginger or allspice to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut your day-old bread into thick cubes, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches. Spread them evenly in a greased baking dish, allowing space for the custard to soak in.
  2. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup or brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
  3. Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Press down gently to help the bread absorb all the custard.
  4. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to fully soak.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge, optionally sprinkle chopped nuts or extra cinnamon on top, and bake for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
  6. Serve Warm: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm topped with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or whipped cream as desired.

Notes

  • Use sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast for the best texture.
  • Day-old bread works best as it soaks up custard without becoming mushy.
  • Overnight soaking is key to ensure custard fully penetrates bread for max flavor and custardy texture.
  • Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean.
  • Customize with toppings like pecans, pumpkin seeds, or a streusel topping for added texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, french toast casserole, fall breakfast, pumpkin spice, make ahead, brunch, gluten free option, cozy breakfast

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/pumpkin-french-toast-casserole/