This Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole is warm, cozy, and super easy to make! It’s packed with fall flavors like pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making it perfect for chilly mornings.
Who can resist that delicious smell filling the kitchen? I love serving it with maple syrup and whipped cream. It’s like a hug in a dish! 🥞💛
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Thick-Cut Bread: Brioche or challah works wonders for this dish, giving it that rich texture. If you can’t find these, try using Texas toast or even a sturdy white bread. Just make sure it’s thick-cut to hold up during baking.
Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not the pie filling, which has added sugar and spices. If you want to make it from scratch, roast some pumpkin and blend it until smooth. But canned puree is definitely a time-saver!
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for binding the casserole. If you’re looking for a vegan option, flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) can be an alternative, although it might alter the texture a bit.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk gives richness, but you can use any milk you have on hand, like almond or oat milk, which works great for a dairy-free version. If you want a lighter dish, skip the heavy cream and use an extra cup of milk instead.
Pecans: They add a nice crunch, but if you have nut allergies, feel free to leave them out or substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture.
How Do I Ensure the Custard is Perfectly Absorbed?
The trick to a delicious French toast casserole is allowing the bread to soak up the custard mixture. Here’s what to do:
- After pouring the custard over the bread, gently press the bread down using a spatula. This helps each piece soak up the liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if you can. This soaking time really makes a difference.
- Check that the top layer of bread is submerged; if some pieces stick out, they may not absorb as much flavor.
This is a great opportunity to prepare it the night before for an easy breakfast. Just pop it in the oven in the morning!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah), about 10 cups cubed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (for layering)
For Serving:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Maple syrup
- Additional ground cinnamon for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time and at least 4 hours for chilling (preferably overnight). You’ll then bake it for 45 to 55 minutes. Perfect for a relaxed morning breakfast or brunch gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole pan. This will help prevent sticking. Cut the thick-cut bread into cubes and spread half of the cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish.
2. Layer with Cream Cheese and Pecans:
Next, dollop the softened cream cheese in small spoonfuls over the layer of bread. This will create delicious pockets of creaminess. Now, sprinkle half of the chopped pecans on top for a delightful crunch.
3. Add More Bread:
Take the remaining bread cubes and layer them evenly over the cream cheese and pecans, covering them completely with more of that delicious bread.
4. Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
5. Soak the Bread:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread in the baking dish. Make sure to press down gently on the bread to help it soak up the custard.
6. Chill the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This step allows the bread to absorb all the flavors and makes it extra tasty!
7. Preheat and Prepare to Bake:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole and sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans on top for added flavor.
8. Bake Until Golden:
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, a light dusting of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy the cozy fall flavors of this Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the bread completely before cubing it. If you want to speed up the thawing process, you can cut the bread into cubes while it’s still slightly frozen. This method actually helps prevent the bread from becoming too soggy when soaked in the custard.
What Can I Substitute for Pumpkin Puree?
If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash puree as an alternative. Just ensure it’s pure and unsweetened for the best flavor in the casserole.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. Use dairy-free cream cheese for layering as well, and check the labels for sugar content in your substitutions.