why make this recipe
Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the warmth and comfort of French toast with the rich flavors of pumpkin. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch, especially during the fall season. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also serves a crowd, making it great for family gatherings or holiday celebrations. With its creamy custard base and crunchy topping, this casserole will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
how to make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 (12–14-ounce) loaf French bread, brioche, sourdough bread, or challah
- 1 cup (227g) pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 and 1/2 teaspoons store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
- 6 large eggs
- 2 and 1/3 cups (560ml) whole milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (69g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 3/4 cup (100g) roughly chopped pecans
- For serving: pure maple syrup
Directions:
- Slice and cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Let the cubed bread sit out uncovered for a few hours or up to 1 day. If you’re short on time, there are tips for quick bread preparation.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick spray. Spread cubes of bread evenly in the dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
- Cover the pan tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or up to 1 day. This soaking time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
- In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon together. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until you have pea-size crumbles. Stir in the pecans and cover. Refrigerate until ready to use; this can be done 15 minutes before baking or up to 1 day in advance.
- When ready, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, then cover with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes, or until the center appears set and is no longer runny. The entire baking time is around 45-55 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. The casserole may slightly deflate as it cools. Drizzle maple syrup on top before serving or offer it on the side.
how to serve Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
Serve this delicious casserole warm, either straight from the oven or after a few minutes of cooling. Drizzling pure maple syrup over the top enhances the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness that everyone will enjoy. You can also serve it with whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if you like.
how to store Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
For any leftovers, cover the casserole tightly and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. This dish can be reheated in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the oven, warming it at a lower temperature helps retain its texture.
tips to make Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
- Bread Selection: Choose a bread that has a good texture, like brioche or challah, for the best results.
- Soaking Time: Allow plenty of time for the bread to soak up the custard mixture. This step is vital for a creamy casserole.
- Topping Texture: Keep the crumb topping cold until you’re ready to bake; this helps it stay crunchy and not sink into the casserole.
variation (if any)
Feel free to customize this casserole! You can add mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or other nuts for extra flavor and texture. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the pumpkin custard.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover the assembled casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree because pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices that may alter the flavor of your casserole.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.