Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, autumn-inspired breakfast that will have everyone reaching for seconds, this Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe is your new go-to. Picture crisp, golden sticks of French toast infused with creamy pumpkin puree and warm spices, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and served with syrup for dipping. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and comforting that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re making a special weekend brunch or a fun treat for the kids, these pumpkin French toast sticks are easy to whip up and guaranteed to brighten the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your pumpkin French toast sticks. From the fluffy bread to the aromatic spices and creamy pumpkin puree, every component adds something special.

• French bread or brioche: Choose a sturdy loaf sliced into sticks to soak up the custard without falling apart.
• Large eggs: Eggs bind the custard and help create that rich, golden crust.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and helps thin out the pumpkin custard for even coating.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings earthy sweetness and beautiful color.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle aromatic warmth.
• Cinnamon: Provides that classic cinnamon flavor that pairs impeccably with pumpkin.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of spices that deepens the pumpkin’s cozy taste.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and, when mixed with cinnamon, gives the perfect finishing touch.
• Butter: For cooking, which helps create a crisp, golden crust on the sticks.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the skillet and custard mixture

Start by warming a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and melting a small amount of butter in it. This ensures your French toast sticks develop a beautiful golden crust without sticking. Meanwhile, in a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and well combined. This pumpkin custard will infuse the bread with deep autumn flavors and moisture.

Step 2: Dip the bread sticks

Take your sliced French bread or brioche sticks and gently dip them into the pumpkin custard mixture. Be sure to soak each side so the bread fully absorbs the rich pumpkin flavor. Flip carefully and let both sides get luxuriously coated.

Step 3: Cook until golden

Place the soaked bread sticks onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until each stick develops a crispy, golden brown exterior. The contrast between the crunchy outside and soft, custardy inside is exactly what makes this recipe so irresistible.

Step 4: Prepare cinnamon sugar and coat the sticks

While the sticks cook, mix sugar and cinnamon in a small dish. As soon as each French toast stick finishes cooking, roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This sweet coating adds a delightful crunch and extra warm spice note that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Step 5: Serve immediately

Serve your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe right away for the best flavor and texture. Offer alongside maple syrup or a rich buttered pecan syrup to take it over the top. These sticks are perfect for dipping, making breakfast feel fun and festive.

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar or chopped toasted pecans over the top for an elegant finishing touch. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt on the side adds creaminess that pairs well with the spicy pumpkin flavor.

Side Dishes

Complement these French toast sticks with fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or berries to balance the sweetness with natural tartness. For a savory contrast, crispy bacon or breakfast sausage works wonderfully too, creating a deliciously rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the sticks in a tall glass or mason jar for a playful presentation that’s great for brunch parties or kids. You can also arrange them alongside a fun dipping station with various syrups, nut butters, and fruit compotes to let everyone customize their bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover pumpkin French toast sticks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They remain tasty and fresh but are best enjoyed shortly after cooking for that perfect crispness.

Freezing

To freeze, lay the cooled sticks out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. This way, you can enjoy a quick pumpkin-inspired breakfast treat any time.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated sticks in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F until warmed through and crisp again, about 5–8 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy and less appealing.

FAQs

Can I use another type of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While French bread and brioche work best because of their sturdiness and subtle sweetness, you can also try challah or even thick-sliced sandwich bread. Just make sure it’s slightly firm to soak up the custard without falling apart.

Is canned pumpkin puree the best option?

Canned pumpkin puree is ideal for its smooth texture and consistent flavor. If you want, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin at home, but make sure it’s well strained to avoid excess moisture that might affect the custard consistency.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the eggs with a flax egg or commercial egg replacer and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Use vegan butter for cooking and ensure that your bread doesn’t contain dairy or eggs.

What’s the best syrup to use?

Maple syrup is the classic choice and pairs beautifully with pumpkin and cinnamon flavors. For something different, try buttered pecan syrup or a caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Can I turn this into a gluten-free recipe?

Definitely! Use gluten-free bread that holds up well when dipped in custard. Many gluten-free brioche or artisan loaves work nicely and keep the texture tender without crumbling.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe is a warm, inviting way to celebrate all the best flavors of fall in a playful, shareable format. It’s a recipe that promises smiles and satisfied appetites with every bite. I truly encourage you to try making these sticks your own weekend tradition — once you do, I’m certain they’ll find a permanent spot on your breakfast rotation!

Print