Description
This Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast combines the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with caramelized apples for a cozy, autumn-inspired morning treat. Thick-cut bread is soaked in a pumpkin-spiced custard, pan-fried to a golden crisp, and topped with sweet, tender apples, maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar for a comforting and flavorful breakfast.
Ingredients
Scale
French Toast Custard
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast)
- Butter or neutral oil for frying
Caramelized Apples Topping
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Splash of lemon juice
Toppings
- Maple syrup for serving
- Butter for serving
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, whole milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak the bread: Pour the pumpkin custard mixture into a shallow dish. Dip each slice of thick-cut bread into the mixture, soaking it for 20 to 30 seconds per side, allowing the custard to fully absorb.
- Heat the skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or a neutral oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the French toast: Place the soaked bread slices onto the heated skillet and cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Sauté the apples: While the French toast cooks, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Add butter, diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples become tender and caramelized.
- Serve and garnish: Plate the French toast, top with the warm caramelized apples, add a pat of butter, drizzle with maple syrup, and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a finishing touch.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bread like brioche or challah for best texture; thinner bread may become soggy.
- Allow the bread to soak sufficiently so it absorbs the custard without falling apart.
- Adjust spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to taste for a milder or stronger autumn flavor.
- Caramelize the apples until tender but still holding shape to complement the soft French toast.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
