Description
This Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a delightful baked twist on the classic French toast, infused with warm pumpkin spice flavors and sweet maple syrup. Perfect for a cozy brunch or make-ahead breakfast, this dish combines tender brioche cubes soaked in a rich pumpkin custard and baked until golden and fluffy.
Ingredients
Bread
- 6 cups cubed brioche or challah bread
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine with bread: Place the cubed brioche or challah bread into a greased baking dish. Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, gently pressing the bread down to soak up the custard evenly.
- Soak the bread: Allow the bread and custard mixture to sit and soak for about 20 minutes, ensuring the bread absorbs the flavors and custard thoroughly.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Once soaked, bake the casserole uncovered for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is puffed and set in the middle.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Optionally, add a streusel topping before baking for extra crunch or assemble the casserole the night before and bake in the morning for convenience.
Notes
- Add a streusel topping for a crunchy texture.
- For convenience, assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate; bake in the morning.
- Use brioche or challah for the best texture and flavor.
- Serve with extra maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
