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Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole is a cozy fall breakfast that brings together soft bread soaked in a creamy pumpkin custard with warm spices and a crunchy pecan topping. This dish is perfect for slow mornings when you want something comforting and impressive without working too hard. It fills the kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, setting the tone for a festive brunch or a special weekend treat.
I first made this casserole for a family brunch and it quickly became a cherished tradition. Now it pops up every fall, much to everyone’s delight.
Ingredients
- 8 cups stale French bread: torn into pieces, day-old bread soaks up the custard without getting mushy
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: 100 percent pure for natural sweetness and creaminess
- 6 large eggs: for a rich custard that holds the bake together
- 2 cups whole milk or almond or oat milk: use what you prefer for creaminess and moisture
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup: natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: warm spice that defines the dish
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: adds a subtle but essential warmth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: balances the sweetness and spices
- 1 cup chopped pecans: toasted for crunch and a nutty flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Carefully set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius and grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Custard:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth. This custard will soak the bread.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Place all torn bread pieces evenly in your greased baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread making sure every piece gets coated. Gently press down so the bread soaks up the custard well.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly on top of the soaked bread and custard mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. You want the casserole to puff up and turn a lovely golden brown. Remove and let it cool slightly before serving. Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup if you like.
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Pumpkin puree is my favorite ingredient here because it brings rich flavor and moisture without overpowering the spices. A family memory that stands out is when my kids begged for this casserole during a chilly weekend and then devoured seconds without any prompting.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers covered tightly in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave or oven until heated through to keep the texture appealing. This casserole also freezes well if you want to prep ahead.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds make great alternatives. Feel free to swap whole milk for your favorite plant-based milk like oat or almond milk to keep it dairy-free. For sweetness, honey can replace maple syrup but it will slightly change the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm topped with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream for indulgence. Fresh fruit such as sliced apples or berries complements the pumpkin flavor nicely. A cup of strong coffee or spiced chai really rounds out this breakfast experience.
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Cultural Context
French toast casseroles have long been a beloved comfort food in American brunch culture, often made for holidays or weekend gatherings. The addition of pumpkin and spices ties it to autumn traditions celebrated in many households across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best for this dish?
Stale French bread or brioche hold up well as they absorb the custard without becoming soggy, creating a fluffy texture.
- → Can I substitute the milk in the custard?
Yes, whole milk can be replaced with almond or oat milk to suit dietary preferences and add subtle flavor variations.
- → How do the spices affect the flavor?
Cinnamon and nutmeg provide warm, aromatic notes that complement the pumpkin’s natural sweetness, enriching the overall taste.
- → What’s the purpose of the pecans on top?
Chopped toasted pecans add a crunchy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that balances the soft custard and bread layers.
- → How long should the dish rest before serving?
Allowing it to cool slightly after baking helps the custard set for easier slicing and enhances the flavors.