Hello, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to make your mornings a bit more magical? If you love the flavors of autumn and enjoy cozy breakfasts (who doesn’t, right?), then you’re going to adore this Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, lazy weekends, or that craving for something sweet! I love how easy it is to prepare—just mix, soak, and bake! Plus, the smell of it baking is like a warm hug for your home.
Nutritional Benefits
Let’s talk about some of the perks of this delicious casserole. First and foremost, pumpkin is loaded with nutrients, including vitamin A, which is great for vision and immune health. It’s also high in fiber, which can help you feel fuller longer. And, using eggs adds protein to the mix, making it a satisfying breakfast option. You can even swap regular milk for an alternative like almond or oat milk if you want a lighter twist! It’s all about balance, right?
Fun Variations to Make
- Add Some Crunch: If you love nuts, try adding some chopped pecans or walnuts before baking. They’ll add a delightful crunch!
- Fruit Fest: Toss in some fresh apples or cranberries for a fruity twist that goes perfectly with the pumpkin flavors.
- Spice Level: Want it a bit spicier? Increase the pumpkin spice mix or add a pinch of nutmeg for that extra autumn zing!
Cozy Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or milk alternative)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice mix
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (for serving)
- Whipped cream (for topping, optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Serves 6–8 people
Standard portions → 6 servings
Slightly smaller portions → up to 8 servings
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking that fluffy casserole.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined. This mix is where all the magic begins!
- Take your cubed bread and place it into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. The more, the merrier!
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring that each piece soaks up that flavorful custard. If necessary, give them a gentle toss to coat them nicely.
- Cover your dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step really helps the bread absorb all those delicious flavors.
- After the wait, uncover the dish and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top if you like. It’s all about those extra touches!
- Now, it’s showtime! Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole turns a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once you’re done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before diving in.
- When you’re ready, drizzle it with maple syrup, add whipped cream if you wish, and don’t forget that dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for that sweet finish!
- Grab a fork and enjoy your cozy Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole while it’s warm!
Valuable Tips
- If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can assemble it the night before and let it soak in the fridge overnight. Just bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick treat.
- Feel free to modify the sweetness level to your taste. Reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet dish!
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- A 9×13 inch baking dish (to hold all that deliciousness!)
- A whisk or fork (for mixing up the custard)
- A mixing bowl (large enough to hold everything together)
- Measuring cups and spoons (to get those amounts just right)
- Plastic wrap or aluminum foil (to cover your dish while it soaks)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use any type of bread? Yes! Challah and brioche are fantastic, but feel free to use any bread you love, like sourdough or whole grain, for a different flavor.
- Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Just substitute regular bread for gluten-free bread, and you’re all set.
- How long can I store leftovers? This casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings for a cozy treat!
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes! Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking again.
- Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, but make sure it’s well cooked and pureed for the best results.
I can’t wait for you to try this Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole! Trust me, your mornings will thank you. Did you whip it up? Share your thoughts with me—I’d love to hear how it turned out! Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more delightful, easy recipes that will bring warmth to your table!
