Picture this: a quiet weekend morning, the scent of warm spices filling your kitchen, and the first bite of a perfectly caramelized, custardy slice of Pumpkin Pecan Brioche French Toast. That moment when the maple syrup pools around the edges, mingling with the buttery pecans and pumpkin-infused custard? Pure breakfast bliss.
This isn’t just another French toast recipe—it’s a celebration of fall flavors transformed into the most luxurious breakfast you’ll make all season. Ready to elevate your breakfast game? Let’s dive in.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
This Pumpkin Pecan Brioche French Toast stands head and shoulders above ordinary breakfast fare for so many reasons.
The marriage of buttery brioche with pumpkin custard creates a texture that’s simultaneously light and decadent—crisp at the edges yet tender in the center. Unlike standard French toast recipes, the pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle earthy sweetness that pairs perfectly with warming spices. What really sets this recipe apart is its versatility.
It’s impressive enough for holiday brunches yet simple enough for a special weekend treat. The make-ahead option (soak overnight!) makes it perfect for busy hosts or anyone who values a leisurely morning. Plus, it transforms simple ingredients into something that tastes genuinely gourmet without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Equipment Needed: Mixing bowl, whisk, shallow dish, non-stick skillet or griddle, spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Pumpkin Pecan Brioche French Toast
Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche bread about 8-10 thick slices, preferably day-old
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
- ¼ cup brown sugar packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons butter divided (plus more for serving)
- 1 cup pecans roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup plus more for serving
- Optional toppings: whipped cream cinnamon, powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare your custard mixture by whisking together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a large bowl until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be a consistent orange color with no streaks.
- Set up your dipping station by transferring the custard mixture to a shallow dish that’s large enough to fit a slice of brioche. Having the right container makes the soaking process much neater.
- Toast the pecans by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat, then adding the chopped pecans. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and golden. Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, stir quickly to coat, then transfer to a plate to cool.
- Heat your cooking surface by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. The pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles on the surface.
- Dip each slice of brioche into the pumpkin custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20-30 seconds per side. The bread should absorb the mixture but still maintain its structure—don’t let it get soggy!
- Cook the soaked bread for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp at the edges. Work in batches, adding the remaining butter as needed, and adjust heat if browning too quickly.
- Keep cooked slices warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while you finish cooking the remaining slices. This ensures everyone gets to enjoy hot French toast at the same time.
- Serve immediately topped with the candied pecans, a pat of butter, additional warm maple syrup, and any optional toppings you desire. The contrast between the warm toast and cool toppings makes each bite perfect.
Notes
- For the best texture, use brioche that’s 1-2 days old. Fresh bread tends to get too soggy when soaked.
- You can prepare the pumpkin custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
- For a make-ahead option, assemble everything the night before: soak the bread in the custard mixture, layer in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
- To keep this dish warm for a crowd, place finished French toast on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes.
- Leftover French toast can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in a toaster oven for the best texture.
Calories & Nutritional Info
- Calories: Approximately 520 calories per serving (2 slices)
- Protein: 12g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 45g per serving
- Fat: 32g per serving
- Allergens: Contains wheat, dairy, eggs, and tree nuts (pecans)
- Dietary Notes: Can be made gluten-free by substituting gluten-free brioche; dairy-free adaptations possible with plant-based milk and butter
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fresh, soft bread – This will absorb too much custard and fall apart. Slightly stale or day-old bread has the perfect structure to hold up.
- Soaking the bread too long – Brief soaking (20-30 seconds per side) is sufficient; longer soaking leads to soggy centers that won’t cook through properly.
- Cooking at too high heat – This causes the outside to burn before the inside cooks. Medium heat allows for even cooking throughout.
- Not whisking the custard thoroughly – Eggs should be fully incorporated to avoid “eggy” spots on your French toast.
- Skimping on the spices – The warming spices are what make this recipe special; measure them carefully for the best flavor profile.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- Bread options: Challah, Texas toast, or even a high-quality sandwich bread can work if brioche isn’t available. The texture will change slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
- Dairy alternatives: Substitute coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version. For richness, use full-fat versions.
- Nut variations: Walnuts, hazelnuts, or a mix of your favorite nuts can replace pecans. For nut allergies, try toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) instead.
- Sweetener options: Coconut sugar or maple sugar can replace brown sugar for a different flavor profile. For a less sweet version, reduce sugar by half.
- Baked version: Arrange soaked bread slices in a buttered baking dish, pour over any remaining custard, top with pecans, and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes for an easy hands-off approach.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. For a complete make-ahead option, soak the bread, arrange in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking the next morning.
How do I know when my French toast is fully cooked?
Properly cooked French toast should be golden brown on both sides with no visible raw custard. The center should be moist but not soggy. If you’re unsure, you can check with a knife—it should come out clean without any wet custard mixture.
Can I freeze leftovers of this Pumpkin Pecan Brioche French Toast?
Yes! Cool completely, then place slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster or 350°F oven until warmed through.
What can I do if my French toast is browning too quickly?
If your French toast is getting too dark before the center cooks, your heat is too high. Lower the temperature and continue cooking. You can also transfer partially cooked slices to a 350°F oven to finish cooking through without burning the exterior.
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
I don’t recommend it. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sweeteners and spices in unknown quantities, which will throw off the flavor balance of the recipe. Stick with pure pumpkin puree for consistent results you can control.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pecan Brioche French Toast isn’t just a recipe—it’s a little slice of seasonal joy on a plate.
Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast, weekend brunch, or “breakfast for dinner” night, it delivers that perfect balance of comfort and elegance. The beauty of cooking is making something truly special from simple ingredients, and this recipe does exactly that. Go ahead and give yourself permission to slow down, savor each bite, and enjoy the moment. You deserve it!
