Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s a certain warmth and comfort that comes with autumn. One of the most delightful ways to embrace the season is through food, and what could be more quintessentially fall than a Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole? This delectable dish combines the classic flavors of French toast with the cozy spices of pumpkin pie, creating a breakfast-lunch hybrid that is perfect for lazy weekends, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a touch of seasonal indulgence.
Imagine waking up to a warm casserole, infused with the rich aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, drizzled with maple syrup, and topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Each bite is a perfect harmony of creamy custard-soaked bread and the comforting essence of pumpkin. Best of all, this dish is not only easy to prepare but can also be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning with your loved ones.
Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe, perfect for showcasing your baking skills while savoring the best flavors of fall. Whether you’re a pumpkin enthusiast or simply looking to warm hearts and bellies, this Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole is sure to become a cherished addition to your autumn brunch repertoire!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of sturdy bread (like challah or brioche), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
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- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt until everything is well combined.
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- Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish in an even layer. If you are using pecans, sprinkle them evenly over the bread.
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- Pour the pumpkin mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to coat them evenly. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it’s all soaked up with the custard mixture.
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- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor infusion.
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- Once ready to bake, remove the foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
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- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 8
Key Ingredients
- Bread: 1 loaf of brioche or challah, cut into cubes (about 10-12 cups)
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup (canned or fresh)
- Eggs: 8 large eggs
- Milk: 2 cups (whole or your preferred dairy/non-dairy milk)
- Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
- Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 2 teaspoons (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted (for greasing the baking dish and drizzling)
- Optional Toppings: Whipped cream, maple syrup, nuts, or powdered sugar for serving
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden-brown crust. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking. -
Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a generous sprinkle of pumpkin spice (usually a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice). Make sure the mixture is well combined and smooth. -
Add Sweetness:
Incorporate 1/2 cup of brown sugar into the egg mixture and whisk until dissolved. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference, and consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. -
Prepare the Bread:
Use 10-12 slices of bread, preferably a day or two old (brioche or challah work wonderfully). Cut the bread into cubes, about 1-inch in size. This helps the bread absorb the custard mixture better. -
Combine Bread with Mixture:
Slowly fold the cubed bread into the egg mixture, ensuring each piece is soaked thoroughly. Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir, making sure all the bread is coated and soaked in the custard mixture. -
Layering:
Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, you can sprinkle some additional cinnamon or a few pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor. -
Cover and Chill:
For best results, cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a richer flavor. -
Bake the Casserole:
Once ready to bake, remove the cover and place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. You can also give it a gentle shake; it should be set but still slightly jiggly. -
Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to serve. -
Garnish:
Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup, or dusted with powdered sugar. Feel free to add whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt on top for a delightful finish. -
Enjoy:
Indulge in this cozy, seasonal dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings! Enjoy the warm pumpkin spice flavors capturing the essence of fall with every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole experience, consider the following serving suggestions:
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic accompaniment, warm maple syrup enhances the flavors of pumpkin and spices. Drizzle generously over each serving for added sweetness.
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Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy casserole. Consider spicing it up with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg.
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Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the casserole.
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Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin spice theme.
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Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt can add a creamy tang and a dose of protein, making this dish satisfying for breakfast or brunch.
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Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter touch, mix in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the casserole before baking, or sprinkle them on top right after it’s out of the oven.
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Ice Cream Option: For a decadent dessert twist, serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings.
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Beverage Pairing: Complement your casserole with a warm chai latte, spiced apple cider, or a classic cup of coffee enhanced with pumpkin spice creamer.
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Garnish: Top your casserole with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a visually appealing sweet touch, and a few extra pumpkin seeds for a seasonal flair.
Enjoy customizing your Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole with these delightful pairings to create a memorable meal!
Conclusion
This Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole is the perfect embodiment of cozy autumn mornings, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg into a delightful breakfast treat. It’s an excellent make-ahead option, allowing you to enjoy leisurely brunches with family and friends without the morning rush. The contrasting textures of soft, custardy bread topped with a deliciously crispy crumble make every bite a comfort. Whether drizzled with maple syrup or served alongside whipped cream, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your breakfast table. Embrace the seasonal flavors and delight your taste buds by making this comforting dish a staple during the fall season; it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen!
