This Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole is a warm and cozy dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines soft bread, pumpkin puree, and warm spice flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg!
Honestly, who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of pumpkin spice? I love to make this the night before, so all I have to do is pop it in the oven in the morning—easy and yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
French Bread: This bread is thick and sturdy, perfect for soaking up the custard. If you don’t have French bread, challah or brioche work wonderfully too for a slightly sweeter taste.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin is super convenient, but homemade puree is great if you enjoy cooking from scratch. Just roast and blend your pumpkin, and you’re set!
Eggs: Eggs are essential for the custardy texture. If you need a vegan alternative, try flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water = 1 egg) or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Milk and Heavy Cream: Whole milk makes it rich and creamy, while heavy cream adds extra luxury. Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version, but adjust the texture accordingly.
Spices: Pumpkin pie spice brings warmth and flavor. If you don’t have it, use 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger and cloves for a homemade blend!
How Do I Properly Soak the Bread Without Losing Its Shape?
Getting the bread to soak up the custard is key to this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to coat all the bread pieces evenly with the pumpkin-egg mixture.
- Use a spatula to gently press down the bread, squeezing out air pockets so it absorbs more liquid.
- Let the dish rest in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to fully soak up all the flavors.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve a deliciously soft and flavorful casserole to enjoy in the morning!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6 cups)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Toppings:
- 1 tsp cinnamon, for topping
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then it needs to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. Baking it will take about 45-50 minutes. Overall, set aside a bit of time for the prep and enjoy the wonderful smells in your kitchen while it bakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Add the Bread:
Take your cubed French bread and evenly spread it out in the prepared baking dish. Make sure the pieces are spread out nicely for even soaking.
3. Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Soak the Bread:
Pour the pumpkin-egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press down the bread with a spatula to make sure it soaks up the custard mixture. This is key to getting a custardy texture!
5. Refrigerate:
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This allows the bread to soak up all those yummy flavors!
6. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, the oven will be hot and ready for your casserole!
7. Add Toppings:
Remove the plastic wrap from your dish. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and cinnamon. Drizzle this over the top of the soaked bread. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the mixture.
8. Bake:
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. It’s delicious warm, so serve it up with maple syrup drizzled on top and a dollop of whipped cream if you like!
Enjoy this cozy and flavorful Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole as a delightful fall breakfast or brunch treat!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Bread Instead of French Bread?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread will add extra fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish. Just ensure the bread is fairly sturdy so it can absorb the custard without falling apart.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. It may need an extra few minutes in the oven if it’s still a bit cold.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with additional whole milk or a non-dairy milk option like coconut milk for a creamy texture without the heaviness. Just keep in mind that it may alter the richness a bit!