When I first made this pumpkin French toast casserole, it felt like I uncovered the secret recipe to happiness. The warm pumpkin spice flavors filling my kitchen, combined with the buttery pecan streusel on top, was a dream come true. It was such a crowd-pleaser at brunch, and the convenience of preparing it the night before made my morning stress-free.
This dish is perfect for cozy fall mornings, holiday gatherings, or even an indulgent breakfast-for-dinner treat. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like slicing into a warm, custardy casserole packed with pumpkin goodness. Once you try it, I’m sure it’ll become a new seasonal favorite in your home too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This pumpkin French toast casserole isn’t just delicious–it has so much more to offer!
Effortless Make-Ahead Option
The prep is simple, and you can make it the night before. That means no scrambling in the kitchen when guests arrive. By preparing it ahead of time, you can save yourself stress on the big day and focus on other tasks. It’s the perfect recipe to make your life easier, especially when hosting or busy during the holiday season.
Packed with Cozy Flavors
Pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg come together in every bite for an irresistible fall-inspired treat. These warm, comforting spices bring the essence of autumn right to your table. Every bite is a cozy reminder of cooler weather and the joys of fall baking.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a Sunday brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a quick weekday meal, this recipe fits any schedule. It’s the ultimate go-to for gatherings, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan. The flavor and ease make it suitable for casual days or special events, ensuring you’re always prepared.
Versatile for Dietary Needs
You can easily adjust the recipe to make it dairy-free, gluten-free, or nut-free without sacrificing its amazing taste. Substituting ingredients is a breeze, allowing anyone with dietary restrictions to enjoy this recipe. No matter your dietary needs, you can still indulge in the delicious flavors and comforting texture.
Feeds a Crowd
One pan serves plenty, making it ideal for feeding groups with minimal effort. It’s the perfect recipe when you’re hosting a gathering or preparing for a family meal. Not only is it easy to make, but it also offers plenty of servings to go around without any fuss.
Cooking Time
Here’s what you’ll need to plan for making this comforting dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: At least 4 hours (overnight recommended)
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
Ingredients
You’ll need just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients.
- Day-old bread (French, brioche, or challah)
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Pumpkin purée
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Pumpkin spice
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Pecans
Variations
Make this recipe your own with a few creative tweaks!
- Gluten-Free Switch: Replace the bread with gluten-free bread and use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute for the streusel.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk and substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans and opt for additional streusel topping or pumpkin seeds instead.
- Extra Sweetness: Add a drizzle of caramel or maple syrup after baking for an extra indulgent twist!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 13×9 Baking Dish: For even cooking and custard absorption.
- Mixing Bowls: To whisk together the custard and streusel.
- Whisk: For combining the wet ingredients easily.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?
Let’s walk through the steps for crafting this flavorful breakfast dish!
Step 1: Prep Your Bread
Cube your day-old bread into 1-inch pieces for better soakage. Grease your baking dish, then add the bread cubes. If you don’t have stale bread, pop fresh bread into the oven at 350°F for about 12-18 minutes to firm it up. 🥖
Step 2: Make the Custard
Whisk together the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin purée, eggs, vanilla, and pumpkin spice in a mixing bowl. Pour this mixture over your bread cubes, making sure they’re fully coated and evenly soaked. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. 🎃
Step 3: Prepare the Streusel
Use your fingers to combine butter, brown sugar, flour, pecans, and pumpkin spice in a separate bowl until crumbly. You can even prepare this ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. 🍂
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
When the casserole is ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Evenly sprinkle the streusel mixture over the top. Bake for about 50 minutes or until the custard is no longer jiggly. If the top starts browning too much, tent it loosely with foil. Cool for a few minutes before serving. 🍁
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Slice into warm, golden squares and top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or even whipped cream. Pair with your favorite cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate fall breakfast! ☕
Tips for Making the Recipe
Here’s how to achieve the perfect pumpkin French toast casserole every time!
- Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread absorbs the custard better and prevents a soggy texture.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Allowing it to rest overnight enhances flavor and ensures the bread is fully soaked.
- Customize the Streusel: Don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ins like coconut flakes or chocolate chips.
How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Casserole?
Presentation matters, especially for a dish as cozy as this one! Serve it in the baking dish straight from the oven for a rustic centerpiece. Dust powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish or drizzle warm maple syrup for a sticky-sweet treat. Hosting brunch? Garnish the edges of the platter with pecans or pumpkin seeds for added flair.
Nutritional Information
Each serving offers a balance of indulgence and comfort.
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 20g
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is as practical as it is tasty.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Freezing: Slice the casserole into portions, wrap them in plastic, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven.
This pumpkin French toast casserole is more than just a recipe–it’s a must-have tradition for fall mornings and holiday meals. Its warm, spiced flavors and fluffy, custard-like texture will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Happy baking! 🍂🎃
For a visual guide, watch the full recipe video here:
Pumpkin French Toast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- Day-old bread French, brioche, or challah
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Pumpkin purée
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Pumpkin spice
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Pecans
Instructions
- Cube your day-old bread into 1-inch pieces for better soakage. Grease your baking dish, then add the bread cubes. If you don’t have stale bread, pop fresh bread into the oven at 350°F for about 12-18 minutes to firm it up. 🥖
- Whisk together the milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin purée, eggs, vanilla, and pumpkin spice in a mixing bowl. Pour this mixture over your bread cubes, making sure they’re fully coated and evenly soaked. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. 🎃
- Use your fingers to combine butter, brown sugar, flour, pecans, and pumpkin spice in a separate bowl until crumbly. You can even prepare this ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. 🍂
- When the casserole is ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Evenly sprinkle the streusel mixture over the top. Bake for about 50 minutes or until the custard is no longer jiggly. If the top starts browning too much, tent it loosely with foil. Cool for a few minutes before serving. 🍁
- Slice into warm, golden squares and top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or even whipped cream. Pair with your favorite cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate fall breakfast!
Notes
- Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread absorbs the custard better and prevents a soggy texture.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Allowing it to rest overnight enhances flavor and ensures the bread is fully soaked.
- Customize the Streusel: Don’t be afraid to get creative with add-ins like coconut flakes or chocolate chips.
