Enjoy a comforting and flavorful Pumpkin French Toast Casserole, perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch that serves a crowd. This easy casserole bakes up beautifully with a warm pumpkin spice flavor.
Author:Marco Fontaine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:4 hours 10 minutes
Yield:8-10 servings
Category:Breakfast/Brunch
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 loaf (1 pound) challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 cups milk
4 large eggs
1 cup pumpkin puree
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
Arrange bread cubes in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are moistened. Press down gently.
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
If using, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the casserole.
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup.
Notes
Using day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.
For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half instead of milk.
Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to your preference.