1-First Step: Mixing the Custard Begin by whisking together the pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a shallow dish. Add the half and half and blend until smooth. This creates the custard base that infuses the bread with rich flavor.

For vegan adaptations, replace eggs with a flax or chia mixture. Let the custard rest briefly to let the spices blend. Use a larger pan if preparing multiple slices to keep things efficient.

2-Second and Third Steps: Preparing and Soaking the Bread Select 9 slices of hearty bread like brioche or rustic French bread. Preheat your griddle to 350 degrees or a skillet over medium heat. Dip each slice into the custard for at least one minute per side to ensure good absorption without sogginess.

Bread that’s a day old works best for this step. After soaking, shake off excess and get ready to cook. For more breakfast ideas, you might enjoy this blueberry cottage cheese breakfast bake, which pairs well with Pumpkin French Toast.

3-Fourth and Fifth Steps: Cooking and Checking Doneness Butter the griddle and cook the soaked slices until golden brown on one side, then flip and repeat. Transfer to a 225-degree oven to keep warm. Aim for an internal texture that’s cooked through but moist.

If you’re baking instead, use a greased rimmed baking sheet at 400 degrees for about 10 minutes per side. This method is great for batches and helps avoid sticking issues.

4-Sixth Step: Serving and Adaptations Serve warm with maple syrup and your favorite toppings. Total active time is around 15 minutes, but you can prep ahead by soaking slices and refrigerating. For added richness, substitute half and half with lactose-free whole milk if needed.

This guide pulls from proven directions, ensuring your Pumpkin French Toast is a hit. For a classic twist, check out this perfect French toast recipe for more inspiration.