Pumpkin French toast is one of those breakfast dishes that just sings of autumn. It’s comforting, warmly spiced, and always a treat when the mornings get a little cooler.

I’ve been making pumpkin French toast for years, tweaking the recipe here and there. I like to think I’ve finally landed on the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

This recipe isn’t just your average pumpkin French toast. It has a special touch that makes it truly exceptional.

The secret? A spiced pecan crumble topping. Oh my, y’all. This crunchy, sweet, and warmly spiced crumble adds the most wonderful contrast to the soft, custardy French toast.

It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want to slow down, savor each bite, and maybe even linger over a second cup of coffee. That’s what fall is all about, isn’t it? Simple pleasures and good food.

French toast is a weekend morning staple in my home. It’s comforting, versatile, and a blank canvas for so many flavors. I’ve always loved playing around with different variations.

This pumpkin french toast recipe elevates the classic by infusing it with warm autumn spices and a touch of pumpkin puree. It is a delightful seasonal treat.

What truly sets this recipe apart, though, is the spiced pecan crumble topping. The combination of crunchy pecans, brown sugar, and spices creates a textural contrast that balances the soft, custardy french toast perfectly.

The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the egg mixture, ensuring that the bread soaks up all the flavor without becoming soggy.

Using challah or brioche bread is key. These breads have a rich, buttery flavor and a slightly dense texture, which allows them to hold their shape well during the soaking and cooking process. They are truly wonderful.

Baking the french toast in the oven ensures even cooking and prevents burning. It also frees up your stovetop for other breakfast creations, or simply for sipping your morning coffee. I like to relax while I cook.

The spiced pecan crumble is added during the last few minutes of baking, allowing it to toast to golden-brown perfection. You’ll know it’s ready when the aroma fills your kitchen.

Ultimately, this recipe works because it combines familiar flavors in a new and exciting way. It’s comforting, delicious, and just a little bit special, y’all.

Now, let’s gather all the goodies we need to make this pumpkin French toast a reality. We’re not just making any old French toast, mind you; we’re elevating it with a delightful spiced pecan crumble that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a bit of autumn sunshine on a plate.

• For the French Toast:
• 6 slices of your favorite bread (I prefer brioche or challah)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, for cooking

• For the Spiced Pecan Crumble:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces

That spiced pecan crumble, though, is where the magic truly happens. That buttery, nutty, cinnamon-kissed topping adds a textural counterpoint and a layer of warmth that complements the pumpkin perfectly. Don’t skip it, y’all; it’s worth the extra effort.

Making pumpkin French toast is a simple joy, especially when you add a little something extra. This recipe elevates the classic with a warm spiced pecan crumble that turns every bite into a celebration of fall flavors. Let’s walk through it, step by delicious step.

1. Prepare the Spiced Pecan Crumble

First, in a medium bowl, combine your chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set this aside, because y’all, this is the magic that makes this French toast sing.

2. Whisk Together the Pumpkin Custard

In a separate, shallow dish (like a pie plate), whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk or cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Make sure it’s well combined. This ensures every slice is coated evenly in pumpkin-y goodness.

3. Dip the Bread

Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin custard mixture, soaking for about 15-20 seconds per side. Let the excess drip off before placing it on the hot griddle. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches.

4. Cook the French Toast

Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning. The goal is perfectly browned outside and soft, custardy inside.

5. Add the Crumble and Finish Cooking

Now, here’s where the fun really begins. After flipping the French toast for the second side, sprinkle a generous amount of the spiced pecan crumble over the top while it’s still cooking on the griddle. Gently press the crumble into the French toast so it adheres slightly.

Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, or until the crumble is lightly toasted and fragrant and the French toast is cooked through. Watch it closely so the crumble doesn’t burn.

6. Serve Immediately

Remove the pumpkin French toast from the griddle and serve immediately. A dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream are all wonderful additions. Enjoy the warmth and comforting flavors of fall in every bite!

Once your Pumpkin French Toast is golden brown and cooked through, it’s time for the best part: serving it up. I always feel a little thrill when I get to this point, it means folks are about to enjoy something special.

Of course, a generous pat of butter is always welcome. Let it melt into those nooks and crannies.

Next, drizzle with your favorite maple syrup. Grade A, Grade B, whatever you like best is perfect here.

Now, for the star of the show: that Spiced Pecan Crumble Topping. Sprinkle it generously over each slice.

The warm, spiced pecans add such a delightful crunch and flavor. They really take this Pumpkin French Toast to a whole new level.

If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar would be lovely. I sometimes add a few fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness, too.

And that’s it! Serve immediately and watch everyone’s faces light up. This Pumpkin French Toast, especially with that Spiced Pecan Crumble Topping, is sure to be a breakfast or brunch favorite.

Enjoy, y’all!

Leftover pumpkin French toast, especially when it’s got that wonderful spiced pecan crumble topping, is a true treat even the next day.

Storing: The best way to keep it is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I find that layering the slices with parchment paper prevents them from sticking together.

It’ll stay good for about 2-3 days this way.

Reheating: Now, you have a few options here. My preferred method is a quick toast in a skillet with a little butter. It crisps up the edges and warms it through perfectly.

You can also use a toaster oven or even a microwave, though the microwave can sometimes make it a bit soft.

Reusing: Don’t limit yourself to just breakfast, y’all.

That spiced pecan crumble topping makes this French toast almost like a dessert. Try cutting it into strips and serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of maple syrup for an easy but elegant treat.

Another idea is to crumble it up and use it as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. The pumpkin spice and pecans add a lovely warmth and texture.

You can even get creative and use the leftover French toast as a base for a bread pudding. Just cut it into cubes, soak it in a custard mixture, and bake until golden brown. That spiced pecan crumble will melt into the pudding and create the most heavenly flavor.

Enjoy every last bit!

Now, I know sometimes we don’t have all the ingredients on hand, or maybe we just want to switch things up a bit. That’s perfectly alright! Cooking should be fun and adaptable. So, let’s talk about some easy swaps and creative twists you can make to this Spiced Pecan Crumble Pumpkin French Toast.

• Bread: Brioche is my absolute favorite for French toast, it’s so rich and custardy. However, challah, Texas toast, or even sourdough (for a tangier flavor) will work beautifully. A gluten-free bread can be substituted for those with dietary restrictions.
• Milk: I typically use whole milk for richness, but feel free to use 2% milk, almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative you prefer. The taste and texture will vary slightly, but the results will still be delicious.
• Pumpkin Puree: If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you could try using butternut squash puree as a substitute. It will offer a similar sweetness and creamy texture.
• Spices: The spice blend is pretty flexible. If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can make your own using cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Adjust the amounts to your liking. A little cardamom can also add a nice warmth.
• Pecans: Don’t have pecans? Walnuts, almonds, or even a sprinkle of granola would be a lovely alternative in the Spiced Crumble topping. For a nut-free version, try using toasted oats.
• Sweetener: Maple syrup is wonderful for serving, but you can also use honey, agave nectar, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. For the crumble, brown sugar can be swapped for coconut sugar.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken). Use your favorite non-dairy milk and vegan butter for the crumble.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you. After all, cooking is about making a dish your own! I hope y’all enjoy this Spiced Pecan Crumble Pumpkin French Toast, no matter how you decide to make it.

Let’s address some common questions I get about making pumpkin french toast, especially with the spiced pecan crumble we’re adding.

Can I make pumpkin french toast ahead of time?

Yes, you can certainly prepare elements of this dish in advance.

I often mix the pumpkin custard batter the night before. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, especially the pumpkin spice.

The spiced pecan crumble topping can also be made a day or two in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its wonderful crunch. That way, you can just sprinkle it on when it is time to bake.

What kind of bread is best for pumpkin french toast?

A sturdy bread works best for soaking up the pumpkin custard without becoming soggy.

I recommend using brioche, challah, or even a good-quality Texas toast. These breads have a rich, slightly sweet flavor that complements the pumpkin spice. They also stand up well to the wet batter, holding their shape during cooking. The contrast of a softer bread and the crunch of the spiced pecan crumble is pure heaven.

How do I keep pumpkin french toast from being soggy?

The key to avoiding soggy french toast is not oversaturating the bread.

Dip each slice briefly in the pumpkin custard, ensuring it’s coated but not dripping. Using the right kind of bread, as mentioned above, also helps. Be sure your griddle or pan is hot before adding the soaked bread. This will help to create a crisp exterior and prevent the inside from becoming mushy. Don’t overcrowd the pan either.

Baking the pumpkin french toast casserole style is another excellent way to ensure even cooking. The spiced pecan crumble topping prevents it from becoming soggy in the oven too.

Can I customize the pumpkin spice in pumpkin french toast?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking.

If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a bit more. You could also include a pinch of cardamom or allspice for a warmer, more complex flavor profile. I sometimes add a dash of nutmeg as well. For the spiced pecan crumble, you can add cinnamon or ginger to the pecans for an extra kick. Use your favorite spices for the perfect warmth and balance for your tastes.

What can I serve with pumpkin french toast?

Pumpkin french toast is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with the right accompaniments.

A drizzle of pure maple syrup is always a classic choice, of course. Fresh berries add a burst of brightness and color, and a dollop of whipped cream takes it over the top. Candied pecans can enhance the spiced pecan crumble if you really want that to shine.

If you are looking for a bit of savory with the sweet, a side of crispy bacon or sausage is lovely. Y’all enjoy!

Pumpkin French Toast with Spiced Pecan Crumble

Yield: 3 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

This pumpkin French toast recipe is the perfect cozy breakfast for fall. It's topped with a buttery, spiced pecan crumble that adds the perfect crunch and warmth.

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Ingredients

• For the French Toast:
• 6 slices of bread (challah, brioche, or Texas toast work well)
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, for greasing the pan
• For the Spiced Pecan Crumble:
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. First, prepare the spiced pecan crumble. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, chopped pecans, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the French toast.
3. In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Heat a lightly buttered griddle or skillet over medium heat.
5. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
6. Place the soaked bread onto the hot griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the French toast from the griddle and place it on a serving plate.
8. Sprinkle the spiced pecan crumble generously over the cooked French toast.
9. Serve immediately. You can top it with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. Enjoy, y'all!