This is a variation of our Healthy French Toast Base Recipe. This pumpkin French toast variation is full of cozy fall flavor. We use whole grain bread for a hearty base, dip it in a pumpkin-spiced custard, toast it until golden brown, and then top it with fresh fruit, toasted nuts or coconut, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a crisp autumn morning!
Must-Know Cooking Skills to Level Up Your Kitchen Game
To make this recipe even easier, check out these videos to learn how to:
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Culinary Tips for the Best Pumpkin French Toast
- Use slightly stale bread. It absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
- Don’t skip toasting fresh bread. Lightly toasting helps mimic that “stale” texture if needed.
- Cook low and slow. Medium-low heat ensures the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
- Fully coat the bread. Let it soak briefly on each side so it absorbs flavor evenly.
- Avoid overcrowding. Cook in batches if needed for even browning.
- Customize sweetness. Adjust the sweetener based on your toppings and preferences.
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Bread: Whole grain and sourdough are ideal, but any sturdy bread works.
- Milk: Use dairy milk or your favorite plant-based milk alternative.
- Pumpkin Puree: Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Eggs: Essential for structure, but you can experiment with egg substitutes if needed.
- Brown Sugar: Maple syrup, honey, agave, or granulated sugar all work—adjust to taste.
- Vanilla: Adds warmth, but can be skipped or replaced with another extract.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: Use a combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves if you don’t have a pre-made blend.
- Butter: Can substitute with oil or a plant-based alternative.
- Toppings: Fresh apples, pears, bananas, toasted pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds all pair beautifully with pumpkin.
Pumpkin French Toast Variations
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the toppings for crunch and healthy fats.
Love warm spices? Add extra cinnamon or a pinch of ginger, nutmeg, or cloves to boost the fall flavors.
Need some French toast recipe inspiration?
Try out our base recipe, take a look at our variations, and then have fun experimenting with your favorite ingredients to YOUR Taste!
Healthy French Toast Base Recipe
Coconut French Toast with Pineapple
Banana French Toast with Sourdough
Equipment Recommendations
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – for accuracy
- Nonstick Skillet or Griddle – ensures even cooking and easy flipping
- Wide Spatula – helps flip without breaking
- Mixing Bowl or Pie Plate – ideal for soaking bread
- Whisk – for smooth custard
Check out our essential equipment guide to stock your kitchen with ALL the tools you need to prepare anything and everything!
Health Benefits of Pumpkin French Toast
This recipe combines balanced ingredients to create a satisfying and nutrient-rich breakfast.
Whole Grain or Sourdough Bread
Whole grains provide fiber and steady energy, while sourdough supports digestion and a balanced gut microbiome. Some of the world’s longest-lived populations consume sourdough regularly, so it must be working for them!
Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, choline, and several B vitamins that support energy metabolism and brain health.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A to support eye health, immune function, and healthy skin. It also provides fiber and antioxidants that support overall wellness.
Explore our Ingredient Guide for more tips on choosing the freshest, most flavorful picks for your recipes. Because great ingredients = great food! 🌟🍴
How to Serve
Serve warm with fresh fruit, toasted coconut or nuts, nut or seed butter, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. Pair with yogurt or eggs for a balanced meal.
Learn how to build a healthy balanced meal with our Whole Life Plate, meal plan, and book!
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for best texture. French toast can also be frozen and reheated as needed.
Looking for more recipes featuring pumpkin?
Try these delicious recipes!
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FAQ Questions:
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes. Simply roast or steam fresh pumpkin until tender, then blend it into a smooth puree. Make sure it has a similar consistency to canned pumpkin puree, and avoid using pumpkin pie filling since it contains added sugar and spices
What is the best bread for pumpkin French toast?
Whole grain bread works well because it’s sturdy enough to absorb the pumpkin custard without falling apart. Slightly stale bread also creates a better texture by soaking up the mixture while staying crisp on the outside when cooked.
Can I make pumpkin French toast ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the French toast completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet, toaster oven, or oven to help restore its crispy edges.
Pumpkin French Toast with Whole Grain Bread
Equipment
- Stovetop
- Griddle
Ingredients
- 8 slices whole grain bread, slightly stale*
- 1 cup milk or milk alternative
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- dash salt
- ½ tablespoon unsalted butter
Toppings:
- Diced fresh fruit
- Toasted coconut or nuts
- Nut or seed butter
- Maple syrup or Honey
Instructions
- Preheat a griddle or skillet to medium-low heat.
- In a shallow bowl or pie plate, whisk together milk, pumpkin, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, flipping to coat both sides completely. Ensure bread fully absorbs the mixture, but is not soggy.
- Melt butter on the griddle and spread evenly with a pastry brush. Place bread slices onto the pan.
- Cook for ~2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Add more butter to the pan if needed between batches. Serve with toppings to YOUR taste. Enjoy!
