If you’re craving a cozy, fall-inspired breakfast that comes together in just 25 minutes, look no further than these Pumpkin French Toast Sticks! Imagine thick, custardy fingers of brioche or Texas toast, beautifully golden on the outside, warm and fluffy inside, and absolutely bursting with sweet pumpkin flavor and fragrant spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just starting your own autumn morning on the right foot, these sticks deliver comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Plus, they’re dusted with powdered sugar and perfect for dipping into maple syrup, making them a fun and irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks couldn’t be easier, and each one truly matters. From soft slices of bread to a pumpkin-spiced custard, these elements work together for the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and that signature fall color.
- Thick-cut Texas toast or brioche bread: Using sturdy, fluffy bread slices helps these sticks hold their shape and soak up the pumpkin custard deliciously.
- Large eggs: They create the rich, custardy coating that makes every bite creamy and satisfying.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring your sticks are soft without becoming soggy.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe—brings authentic pumpkin flavor and that gorgeous orange hue.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance out the warm spices and elevate the pumpkin taste.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant boost that makes every bite smell and taste extra comforting.
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic pumpkin spice aroma and cozy flavor profile.
- Ground nutmeg: Plays beautifully with cinnamon, adding a hint of warmth and depth.
- Ground ginger: A touch of ginger rounds out the spice blend, giving the French toast a gentle zing.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all those sweet and spicy flavors—it’s the quiet hero of great French toast.
- Butter or oil for cooking: Creates that irresistible golden crust while keeping everything from sticking to your skillet.
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving: The finishing touch! These toppings turn breakfast into a celebration.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Sticks
Step 1: Slice the Bread
Start by taking your loaf of Texas toast or brioche and slicing it into thick sticks about 1 inch wide. You want sturdy pieces that won’t fall apart when dunked in the irresistible pumpkin custard later. Using day-old bread is best, as it soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy—perfect for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks that are crisp on the outside and soft in the center.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and pour in the whole milk. Add the pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Grab a whisk and beat the mixture until everything is smooth and well blended—the color will look like autumn sunshine and smell incredible thanks to all the spices.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Set your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a pat of butter or a drizzle of oil. You want the surface nice and hot (but not smoking) so the sticks will sizzle as soon as they hit the pan, ensuring that golden, crispy exterior.
Step 4: Dip and Coat the Sticks
Working a few at a time, dip each bread stick into your pumpkin custard, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides. Don’t leave them in too long—just a quick swim is enough to soak up the flavors without breaking apart. This is where the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks start transforming into something truly special.
Step 5: Cook Until Golden
Carefully place the coated sticks onto your hot skillet. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes, turning the sticks with tongs so all sides become crispy and beautifully browned. Once they’re done, transfer to a plate and keep them warm while you finish the batch. The kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
Step 6: Serve Warm
Arrange your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks on a plate, give them a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and don’t be shy with the maple syrup. Now it’s time to dig in—or share the joy with family and friends over a slow, cozy morning.
How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Sticks
Garnishes
For a finishing flair, dust your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks with powdered sugar or give them a drizzle of warm maple syrup. If you want to take it up a notch, add a dollop of whipped cream, toasted pecans, or even a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice right before serving for that gorgeous presentation and festive touch.
Side Dishes
Pair these sticks with fresh berries, crisp apple slices, or a simple fruit salad for a vibrant, refreshing contrast. A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt also makes a wonderful accompaniment, balancing the sweetness and adding a bit of protein for a more complete breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks in a sundae glass with whipped cream and pecans for a brunch dessert, or offer them on a platter with ramekins of maple syrup, caramel, or chocolate sauce for dipping. For kids, arrange the sticks into fun shapes or little “log cabins” on the plate—breakfast as art!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), simply let the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick, cozy breakfast fix.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled French toast sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy that pumpkin spice magic any time the craving hits.
Reheating
For a crispy texture, reheat the sticks in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a rush, a quick pop in the microwave works, too—just watch that they don’t become too soft. Either way, you’ll have Pumpkin French Toast Sticks that taste just as delightful as the day you made them.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of brioche or Texas toast?
While you can use regular sandwich bread in a pinch, thicker slices like brioche or Texas toast are best for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks since they soak up the custard without becoming soggy and hold their shape during cooking.
Is it okay to use non-dairy milk?
Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with your favorite non-dairy option, such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. The result will still be creamy and delicious, and these sticks will remain vegetarian and even more versatile.
What’s the best way to prevent the bread from getting too soggy?
Make sure to use day-old bread and dip each stick quickly in the custard mixture instead of soaking. This ensures the inside is moist and flavorful while the outside stays crisp and firm, just the way Pumpkin French Toast Sticks should be.
Can the custard mixture be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can whisk together the pumpkin custard mixture the night before. Give it a quick stir in the morning before dipping the bread, which makes prep even speedier for busy weekdays or holiday mornings.
What other toppings go well with Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?
Apart from maple syrup and powdered sugar, try topping with whipped cream, toasted nuts, a spoonful of apple butter, or even a handful of dried cranberries for a burst of color and crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something festive, cozy, and a little bit playful, please don’t hesitate to whip up a batch of Pumpkin French Toast Sticks. They’ll bring the spirit of fall to your table and definitely put smiles on everyone’s faces. Pour yourself some coffee, gather your loved ones, and enjoy this simple delight—you won’t regret it!
Print
Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are a delightful fall breakfast treat that combines the flavors of pumpkin spice with the comfort of French toast. Perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these sticks are a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 1 loaf thick-cut Texas toast or brioche bread
Custard:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Cooking:
- butter or oil
For Serving:
- maple syrup
- powdered sugar
Instructions
- Slice the Bread: Cut the bread into 1-inch sticks.
- Prepare Custard: Whisk eggs, milk, pumpkin, sugar, vanilla, spices, and salt in a bowl.
- Cook French Toast: Dip bread sticks in custard, cook in skillet until golden brown.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best results.
- Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice on top for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 sticks
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
