Pumpkin French Toast Recipe | Cozy Fall Breakfast with Sourdough Bread

Sharing is caring!

Pumpkin French Toast with sourdough bread is the perfect cozy fall breakfast. Made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and real ingredients.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

When the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin. This Pumpkin French Toast recipe is the perfect way to bring fall into your kitchen. Made with real pumpkin puree, creamy custard, and cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, every bite tastes like autumn on a plate.

I like to use my homemade sourdough bread for this recipe because it’s hearty, slightly tangy, and holds up beautifully when soaked in custard. The result is a french toast that’s golden on the outside, custardy on the inside, and packed with pumpkin flavor.

This is the kind of breakfast that feels special enough for a holiday morning yet simple enough to whip up on a weekend. As always, it’s made with whole, real ingredients—where real ingredients meet everyday cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin French Toast

• Cozy fall flavors in every slice—pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Made with sourdough bread, which adds flavor and texture.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• Perfect for brunch, holidays, or cozy weekends at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6–8 slices sourdough bread (or another thick, crusty loaf)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling – that is full of ingredients you don’t want)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the custard: In a 9×13 baking dish, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
2. Soak the bread: Place slices of sourdough into the pan, making sure they’re well-coated. Let them soak for about 5 minutes on each side so the bread absorbs all that pumpkin goodness.
3. Cook the French toast: Heat a cast iron griddle (or a large cast iron skillet) over medium heat. Melt a little butter in the pan, then cook the soaked bread slices for 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp on the edges.
4. Serve: Transfer to plates and serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin French Toast

• Use day-old bread: Slightly stale sourdough soaks up the custard better without falling apart.
• Don’t rush the soak: Giving each slice a full 5 minutes per side ensures a rich, custardy texture inside.
• Cook on medium heat: Too high and it will burn before the inside cooks; too low and it won’t get crisp edges.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the custard mixture the night before to save time in the morning.

Topping Ideas

• A drizzle of pure maple syrup
• A dollop of homemade whipped cream
• Toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch
• A light dusting of powdered sugar
• Fresh berries for a bright, tart contrast
• A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence

Storing & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
• To freeze, place slices between layers of parchment paper and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Toast or bake to reheat.

Pairing Suggestions

This Pumpkin French Toast makes a delicious centerpiece for a cozy fall breakfast or brunch. Pair it with:

• A hot mug of coffee or chai latte
• A glass of spiced apple cider
• High protein sides for a hearty spread

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin French Toast recipe is everything you want in a fall breakfast—warm, spiced, cozy, and made with real ingredients. The sourdough bread gives it a rustic texture that makes every bite feel hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a special holiday breakfast, a weekend brunch, or simply to bring a little fall flavor into your morning, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

If you make this recipe, don’t forget to snap a photo and Tag me on instagram @my.colorado.kitchen or Pinterest—I’d love to see your cozy fall creations!