Description
Fall mornings just got a whole lot cozier with this Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast! This comforting breakfast features thick slices of bread stuffed with a sweet pumpkin cream cheese filling, dipped in a warm spiced custard, and griddled to golden perfection. It’s creamy, crispy, spiced, and oh-so-satisfying—perfect for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or whenever you’re craving autumn flavors.
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Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup canned pumpkin puree
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2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp ground nutmeg
For the French Toast Batter:
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4 large eggs
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¾ cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
For the French Toast:
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8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread (day-old works best)
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Butter or oil for greasing the pan
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Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
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Maple syrup for serving
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Fresh berries or banana slices for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Filling
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In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
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Add pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Mix until well combined and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
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Lay out your bread slices and spread a generous layer of the pumpkin cream cheese filling on half of them.
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Top with another slice to make a “sandwich.” Press gently to seal.
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If the bread is thick and soft, you can slightly press the edges to help hold the filling.
Step 3: Make the French Toast Batter
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In a shallow baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
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Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Dip and Cook
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Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat and grease it lightly with butter or oil.
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Carefully dip each stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, letting it soak for about 5-10 seconds per side.
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Transfer to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Serve the French toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar if desired.
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Drizzle with maple syrup and top with fresh berries or bananas for a fruity twist.
Notes
Use Thick Bread – Brioche or challah works best, as it holds up to soaking without falling apart.
Don’t Overfill – Use a modest amount of cream cheese to avoid spilling while cooking.
Preheat the Skillet – Ensure the pan is hot enough for a golden, crispy crust.
Low & Slow – If the toast browns too quickly, reduce the heat to cook through without burning.
Let It Rest – If making ahead, keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American