Name: Cozy Pumpkin French Toast for a Perfect Fall Morning
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 slices Ciabatta or Sourdough Bread (day-old, ¾-inch thick); ¾ cup Almond Milk (or any plant-based milk); ½ cup Pumpkin Puree (pure pumpkin puree for best taste); 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (plus more for serving); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (adjust to taste); ¼ teaspoon Nutmeg (freshly grated preferred); ⅛ teaspoon Sea Salt (or kosher salt); Coconut Oil (for brushing the skillet); Toasted Nuts (almonds or pecans); Greek Yogurt or Vegan Whipped Cream (for a creamy finish)

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As I stood in my kitchen, wafts of cinnamon and nutmeg began to swaddle me like a cozy blanket—a true invitation to fall. The stars of my breakfast today? A delightful Vegan Pumpkin French Toast that promises to transform your mornings with its warm, inviting flavors. This recipe is a breeze to prepare and perfectly suited for both leisurely weekend brunches and busy weekday mornings. Each slice becomes a tender vessel for rich pumpkin goodness, enhanced with sweet maple syrup that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Plus, it caters to various dietary preferences, being both vegan and easily adaptable for gluten-free diets. Are you ready to dive into this sumptuous fall treat that will have everyone racing to the breakfast table? Let’s get started!

Why is Pumpkin French Toast a Must-Try?

Cozy, Fall Flavors: The beautiful blend of warm spices and pumpkin pureé creates a nostalgic taste that perfectly embodies the essence of fall.

Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is fully vegan, so everyone can enjoy it without compromising their dietary choices.

Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in no time—perfect for busy mornings!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family brunch or a gathering with friends, this Pumpkin French Toast is sure to impress and satisfy all tastes.

Versatile Options: Mix it up by adding toppings like toasted pecans, or swapping out almond milk for your favorite plant-based alternative. For even more crowd-pleasers, you might also enjoy pairing it with Vanilla French Beignets for a colorful spread!

Pumpkin French Toast Ingredients

For the Batter
• Bread (8 slices ciabatta or sourdough, day-old, ¾-inch thick) – This hearty base provides structure and soaks up the mixture beautifully.
• Almond Milk (¾ cup) – Adds creaminess; any plant-based milk works or substitute with dairy milk if not vegan.
• Pumpkin Puree (½ cup) – Serves as an egg replacer, resulting in a custard-like mixture rich in pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree for the best taste.
• Maple Syrup (1 tablespoon, plus more for serving) – Sweetens and enhances flavor; agave syrup can be used as a vegan alternative if preferred.
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Infuses warmth; feel free to adjust to suit your personal taste.
• Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon) – Adds cozy depth; freshly grated nutmeg can make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Sea Salt (⅛ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; kosher salt is a suitable substitute.
• Coconut Oil – For brushing the skillet; offers a non-stick surface and a hint of coconut flavor; can be replaced with vegetable oil or vegan butter.

Optional Toppings
• Toasted Nuts (almonds or pecans) – Adds crunch and richness; a delightful contrast to the soft French toast.
• Greek Yogurt or Vegan Whipped Cream – For a creamy finish; enhances the indulgence of your breakfast treat.

Get ready to whisk these ingredients together and create a delightful Pumpkin French Toast that’s sure to become a fall favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin French Toast

Step 1: Whisk the Batter
In a medium bowl, combine ¾ cup of almond milk, ½ cup of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon of sea salt. Whisk the mixture vigorously for about 2 minutes until it becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. The vibrant orange hue will indicate that your batter is ready for the bread.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Lay out 8 slices of day-old ciabatta or sourdough bread on a large platter or dish. Gently drizzle the pumpkin mixture over each slice, using your hands to coat all sides evenly. Ensure the bread is thoroughly soaked, allowing each piece to absorb that delightful combination of flavors, roughly 3 to 4 minutes for optimal saturation.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot (you can test it by sprinkling a little water to see if it sizzles), add a small pat of coconut oil to brush the surface lightly. The oil will create a non-stick layer and provide a hint of coconut flavor to the pumpkin French toast, making everything crisp and golden.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Carefully place the soaked bread slices into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each slice for about 2 minutes on one side, or until you see golden brown edges forming. Flip the slices gently using a spatula, allowing the other side to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve Warm
Once the pumpkin French toast is beautifully golden and cooked through, remove the slices from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle with additional maple syrup and top with any desired toppings like toasted nuts or vegan whipped cream. Serve immediately for the best flavor and warmth, enveloping your kitchen in the cozy aromas of fall.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Pumpkin French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy mornings! You can soak the bread in the pumpkin batter up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Once coated, simply cover the bread with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to serve, heat your skillet and cook the soaked bread as directed, ensuring each slice is golden and crisp. To maintain the quality, avoid overcrowding the skillet, and feel free to reheat leftovers gently in the skillet or microwave for a quick breakfast any day of the week. Enjoy a delightful start to your morning with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Vegan Pumpkin French Toast

Indulging in warm, spiced slices of pumpkin French toast sets the stage for a delightful fall breakfast, but what can elevate this experience further?

Sunny-Side-Up Eggs: The runny yolk adds a rich creaminess that pairs beautifully with the spiced toast, creating a balanced breakfast plate. Each bite becomes a harmonious blend of flavors.
Breakfast Casserole: A hearty breakfast casserole with cheese and vegetables complements the sweet and spicy notes of the French toast, making for a satisfying combination. The casserole’s savory profile contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of pumpkin.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with apples, pears, and berries introduces a bright, fruity contrast that enhances the warm spices of your toast, bringing vibrant freshness to the table.
Chia Seed Pudding: For a silky dessert-like option, serve chia seed pudding. Its creamy texture and light sweetness beautifully offset the richness of pumpkin French toast, making every bite a delight.
Maple Pecan Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and a nutty flavor, creating a deliciously satisfying combination that only enhances your cozy morning. The nutty undertones fit right in with the spices.
Hot Apple Cider: Embrace the essence of fall by serving warm apple cider alongside your French toast. This drink provides a comforting spice, perfectly mirroring the flavors in your dish.
Cinnamon Coffee: A warm cup of cinnamon-infused coffee complements the sweet tones of the pumpkin while keeping you cozy all morning long. The subtle spice pairs effortlessly with your breakfast.
Vegan Whipped Cream: Top your French toast with a dollop of vegan whipped cream to introduce a light, airy touch. It elevates the dish to dreamy dessert status, making it feel indulgent yet comforting.
Toasted Almonds: A sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a delightful crunch and rich nuttiness that beautifully contrasts the fluffy, spiced French toast. This brings an extra layer of texture to your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin French Toast

Fridge: Store leftover pumpkin French toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezer: Freeze leftovers by placing layers of toast with parchment paper between them in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat slices in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side or microwave for about 30 seconds, until warmed through.

Best Enjoyed Fresh: For optimal flavor and texture, this vegan pumpkin French toast is best enjoyed immediately after cooking.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin French Toast

Mix Well: Ensure the batter is whisked thoroughly to avoid clumps. Any thick spots won’t coat the bread evenly, affecting the flavor.

Soak Overnight: For a richer flavor and texture, consider soaking the bread in the pumpkin mixture overnight, allowing it to absorb all those delicious spices.

Don’t Overcrowd: Cooking in batches ensures even cooking and browning. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to soggy toast instead of crispy perfection.

Use Day-Old Bread: Day-old ciabatta or sourdough absorbs the mixture better than fresh bread, giving you that ideal soft yet crispy texture.

Adapt to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the spices according to personal preferences. More cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the pumpkin French toast to your liking.

Pumpkin French Toast Variations

Customize this delicious recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making every bite uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk with any plant-based milk like oat milk or soy milk for a creamy, non-dairy twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste or texture. This ensures everyone can indulge in this delightful breakfast!
Spice It Up: Enhance the spice profile by adding a pinch of ginger or allspice to the batter; this will add warmth and depth.
Crunchy Toppings: Add toasted nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch and added richness in every bite.
Creamy Swaps: Serve with Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt instead of whipped cream for a creamy finish that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.
Sweeten Up: Swap maple syrup for a drizzle of honey or agave nectar for a different kind of sweetness that complements the spices.
Add Fruit: Top your pumpkin French toast with fresh berries or banana slices for a fruity flair and a pop of color on your plate.

For even more delightful options, don’t forget to check out our recipe for Croissant French Toast for a twist on traditional French toast, or try your hand at Vanilla French Beignets for a truly indulgent brunch!

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread works best for Pumpkin French Toast?
Absolutely! Day-old ciabatta or sourdough bread is ideal as it soaks up the pumpkin mixture beautifully without becoming soggy. If you’re using fresh bread, consider letting it sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit.

How do I store leftovers of Pumpkin French Toast?
You can store leftover pumpkin French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the texture amazing, reheat gently in a non-stick skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Pumpkin French Toast?
Yes, indeed! For freezing, stack the French toast between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag and ensure all air is squeezed out to prevent freezer burn. It can stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

How can I ensure my Pumpkin French Toast doesn’t turn out soggy?
To prevent sogginess, I recommend allowing the bread slices to soak in the pumpkin batter for about 3-4 minutes—just enough for flavor absorption without being overly saturated. Also, cooking in batches ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to mushiness.

Is this Pumpkin French Toast suitable for those with allergies?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan and can easily be made gluten-free by substituting the bread with gluten-free options. Always check specific brands for potential allergens if you’re cooking for someone with allergies.

Can I use a different type of milk instead of almond milk?
Very much so! There are many fabulous alternatives. You can swap almond milk for soy milk, oat milk, or even regular dairy milk if you’re not sticking to vegan. Adjust based on what you have on hand for a creamy touch!