Pumpkin French Toast Fall (Printer-Friendly Version)

Fluffy pumpkin-spiced French toast combining warm autumn spices and creamy puree for a hearty morning treat.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Bread

01 - 4 slices thick bread (brioche or challah)

→ Batter

02 - 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup whole milk (or non-dairy alternative)
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)

→ Cooking Fat

11 - Butter or oil for cooking

→ Toppings

12 - Maple syrup, for serving
13 - Powdered sugar (optional)
14 - Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, and milk until smooth and fully combined.
02 - Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and brown sugar if using. Whisk thoroughly until spices are evenly distributed and aroma develops.
03 - Allow the batter to rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld while preparing cooking equipment.
04 - Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
05 - Dip each bread slice into the batter, allowing it to soak for a few seconds per side to absorb the mixture completely.
06 - Place soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden and slightly crisp, then flip and cook the opposite side for another 3-4 minutes.
07 - Continue with remaining slices, adding butter or oil as needed and maintaining medium heat to avoid burning.
08 - Stack two slices per serving or serve open-faced. Drizzle generously with maple syrup, sprinkle optional powdered sugar, and top with chopped nuts if desired.
09 - Consider pairing with crispy bacon or sausage, or add a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Leftover batter can be refrigerated up to two days; stir well before reuse.
02 - For variation, add chocolate chips or dried cranberries to the batter before soaking the bread.