Description
Start your morning with the warm, comforting flavors of fall. This pumpkin spice French toast casserole combines tender bread, creamy pumpkin custard, and cozy spices for a dish perfect for family breakfasts, holiday brunches, or a cozy weekend treat. Easy to prepare ahead of time and bake in the morning, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients
-
1 loaf day-old bread (brioche, challah, or French bread), cut into cubes
-
1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
-
6 large eggs
-
1 cup whole milk or cream
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
-
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
-
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
-
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
-
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
-
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
-
1/4 cup maple syrup for serving
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
-
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread evenly in the prepared dish.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
-
Pour the custard over the bread, pressing gently so each piece absorbs the mixture.
-
Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top if using.
-
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
-
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until golden brown and custard is set.
-
Let cool 5–10 minutes, then drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture. Optional toppings include nuts, maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit. Can be made ahead or frozen for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes