If you are searching for a cozy, scrumptious breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe. This dish perfectly blends the rich creaminess of full-fat cream cheese with the subtle, comforting flavors of pumpkin and fall spices. Every bite feels indulgent yet homey, combining the fluffy texture of French toast with a luscious pumpkin twist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple for holiday mornings or weekend brunches filled with smiles and satisfied sighs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients are the backbone of a fantastic Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe. Each component plays a special role, whether it’s the creamy tang of cream cheese, the earthy sweetness of pumpkin puree, or the warm spice blend that gives this dish its signature autumn vibe.
- French bread: Use a sturdy loaf sliced about an inch thick to soak the custard without falling apart.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden, slightly crispy top as it bakes.
- Cream cheese: Full-fat and softened for smooth, creamy filling that balances the pumpkin’s sweetness.
- Pumpkin puree: Make sure you use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling, to control the spices and sweetness.
- Eggs: Provide the custardy base that binds everything together with the half and half.
- Half and half: Adds creaminess and moisture to the custard mixture, making the bread rich and tender.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture with a delicate texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the egg custard and ensures a balanced flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its sweet, floral notes.
- Spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves): Bring an irresistible, warm aroma and depth for that perfect seasonal kick.
- Salt: Just a pinch to bring out all the flavors and keep the sweetness in check.
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Soften and Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
To get a smooth and creamy filling, start by taking the cream cheese out of the fridge and letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This softening step is crucial because it makes beating the cream cheese easier so it blends seamlessly with powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. The result is a luscious, rich layer that will complement the pumpkin custard beautifully.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg and Pumpkin Custard
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re slightly frothy. This little aeration helps create a light, fluffy texture when baked. Add the half and half, granulated sugar, salt, pumpkin puree, vanilla, and all the warming spices. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every slice of bread will be evenly infused with that cozy autumn goodness we’re after.
Step 3: Slice Your French Bread
Slice the French bread into about 16 pieces, each around an inch thick. This thickness is perfect for soaking up the custard without turning to mush. Consistent slices mean even baking and a beautifully tender inside with just the right amount of crust.
Step 4: Assemble the French Toast Sandwiches
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over 8 of the bread slices—you’re basically making little sandwiches here. Place another slice on top of each to create 8 sandwich-style pieces. Don’t worry if you need to gently press them to fit into your baking dish; the custard soaking will keep them intact and full of flavor.
Step 5: Pour the Pumpkin Egg Mixture
Slowly and carefully pour the pumpkin and egg custard over the assembled French toast sandwiches. Pouring gradually helps prevent the bread from getting soggy too fast while allowing the custard to soak in evenly.
Step 6: Dot with Butter
Slice your butter and place a small piece on top of each sandwich. The butter melts into the French toast as it bakes, creating golden pockets of deliciousness across the surface.
Step 7: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, ideally overnight. This resting time gives the custard a chance to fully penetrate the bread and allows all those amazing flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 8: Bake to Warm, Golden Perfection
Remove the cover and bake in a preheated 400°F (204°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the top and tent with foil if it browns too quickly. When done, it should have a set center and a gorgeous golden-brown crust that’s slightly crisp but tender inside.
How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of love, sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle with warm maple syrup. Toasted pecans or a handful of fresh berries add a lovely crunch and burst of freshness that contrast perfectly with the creamy pumpkin flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory balance. Fresh fruit salad or a glass of cinnamon-spiced apple cider can help round out a fully satisfying morning feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the assembled French toast sandwiches in individual ramekins for charming single servings. Or slice each sandwich into smaller bite-sized pieces to create a decadent brunch platter that everyone can nibble on casually.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the leftovers covered well to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep this pumpkin delight longer, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Frozen French toast stays good for up to 2 months and makes for a quick breakfast anytime.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, around 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible for the best texture; the oven helps keep the edges crisp while warming the inside evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different bread instead of French bread?
Absolutely! While French bread is ideal for its sturdy texture and crust, you can experiment with brioche or challah if you want a slightly sweeter or richer base. Just ensure your slices are thick enough to absorb the custard without falling apart.
Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
Overnight refrigeration isn’t mandatory but highly recommended for this Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe. It allows the custard to soak deeply, resulting in more tender, flavorful French toast with a well-set texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the cream cheese and half and half with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cream cheese and coconut or almond milk, but it may slightly change the flavor and texture. Use full-fat dairy-free options for the best creamy results.
How do I prevent the French toast from getting soggy?
Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the assembled sandwiches to prevent oversaturation. Also, using thick slices of bread and allowing the dish to rest overnight helps the custard set perfectly without becoming mushy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in the oven at 350°F is best to restore crispness on the outside while warming the center evenly. Microwaving can make it too soft or rubbery, so save that as a last resort.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe is truly a showstopper that brings warmth and joy to any breakfast table. Its combination of creamy, pumpkin-spiced custard and tangy cream cheese filling transforms simple French toast into something special. I encourage you to give it a try on your next cozy morning — you might find that it becomes your go-to comfort dish every fall and well beyond.
Print
Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 9 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast is a decadent and festive breakfast dish that combines creamy pumpkin-spiced filling sandwiched between slices of French bread, soaked in a rich egg mixture, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a cozy fall morning or holiday brunch, this recipe yields a sweet and warmly spiced dish with a luscious cream cheese layer that balances the pumpkin and spices beautifully.
Ingredients
Bread and Butter
- 1 loaf (French bread), sliced
- 2 Tbsp. (28 g) butter, sliced
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8 oz. / 226 g) package cream cheese, full-fat, softened
- 1/3 cup (43 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp. (5 ml) vanilla extract (pure)
- Dash of salt
Egg and Pumpkin Mixture
- 4 large eggs, preferably at room temperature
- 1 cup (240 ml) half and half (can substitute evaporated milk)
- 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp. (1.25 ml) salt
- 1 tsp. (2.6 g) ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. (1 g) ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp. (0.5 g) ground nutmeg (freshly grated recommended)
- 1/4 tsp. (0.5 g) ground cloves
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) pumpkin puree (use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling)
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Remove the cream cheese from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until very soft. Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add 1/3 cup powdered sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla extract, and a dash of salt. Mix until fully combined and set aside.
- Whisk Eggs Thoroughly: In a large bowl, beat 4 large eggs with a whisk until slightly frothy. Add 1 cup half and half, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp. ground ginger, 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg, 1/4 tsp. ground cloves, and 1/2 cup pumpkin puree. Mix all ingredients until evenly combined.
- Cut Bread Evenly: Slice the French bread into about 16 slices, each approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick to ensure even cooking.
- Assemble Carefully: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over 8 bread slices. Top each with another slice to create 8 sandwich-style pieces. Place the assembled French toast into a prepared baking dish, pressing gently if needed to fit all pieces.
- Pour Mixture Slowly: Pour the pumpkin and egg mixture evenly over the assembled French toast, doing so gradually to prevent oversaturating the bread and maintain structure.
- Add Butter: Slice the butter into small pieces and distribute evenly on top of each French toast sandwich.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to soak into the bread properly.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Remove the cover and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Notes
- Using pure pumpkin puree is important; do not substitute pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
- Allowing the cream cheese to soften before mixing ensures a smooth and lump-free filling.
- Refrigeration overnight enhances flavor and helps the custard soak thoroughly into the bread for a moist texture.
- If your bread slices are thinner or thicker than recommended, adjust baking time accordingly.
- A toothpick inserted into the center can be used to test doneness; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- You can substitute evaporated milk for half and half if desired, but the texture will be slightly less rich.
