Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

If you’re looking for a delightful way to start your day, this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is it! It’s a cozy dish that wraps you in warmth with its soft bread, creamy pumpkin, and a hint of spice. Perfect for chilly mornings or special gatherings, this casserole is not just delicious but also easy to prepare. Imagine savoring it at a family brunch or during the holidays—everyone will be reaching for seconds!

What makes this recipe even better is how it can be made ahead of time. You can soak the bread overnight and pop it in the oven the next morning, leaving you free to enjoy your guests’ company. Trust me, once you try this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole, it will become a cherished tradition in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have a stunning dish ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect for Sharing: This casserole serves up to 12 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or brunch parties.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the night before and let the flavors meld together in the fridge, so all you have to do is bake in the morning!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like maple syrup or whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole, you’ll need some straightforward and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Grab these items from your kitchen or local store:

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 Garnishes

• ½ cup maple syrup (for drizzling)
• Vanilla ice cream or thawed whipped topping (for serving)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Mix Up the Bread: Use challah or brioche instead of French bread for a richer flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the fall flavors even more.
• Fruit Addition: Incorporate fresh apples or cranberries into the mix for added sweetness and texture.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture

Start by adding the whole milk, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pure vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and eggs into a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until well combined—this step ensures no streaks of egg remain and gives your casserole that lovely smooth texture.

Step 2: Assemble in Baking Dish

Generously spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the cubed French bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. This base will soak up all those delicious flavors while baking!

Step 3: Soak It Up

Pour your creamy pumpkin mixture over the cubed bread. Use a fork or spoon to gently press down on those cubes so they soak up every bit of that flavorful mixture. Cover your baking dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours—or overnight if you’re planning ahead!

Step 4: Preheat Your Oven

When you’re ready to bake, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.

Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping

While waiting for your oven to heat up, make your streusel topping! Combine cold cubed butter, brown sugar, flour, and pumpkin pie spice in a food processor. Pulse until it resembles coarse sand. If you don’t have one handy, using a pastry blender works just as well! Transfer it to a bowl and stir in those yummy chopped pecans.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Remove your casserole from the fridge and sprinkle that irresistible streusel topping evenly over it. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, drizzle some maple syrup on top while it’s still warm. Allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped topping if you like—a truly comforting way to enjoy breakfast!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Creating the perfect Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to make your dish truly shine.

• Use day-old bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy. Day-old French bread has the right texture to soak up the pumpkin mixture without turning mushy.
• Let it chill overnight: For the best flavor and texture, prepare the casserole the night before and let it chill in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customize your spices: If you love a little extra warmth, feel free to add more pumpkin pie spice or even a pinch of nutmeg for a personalized touch.
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean!
• Serve warm: This casserole is best enjoyed warm out of the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and to enhance those cozy aromas.

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Serving your Pumpkin French Toast Casserole can elevate its appeal and create a delightful breakfast experience! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the rich flavors.
• Cinnamon dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances its spiced profile.
• Fresh fruit: Slices of banana or berries provide a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

• Maple sausage links: These sweet and savory sausages pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the casserole, creating a balanced plate.
• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness, making your breakfast feel vibrant and wholesome.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit offers a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the casserole.
• Green smoothie: A refreshing green smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk adds nutrients and balances out this indulgent dish.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep! It can be assembled ahead of time, making your mornings easier and more delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the casserole into individual portions.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• For reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired portion on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave for quicker reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious casserole!

Can I make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg required, or replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.

How long does Pumpkin French Toast Casserole need to chill?

You should chill the casserole for at least 3 hours. This allows the bread to soak up all that wonderful pumpkin mixture, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful!

Can I add other flavors to my Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for an extra kick of flavor.

What is the best way to serve Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?

Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped topping for a decadent breakfast treat. Enjoy it as a special brunch dish too!

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is truly something special. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth, comfort, and delightful flavors that will make any breakfast feel like a celebration. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your own twists and favorite toppings—happy cooking!