Celebrate the flavors of the season with this cozy and decadent Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast. Golden slices of brioche are soaked in a warmly spiced pumpkin custard, then pan-fried to crisp perfection and topped with whipped cream, maple syrup, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s everything autumn should taste like, right on your breakfast plate.

This recipe transforms ordinary mornings into a comforting escape with every bite. Whether you’re serving a crowd at brunch or savoring a slow weekend morning alone, this pumpkin twist on a breakfast classic is sure to become your new seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Fall Pumpkin French Toast

It’s an easy and festive upgrade to your usual French toast that brings warmth and spice to chilly mornings. With a touch of pumpkin puree and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, this recipe packs in the fall flavor without overcomplicating your morning.

What Kind of Bread Is Best for Pumpkin French Toast?

Thick-sliced brioche or challah works best. Their soft texture and slight sweetness complement the pumpkin custard, and they hold up beautifully when soaked. Day-old bread is ideal since it absorbs more of the spiced mixture without getting soggy.

Ingredients for the Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast

Brioche Bread
This rich, slightly sweet bread is perfect for soaking up the pumpkin-spiced custard without falling apart.

Pumpkin Puree
Adds moisture and a warm, earthy flavor that turns this into a true fall recipe.

Eggs
The base for the custard mixture, helping bind everything and create that soft, creamy center.

Milk
Thins the custard slightly while keeping it rich. Whole milk is best, but 2% works too.

Brown Sugar
Brings caramel-like sweetness that enhances the pumpkin flavor.

Vanilla Extract
Balances the spices and ties all the flavors together.

Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves
The holy trinity of fall spices. They bring depth, warmth, and aroma to every bite.

Butter
Used for frying, giving each slice a golden, crisp edge.

Maple Syrup & Whipped Cream
Optional toppings that elevate each slice into a breakfast treat.

How To Make the Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast

Step 1: Whisk the Pumpkin Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup pumpkin puree, 3 large eggs, 3/4 cup milk, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Slice 6 thick pieces of brioche bread. Dip each slice into the pumpkin custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20 seconds on each side so it fully absorbs the flavor.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, cook the slices for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed, adding more butter between batches.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Plate the French toast and top with a generous drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve immediately.

How to Serve This Pumpkin French Toast

This recipe makes 6 slices and serves 3 people generously (2 slices per person). Pair with coffee or apple cider, and maybe a side of crispy bacon or scrambled eggs for a hearty fall breakfast spread.

Best Way to Store Pumpkin French Toast

Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet for best texture. You can also freeze the cooked slices individually wrapped and reheat straight from the freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?
No, canned pie filling already contains sugar and spices which could throw off the balance of this recipe. Stick with plain pumpkin puree.

What if I don’t have brioche?
Challah or Texas toast are great substitutes. Even French bread can work if sliced thick and slightly stale.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free butter. It will still be deliciously golden.

Can I prepare the custard the night before?
Absolutely. Mix the custard and refrigerate it overnight for easy prep in the morning.

What toppings go best?
Maple syrup and whipped cream are classic. Try chopped pecans, caramel drizzle, or even a scoop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

Want More Breakfast Ideas?

If you love this fall French toast, you’ll want to try these cozy morning meals next:

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole for make-ahead ease.
Skillet Breakfast Hash for a savory twist.
Cottage Cheese Spinach Crustless Quiche for protein-packed mornings.
Breakfast Burritos that are freezer-friendly and customizable.
Pumpkin Bread for more fall-inspired baking.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add pecans or try caramel sauce? Did you swap in sourdough? I love hearing your creative twists and morning traditions.

For more cozy fall recipes, visit Life With Livia.

Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast

Author: Livia Scott
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 slices
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Start your morning with the cozy warmth of this Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast. It’s a quick breakfast that captures the season with spiced pumpkin custard soaked into thick brioche slices, pan-fried to golden perfection. Whether you’re after breakfast ideas, easy recipes, or healthy-ish comfort food, this dish checks every box. It’s perfect for slow mornings, weekend brunch, or festive gatherings—bringing flavor, aroma, and joy to the table.

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves until smooth.

2. Slice the brioche into 6 thick pieces. Dip each slice into the pumpkin custard, letting it soak for about 20 seconds on each side.

3. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the soaked bread slices for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

4. Work in batches if necessary, adding more butter as needed between batches.

5. Serve the French toast hot with maple syrup, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Notes

Use day-old brioche or challah to avoid sogginess.

You can prepare the custard mix the night before for quicker mornings.

Top with chopped pecans or caramel drizzle for a holiday-ready variation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 slices
Calories: 325
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: fall breakfast, pumpkin French toast, easy breakfast ideas, brunch recipes, seasonal recipes