Introduction

Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Whipped Cream is the ultimate autumn breakfast indulgence — golden, custardy slices of bread infused with pumpkin purée, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla. Each bite is soft inside, crisp outside, and bursting with cozy fall flavors. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup, this French toast feels like eating pumpkin pie for breakfast — warm, nostalgic, and utterly irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures everything wonderful about fall — the comforting scent of pumpkin spice, the golden crispness of the bread, and that creamy topping that melts perfectly with maple syrup. It’s simple to make yet feels decadent and special, perfect for cozy weekends, brunch with loved ones, or even festive mornings like Thanksgiving. Plus, the pumpkin purée adds moisture, richness, and a subtle sweetness that elevates classic French toast to a whole new level.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it combines classic breakfast comfort with the nostalgic warmth of pumpkin spice. The custard mixture coats each slice beautifully, giving the toast a soft, almost custard-like interior and a slightly crisp exterior. It’s a celebration of fall in every bite and perfect for anyone who loves pumpkin desserts but wants something easy and satisfying for breakfast.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 (8 slices)
Calories (per serving): ~340 kcal
Cuisine: American
Course: Breakfast / Brunch

Ingredients

For the French Toast:

8 slices thick-cut brioche, challah, or Texas toast
4 large eggs
¾ cup milk (whole or plant-based)
½ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)

For the Whipped Cream:

½ cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving:

Maple syrup
Ground cinnamon (for dusting, optional)

Simple Cooking Directions

Whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin purée, sugar, vanilla, and spices.
Dip each bread slice into the pumpkin custard, coating both sides.
Cook in a buttered skillet until golden on both sides.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form.
Serve French toast warm with whipped cream and maple syrup.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth.

Step 2: Dip the Bread
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a little butter.
Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 10–15 seconds on each side. Let any excess drip off.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Place soaked bread slices on the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crisp on the outside.
Add more butter as needed between batches.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream
In a chilled bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Beat with a whisk or electric mixer until soft peaks form. Do not overwhip.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Stack 2 slices of French toast per serving. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, drizzle with maple syrup, and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon.

How to Serve

Serve warm and freshly cooked, topped with whipped cream and maple syrup. For extra flair, add toasted pecans, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. A side of crispy bacon or spiced apples makes it even more indulgent. Perfect with hot coffee, chai latte, or a pumpkin spice latte.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah for the best texture.

Let the bread soak, but don’t oversaturate — it should be moist, not soggy.
To keep the French toast warm while cooking multiple batches, place finished slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven.
Whipped cream can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Add a pinch of clove or allspice for a deeper flavor.

Variations

Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast: Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese between two slices for a stuffed version.
Vegan Pumpkin French Toast: Use flax eggs, non-dairy milk, and coconut oil.
Nutty Pumpkin French Toast: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
Caramel Pumpkin Toast: Drizzle with caramel or butterscotch sauce instead of syrup.
Baked French Toast Casserole: Turn it into a baked dish — layer soaked bread in a dish, bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, and top with whipped cream.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster or oven until warm.
Freezer: Place cooked slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

Nonstick skillet or griddle
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Electric mixer or hand whisk (for whipped cream)
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

FAQ

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?
A: No, pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced — use pure pumpkin purée for the right balance.

Q: What’s the best bread for French toast?
A: Brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best due to their soft yet sturdy texture.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can make the custard mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Whip the cream fresh before serving.

Q: How can I make this lighter?
A: Use low-fat milk and skip the whipped cream, or replace it with Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Q: My French toast turned soggy — what happened?
A: The bread was likely too thin or soaked for too long. Use thick slices and a quick dip to avoid oversaturation.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Whipped Cream is pure fall comfort on a plate — golden, spiced, and sweetly indulgent. The creamy pumpkin custard transforms ordinary bread into something spectacular, while the whipped cream and maple syrup add the perfect finishing touch. Whether for a cozy weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or special treat, this French toast brings warmth, flavor, and joy to every bite. Simple to make yet beautifully decadent — it’s a recipe you’ll return to all season long.