If you’re on the hunt for a bite-sized breakfast treat that captures all the cozy fall vibes, this Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender cubes of brioche soaked in a luscious pumpkin-spiced custard, lightly crisped to golden perfection, and then drizzled with rich maple syrup—each bite bursting with warm spices and that perfect little sweetness. It’s a fun twist on classic French toast that’s perfect for sharing, dipping, or just happily munching away on a lazy morning. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to comfort breakfast or brunch star!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple yet so essential to crafting the perfect Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe. Each one works together to create that dreamy texture, rich flavor, and inviting color that makes this dish stand out.
- Brioche or challah bread: These soft, slightly sweet breads soak up the custard wonderfully without falling apart.
- Eggs: The eggs bind everything together and provide that classic French toast richness.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and helps thin the custard for a perfect soak.
- Canned pumpkin puree: Brings that unmistakable fall warmth and moisture to every bite.
- Granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness without overpowering the spices.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a lovely fragrant note.
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: These spices work as a trio to build the signature pumpkin spice flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
- Butter: For cooking, it adds that irresistible crispy golden crust and richness.
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar: Classic toppings that finish the dish with sweetness and a pretty touch.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Pumpkin Custard
Begin by mixing eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. This flavorful custard is where all the magic starts, infusing every bread cube with cozy fall spices and creamy pumpkin richness.
Step 2: Soak the Bread Cubes
Next, toss your cubed brioche or challah into the pumpkin mixture. Make sure every piece is thoroughly coated, then let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes so they absorb that delicious custard without falling apart.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet and Melt Butter
While the bread soaks, place a large skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. The butter will help give the French toast bites their irresistible golden crust and flavor.
Step 4: Cook the First Half of the French Toast Bites
Add half of the soaked bread cubes to the skillet, spreading them out so they’re in a single layer. Cooking in batches ensures each bite crisps up evenly and beautifully.
Step 5: Brown the French Toast Bites
Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, allowing that gorgeous golden-brown crust to form while keeping the inside tender and soft—this contrast is what makes these bites so addictive.
Step 6: Repeat with Remaining Bread Cubes
Transfer the cooked bites to a plate to keep warm. Add the remaining butter to the skillet, then cook the second batch the same way until perfectly golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve Warm with Toppings
Finally, pile your pumpkin French toast bites on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar for that irresistible finishing touch that makes every bite heavenly.
How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm maple syrup, or even a handful of chopped toasted pecans elevate these bites to next-level deliciousness. The contrast of textures and flavors adds a delightful pop to each mouthful.
Side Dishes
This Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even creamy yogurt to balance the sweet spices with a bit of tang. It’s also fantastic alongside crispy bacon or sausage to satisfy those savory cravings.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the bites on a wooden board or colorful plate, scattered with autumn leaves for a festive touch. Serve them on skewers for easy dipping and sharing at a brunch party. You could even turn them into a parfait by layering bites with yogurt and granola for a beautiful and tasty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy breakfast or snack that you can enjoy without starting from scratch.
Freezing
These bites freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together. Frozen bites can last up to 2 months and are perfect for quick reheating whenever you want a comforting treat.
Reheating
To reheat, pop frozen or refrigerated bites into a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as you want to maintain that lovely crunchy exterior.
FAQs
Can I use any type of bread for Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe?
Yes, but brioche or challah is preferred because their slightly sweet, soft texture soaks up the custard well without becoming mushy. Sourdough or whole wheat can work but may give a denser bite.
Is canned pumpkin puree necessary or can I use fresh pumpkin?
Canned pumpkin puree is ideal for consistency and ease, but if you have fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it thoroughly first. Just make sure it’s thick and smooth for the best custard texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or any plant-based milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for cooking. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.
How long do I need to soak the bread cubes?
About 10 to 15 minutes is perfect to allow the bread to absorb the pumpkin custard without becoming too soggy, ensuring each bite is flavorful yet maintains structure.
Can I bake the Pumpkin French Toast Bites instead of cooking on a skillet?
Yes! Spread the soaked bread cubes on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for around 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe that warms heart and soul in every bite. It’s such a fun and delicious way to celebrate all those cozy fall flavors we adore, plus it’s simple enough for any weekend morning or holiday brunch. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones—these bites have a way of bringing smiles and happy tummies all around!
Print
Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin French Toast Bites are a delightful fall-inspired breakfast treat made with bite-sized brioche or challah bread cubes soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard and cooked to golden perfection in a skillet. Served warm with maple syrup and powdered sugar, they offer a cozy, sweet start to your day.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Custard
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
For the French Toast Bites
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably brioche or challah), cut into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Serving
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the Bread Cubes: Add the bread cubes into the pumpkin custard mixture, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow them to soak for 10 to 15 minutes so the bread absorbs the flavorful custard.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet on the stovetop over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter to prepare for cooking.
- Cook the First Batch: Arrange half of the soaked bread cubes in a single layer in the skillet. Cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until the bites turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Remove and Cook Remaining: Transfer the cooked French toast bites to a plate and repeat the frying process with the remaining bread cubes, adding the remaining butter as needed to prevent sticking and ensure crispiness.
- Serve Warm: Serve the pumpkin French toast bites immediately while warm, generously drizzled with maple syrup and lightly dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Notes
- Use brioche or challah bread for a rich and tender texture; sturdy bread cubes help absorb the custard well without becoming soggy.
- You can prepare the custard mixture the night before to save time in the morning.
- Adjust the spices according to your preference, adding more cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with almond milk and coconut oil respectively.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit or crispy bacon for a complete breakfast experience.
