Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Pie French Toast:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or your preferred type)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional for a sweeter toast)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 8 slices of thick bread (such as Texas toast or challah)
For the Homemade Pumpkin Syrup:
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Extra cinnamon
- Whipped cream
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Pie French Toast Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs and whisk until fully combined. Add 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of sugar (if you like a sweeter French toast), 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Continue whisking until all the ingredients are thoroughly blended and smooth. This pumpkin mixture will be used to coat the bread slices.
Step 2: Dip the Bread
Take each slice of thick bread and dip it into the pumpkin mixture. Ensure that both sides of the bread are well-coated but not oversaturated. Let the bread soak for just a few seconds on each side to absorb the pumpkin custard mixture.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread turns a golden brown and develops a slightly crisp texture. Flip the slices once during cooking to ensure even browning.
Repeat the process with the remaining bread slices, working in batches if necessary. Keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (set to 200°F) if serving multiple people at once.
Step 4: Make the Homemade Pumpkin Syrup
While the French toast is cooking, prepare the homemade pumpkin syrup. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of maple syrup, 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the pumpkin puree is fully incorporated. Heat the syrup over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve the Pumpkin Pie French Toast
Once the French toast is cooked and golden brown, serve it immediately. Drizzle each serving with the homemade pumpkin syrup. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar or extra cinnamon, and add whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.