When the cool breeze of fall settles in and the leaves start turning shades of amber and crimson, nothing feels more comforting than a cozy breakfast that captures the season. Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast is that warm hug on a plate. It takes the comforting tradition of French toast and elevates it with rich pumpkin puree, hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, and golden, buttery slices that crisp perfectly on the skillet.

Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch with family, or just want to slow down with a warm plate and a hot coffee, this recipe is the one to turn to. It’s indulgent yet simple, seasonal yet timeless, and it brings together everything we love about autumn mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast

This French toast isn’t just about flavor—though that alone is enough to win you over. It’s also about the texture: crisp on the outside, custard-like inside, with the perfect blend of pumpkin spice in every bite. The recipe is quick enough for busy mornings but fancy enough for holiday guests. And it’s incredibly flexible too. Whether you’re making it dairy-free, gluten-free, or topping it with maple whipped cream, it adapts beautifully.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

Thick, sturdy bread is key to a good French toast that doesn’t fall apart. Brioche and challah are my top picks—they soak up the custard mixture like a dream and toast up golden and fluffy. Texas toast or even day-old sourdough can work well too. Avoid thin sandwich bread, as it tends to get too soggy and won’t hold the pumpkin custard properly.

Ingredients for the Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast

To make this fall favorite sing with flavor, you need a few key ingredients that blend classic French toast with cozy autumn notes. Here’s what you’ll need:

Thick-sliced brioche or challah bread
Pumpkin puree
Eggs
Whole milk or cream
Brown sugar
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Salt
Butter

Each ingredient plays a special role. Pumpkin puree gives the dish its signature flavor and color, while eggs and milk create that custardy soak. Brown sugar and vanilla sweeten it gently, and cinnamon and nutmeg add the unmistakable scent and spice of fall. Don’t skip the salt; it enhances every sweet and spicy note.

How To Make the Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast

Step 1: Whisk Together the Custard

In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Lay the slices of bread into a shallow dish or tray. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the bread and let it soak for at least 2 minutes on each side. The bread should absorb the custard but not fall apart.

Step 3: Heat and Cook

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a pat of butter. Carefully place the soaked bread onto the skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while hot. Add your favorite toppings like a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, whipped cream, or even toasted pecans for extra crunch.

How to Serve and Store Your French Toast

This Fall Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast serves about 4 people, making it great for a small family brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast. Serve it warm right off the skillet with toppings of your choice. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet to keep them crispy.

You can also freeze cooked slices—just layer them with parchment paper and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat straight from frozen for a quick and seasonal breakfast.

What to Serve With Pumpkin French Toast?

Fresh Apple Slices with Cinnamon

Crisp and juicy, apples tossed with cinnamon bring out the autumn flavors in the toast.

Maple-Glazed Bacon

The sweet and salty combo balances the richness of the French toast perfectly.

Vanilla Yogurt with Granola

Creamy and crunchy, this pairing adds texture and a touch of tang.

Scrambled Eggs with Chives

A savory side rounds out the meal with protein and a hint of herby freshness.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Why not go all in? Pair your breakfast with the season’s favorite coffee drink.

Toasted Pecans or Walnuts

Add some on top of the toast or in a bowl on the side for crunch and nutty warmth.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

For a heartier breakfast plate, these bring natural sweetness and color.

Whipped Ricotta with Honey

Spreadable, light, and subtly sweet—a dreamy companion to warm toast.

Want More Breakfast Ideas?

If this pumpkin French toast is your kind of cozy, you’ll love these other breakfast and brunch winners:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how you made it your own. Did you swap in almond milk or try a cinnamon whipped topping? I love hearing how others make these breakfast classics their own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and comforting seasonal plates on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy creation.