Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe
Okay, friends, if you’re looking for a cozy, bite-sized breakfast treat that’s bursting with fall flavors, this Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe is going to be your new favorite. I stumbled upon this idea when I had some leftover brioche and a craving for something pumpkin-spiced but quick to whip up. The bites are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and custardy inside, and just the right size for little hands or for grazing while you sip your morning coffee.
What I love most about this Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe is how versatile and forgiving it is. You can make it in under 15 minutes, and it works beautifully for casual weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or even a midweek pick-me-up when you want something special without a ton of fuss. Plus, the pumpkin pie spice adds just enough warm, nostalgic flavor that you’ll want these bites every pumpkin season and beyond.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, but together they create magic. When you pick your pumpkin puree, fresh or canned both work great—just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling for the best texture and flavor.
- Brioche bread: Using stale or lightly toasted brioche bread helps the bread soak up the custard without falling apart. Trust me, fresh bread might get too soggy.
- Egg: The heart of the custard mix, giving structure and richness.
- Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and that iconic pumpkin taste. Use plain canned pumpkin or homemade puree.
- Whole milk, heavy cream, or full-fat coconut milk: Adds creaminess; I sometimes switch to coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
- Pumpkin pie spice: You’ll want the warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to make these bites sing.
- Vanilla extract: Just a little to round out the flavors beautifully.
- Maple syrup (optional): I add this for the older kids or adults who want a touch of extra sweetness in the batter.
- Unsalted butter: For that perfect golden crust when frying.
Variations
I love making this Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe my own by swapping in or adding flavors that suit my mood or who I’m cooking for. Don’t be afraid to experiment—food tastes best when it fits you!
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free brioche or your favorite sturdy gluten-free bread. It still tastes fantastic and caters to everyone at the table.
- Vegan variation: Try flax eggs in place of eggs and use coconut milk plus a plant-based butter to keep it dairy-free and delicious.
- Extra sweet: Stir in a pinch of brown sugar or drizzle extra maple syrup on top after cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a splash of espresso powder or a dash of ginger for a little twist on the classic spice blend.
How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Bread
Start by cutting your brioche slices into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces work great. I like using slightly stale brioche—it absorbs the custard perfectly without falling apart in the pan. If your bread is super fresh, toasting it lightly first helps give it a bit more structure.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, pumpkin puree, milk (or cream), pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and maple syrup if using. Make sure everything is fully combined and smooth; getting the custard just right means your French toast bites will have that custardy texture inside.
Step 3: Soak the Bread Bites
Drop your bread cubes into the custard mixture, stirring gently to coat each piece. Let them soak for about 2 to 3 minutes so they soak in all that spiced pumpkin goodness. Watch them carefully so they don’t get too soggy and fall apart.
Step 4: Cook Them Up
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter until it’s bubbly but not burned. Use a slotted spoon or spatula to transfer the soaked bread cubes to the pan, giving them space so they cook evenly. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and crisp on the outside. Flip carefully and keep an eye out—they cook quickly!
How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping these bites with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. The ricotta adds a creamy tang that balances the spice and sweetness perfectly. Fresh seasonal fruit like berries or sliced apples make it feel extra festive and fresh.
Side Dishes
A simple side of crispy bacon or breakfast sausages pairs beautifully to add some savory balance. Sometimes, I serve these bites alongside a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a brunch feel that’s not too heavy, especially if you’re hosting friends!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist during fall gatherings, I’ve served these bites on festive skewers with alternating fruit and topped them with whipped cream. They make exceptional little finger foods for brunch parties or holiday breakfasts, and kids always love the playful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay surprisingly tender and flavorful for 2-3 days. I usually layer parchment paper between any stacked bites to keep them from sticking.
Freezing
I find that freezing these French toast bites works well if you want to prep ahead. Place cooked, cooled bites on a tray lined with parchment in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and reheat beautifully.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to crisp them back up. Microwaving works in a pinch but tends to make them a bit soggy.
FAQs
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Can I use a different bread instead of brioche for this Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche adds a lovely rich flavor and soft texture, you can also use challah, Texas toast, or even sturdy sandwich bread. Just make sure the bread isn’t too fresh and soft, or it might fall apart when soaked. Slightly stale bread is ideal for soaking up the custard without turning mushy.
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How do I prevent my Pumpkin French Toast Bites from being soggy?
Great question! The key is to soak the bread in the custard just long enough to absorb flavor but not so long it disintegrates. I usually let the cubes soak for 2-3 minutes and gently toss them occasionally. Also, cooking on a medium heat with plenty of butter helps the outside get golden and crispy, sealing in the custardy inside.
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Can I make this Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the milk and butter for full-fat coconut milk and a plant-based butter or oil. The coconut milk complements the pumpkin flavor really well, and the bites come out just as tasty and rich.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe holds a warm spot in my kitchen ritual during chilly mornings. It’s the perfect balance of cozy spices, creamy custard, and crispy edges that always brings a smile to my face, and I think you’ll feel the same. Next time you want a breakfast treat that’s easy, impressive, and utterly delicious, give these bites a try—you might just find a new family favorite.
Print
Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pumpkin French Toast Bites are a delightful fall-inspired breakfast or snack featuring bite-sized pieces of brioche bread dipped in a spiced pumpkin custard mixture and pan-fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats are served with creamy ricotta cheese and seasonal fruit, making them a comforting and flavorful option for pumpkin lovers.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 slices brioche bread – stale or lightly toasted
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp whole milk, heavy cream, or full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional for older kids)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Serving Suggestions
- Ricotta cheese (to serve)
- Seasonal fruit (to serve)
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Cut the brioche slices into small, bite-sized cubes. Using stale or lightly toasted bread helps the custard soak in without becoming too soggy.
- Make the custard mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, pumpkin puree, whole milk or cream, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and maple syrup if using until fully combined.
- Dip the bread bites: Dip each brioche cube into the pumpkin custard mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated but not overly saturated to prevent sogginess.
- Heat the pan: Place a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter until it foams gently.
- Cook the bites: Add the coated brioche bites to the pan in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the French Toast bites from the pan and serve warm alongside a dollop of ricotta cheese and fresh seasonal fruit for a balanced presentation and added flavors.
Notes
- Using stale or lightly toasted brioche ensures the bread absorbs the custard without falling apart.
- The pumpkin puree adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, enhanced by the pumpkin pie spice for a festive touch.
- Maple syrup is optional and recommended only for older kids due to its sugar content.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; these bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
- You can substitute ricotta cheese with Greek yogurt or cream cheese depending on preference.
- Adjust cooking heat as needed to avoid burning the bites while ensuring they are cooked through.
Keywords: Pumpkin French Toast, French Toast Bites, Pumpkin Breakfast, Fall Breakfast Recipe, Brioche French Toast
