Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that feels like a warm hug, this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is just the thing! This dish combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, making it a delightful choice for those crisp autumn mornings or special family gatherings. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones while it bakes to perfection.

This casserole is not just for breakfast either! It makes a fabulous dessert too, and everyone will be asking for seconds. Trust me; this recipe has quickly become a family favorite that I cherish sharing with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you’ll have this delicious casserole ready before you know it.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet pumpkin flavor and crunchy topping. It’s a hit at any breakfast table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning — perfect for busy days or festive gatherings!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, spices, and sweet toppings creates an irresistible combination that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this scrumptious Pumpkin French Toast Casserole, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. Gather these items, and let’s get started on creating something truly special!

For the Casserole

• 3 cups whole milk
• 15 ounces pumpkin puree (425 grams)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar (tightly packed)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 6 large eggs (room temperature)
• 14 to 15 ounces cubed French bread (day-old bread)

For the Streusel Topping

• ½ cup cold cubed salted sweet cream butter
• ½ cup light brown sugar (tightly packed)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Optional Garnish

• ½ cup maple syrup (optional drizzle)
• Vanilla ice cream or thawed whipped topping (optional garnish)

Variations

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in some fresh apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.
• Change the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes.
• Spice It Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the pumpkin mixture.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Mix the Pumpkin Mixture

Start by adding the whole milk, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and eggs into a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until well combined. This step is essential as it ensures every bit of bread gets soaked in that delicious pumpkin goodness!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Generously spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the cubed French bread evenly across the bottom. This allows each piece of bread to absorb all those lovely flavors from our pumpkin mixture.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Pour your pumpkin mixture over the cubed bread. Feel free to use a fork or spoon to gently press down on those cubes so they soak up all that creamy goodness. Cover your baking dish and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours — overnight is even better if you can wait!

Step 4: Preheat & Make Topping

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. While it’s heating up, let’s make our streusel topping! In a food processor (or using a pastry blender), combine cold cubed butter, brown sugar, flour, and pumpkin pie spice until it resembles coarse sand. Then stir in those chopped pecans for an extra crunch!

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Remove your casserole from the fridge and sprinkle that delicious streusel topping evenly over it. Bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done baking, drizzle some maple syrup over the top while it’s still warm. Let it cool slightly before slicing up this heavenly casserole.

Now gather your loved ones around the table—it’s time to dig into this delightful Pumpkin French Toast Casserole! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped topping if you like. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Creating the perfect Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a delightful experience, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Use day-old bread: Stale bread absorbs the pumpkin mixture better than fresh bread, ensuring every bite is full of flavor without becoming mushy.
• Let it chill overnight: For the best results, allow the casserole to sit in the refrigerator overnight. This gives the bread ample time to soak up all those delicious flavors.
• Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice to your taste. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the warm flavors even further.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the casserole before baking for an unexpected twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free bread to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, allowing everyone to enjoy this tasty treat!

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Serving your Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is all about presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some ideas that will make your breakfast spread extra special!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of pumpkin.
• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkling some additional chopped pecans on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a satisfying crunch.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives your casserole a beautiful finish and a touch of sweetness that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries brings a bright contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Bacon or Sausage Alternatives: Consider serving plant-based sausage or turkey bacon for a savory option that complements the sweet flavors of your casserole.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits in small cups for a healthy side that balances out the meal while adding delightful textures.
• Hash Brown Casserole: A cheesy potato hash brown casserole is another comforting side that pairs wonderfully with breakfast favorites—providing hearty satisfaction alongside your sweet casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your fabulous Pumpkin French Toast Casserole! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or special occasions. You can easily prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and reheat for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful recipe!

Can I make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and keep it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It makes for a delicious breakfast or snack!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can! Just ensure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly before adding it to your mixture.

Is there a dairy-free option for this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?

Yes! Substitute whole milk with almond milk or another non-dairy milk of your choice. The flavors will still be delicious!

What toppings go well with Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?

In addition to maple syrup, try adding chopped nuts, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole as much as I do! It’s a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch. With its delightful blend of pumpkin and warm spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!