As the cool autumn breeze rustles the leaves outside, I find myself craving something that embodies the essence of this cozy season. This vegan Pumpkin French Toast is just that—crispy on the outside and luxuriously soft within, it’s infused with the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin and spices. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily elevate your weekday breakfast or become a star at your next brunch gathering. Not only is it plant-based and gluten-free (if you choose the right bread), but it also comes together in a snap. Imagine savoring a comforting slice topped with maple syrup and your favorite nuts, reminding you of pumpkin pie but in a breakfast form. Ready to fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of fall? Let’s dive into creating this heartwarming dish together!

Why Choose Pumpkin French Toast?

Irresistible Flavor: This Pumpkin French Toast offers a heavenly blend of warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor, making it an instant favorite for fall enthusiasts.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful breakfast in no time.

Versatile Delight: Enjoy it topped with various options like toasted almonds, pecans, or even a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a personalized treat.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weekday breakfast or a festive weekend brunch, this dish caters to all, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Gluten-Free Option: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free bread.

Take a look at our Lentil Ragout French for delicious side dishes that pair seamlessly with this scrumptious breakfast!

Pumpkin French Toast Ingredients

• Experience the flavors of fall with these delightful ingredients!

For the Bread
• 8 slices day-old ciabatta or sourdough bread – Provides structure; swap with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option.

For the Batter
• ¾ cup almond milk – Adds moisture; feel free to substitute with soy or oat milk.
• ½ cup pumpkin puree – Serves as an egg replacer and gives that rich pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup – Sweetens the mix; honey or agave syrup work as alternatives.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; add nutmeg too for extra depth.
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – Complements the fall flavor; optional if you’re short on spices.
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt – Balances the sweetness; regular salt also works fine.

For Cooking
• Coconut oil (for brushing) – Prevents sticking and aids in browning; substitute with any cooking oil if needed.

For Toppings
• Optional toppings – Toasted almonds, pecans, diced apples, and powdered sugar make delightful garnishes to enhance your Pumpkin French Toast experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of almond milk, ½ cup of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon of sea salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This fragrant blend will infuse your Pumpkin French Toast with rich flavor, so be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl as you whisk.

Step 2: Coat the Bread
Arrange 8 slices of day-old ciabatta or sourdough bread on a large platter or in a baking dish. Drizzle the pumpkin mixture generously over the bread slices, ensuring that each piece is well-coated on all sides. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors; you want the bread to soak up the mixture beautifully for that custardy texture.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet
While the bread soaks, place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a light brush of coconut oil. Allow it to heat for about 2 minutes until the oil is shimmering but not smoking. This ensures a perfect golden-brown crust on your Pumpkin French Toast and prevents it from sticking to the skillet.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Carefully add the coated bread slices to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each slice for approximately 2 minutes on one side, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Flip the slices gently and cook for another 2 minutes, adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent burning while ensuring doneness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Pumpkin French Toast is cooked to a perfect golden hue on both sides, transfer it to a serving plate. Serve immediately with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of your favorite toppings, like toasted almonds, pecans, or diced apples. This dish is best enjoyed hot, reflecting the comforting essence of fall in every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover Pumpkin French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to regain its crispy texture.

Freezer: If you have extra slices, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight freezer bag. They will keep for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen Pumpkin French Toast in a toaster or skillet for the best results, ensuring it is heated through without becoming soggy.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving out cooked Pumpkin French Toast at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety issues.

What to Serve with Vegan Pumpkin French Toast

As the cozy aromas of autumn fill your kitchen, consider these delightful accompaniments to elevate your breakfast or brunch experience.

Sunny-Side-Up Eggs: The bright, creamy yolks provide a delicious contrast, adding richness that complements the spiced pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Savory Vegetable Frittata: Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this dish adds a savory balance to the sweet French toast, making each bite a harmonious blend.
Crispy Bacon or Sausages: For those who crave a little crunch and saltiness, crispy plant-based bacon or breakfast sausage pairs perfectly with the soft sweetness of the toast.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of vibrant, seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that cuts through the richness of the toast, enhancing the entire meal.
Maple-Glazed Pecans: Drizzled with maple syrup, these nuts give a lovely crunch and a sweet, nutty flavor that complements the main dish wonderfully.
Chai Tea Latte: The spiced warmth of chai perfectly matches the flavors in your French toast, creating a cozy beverage to sip alongside your meal.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Embrace the fall vibes by pairing your French toast with these treats. Their additional pumpkin flavor will leave you feeling festive and satisfied.
Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of this light and airy topping adds a decadent feel, resembling dessert and perfectly balancing the spices in your dish.

Each of these pairings enhances the experience of your Vegan Pumpkin French Toast, ensuring a delightful and memorable meal for you and your loved ones.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Pumpkin French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily prepare the pumpkin mixture (¾ cup almond milk, ½ cup pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon sea salt) up to 24 hours in advance to save precious time in the morning. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can coat the bread slices ahead of time; just make sure to refrigerate them as well, allowing you to simply cook them when you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to enjoy your breakfast, heat a skillet, brush it with coconut oil, and cook the bread slices for about 2 minutes on each side. You’ll have a cozy, comforting breakfast that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin French Toast

Heat Matters: Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the bread slices; this prevents sogginess and promotes a perfect crispy edge.

Watch the Thickness: Adjust cooking time if you’re using thicker slices of bread. Thicker bread may need a bit more time to properly cook without burning.

Dip or Drizzle: Feel free to dip the bread in the pumpkin mixture instead of drizzling it. Just ensure each slice is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor in your Pumpkin French Toast.

Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh cinnamon and nutmeg. They add depth and warmth that enhance your fall experience.

Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Experiment with various options to make the dish truly yours and cater to your taste preferences.

Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin French Toast

Feel free to get creative and customize your Pumpkin French Toast with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Use any non-dairy milk, like soy or oat milk, to complement the pumpkin flavor while keeping it vegan.
Gluten-Free: Swap standard bread with gluten-free varieties for a deliciously inclusive breakfast everyone can enjoy. Don’t let dietary restrictions get in the way of a cozy fall breakfast!
Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the batter for a surprising kick that plays beautifully against the sweet pumpkin. It’s a warm hug in a bite!
Fruity Delight: Toss in a handful of fresh blueberries or sliced bananas to the batter for a fruity twist that brightens each forkful.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in chopped toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter or sprinkle on top for added texture and flavor. Imagine that delightful crunch with each bite!
Seasonal Add-Ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the pumpkin mixture for the perfect marriage of sweetness and nostalgia.
Creative Toppings: Top with a drizzle of peanut butter or sunflower seed butter instead of syrup for a creamy, protein-packed alternative. You won’t believe how good this feels!
Cinnamon Raisin: Use cinnamon raisin bread instead of ciabatta or sourdough for an added layer of sweetness and flavor. It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly morning!

Looking for something to pair with this beautiful breakfast? Check out our French Chicken Casserole for a delightful dinner option after enjoying this scrumptious treat. Or explore the comforting flavors in our Lentil Ragout French for a hearty side dish. Enjoy experimenting!

Pumpkin French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Pumpkin French Toast?
Absolutely! I recommend using day-old ciabatta or sourdough bread for the best texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free bread, and you’ll still enjoy that lovely crispy crust and soft center!

How can I store leftover Pumpkin French Toast?
Leftover Pumpkin French Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving the next day, reheat slices in a skillet over low heat for best results, ensuring you achieve that delightful crispy texture.

Can I freeze Pumpkin French Toast?
Yes, you can! To freeze Pumpkin French Toast, place the cooked slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They should stay fresh for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply pop them in a toaster or skillet until heated through.

What can I serve with Pumpkin French Toast?
Serve it with a side of sunny-side-up eggs or a colorful vegetable frittata for a hearty brunch spread. It pairs beautifully with whipped coconut cream for additional richness and flavor. The more, the merrier!

Are there any dietary considerations for Pumpkin French Toast?
Very! This recipe is not only vegan but can also be adapted to suit gluten-free needs by using the right bread. Always check ingredient labels to avoid any allergens, especially if you’re serving this dish to guests with dietary restrictions.

How do I achieve the perfect texture?
To achieve that delightful custardy interior, make sure to let the bread soak in the pumpkin mixture for a few minutes. Be mindful of your skillet temperature; it should be heated before adding the bread to avoid sogginess. If using thicker slices, adjust the cooking time accordingly for even cooking.