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
Scale
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.
