Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe

There is something utterly delightful about Pumpkin French Toast Sticks that makes them an irresistible treat for any time of day. These crispy, golden sticks come packed with autumn’s favorite flavors, melding pumpkin puree, warm spices, and rich vanilla into each bite. Perfectly crispy on the outside yet soft and custardy inside, Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are a fun twist on classic French toast that’s as easy to eat as it is to make. Whether you’re looking for a festive breakfast or a comforting snack, this recipe brings a comforting, cozy vibe to your table with that wonderful pumpkin essence shining through.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential, each adding a special touch to the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks. The pumpkin puree lends moisture and deep flavor, spices bring warmth and aroma, and the bread provides the perfect texture foundation.

• French bread or brioche (1 loaf): Using thick slices and cutting them into sticks helps create that crispy crust and soft center you want.
• Large eggs (4): Eggs bind everything together, creating that luscious custard base for the bread to soak up.
• Milk (2/3 cup): This adds richness and keeps the bread tender once cooked.
• Pumpkin puree (1/2 cup): The star ingredient that gives these sticks their signature flavor and moist texture.
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp): Adds a lovely sweet aroma and depth of flavor.
• Cinnamon (2 1/2 tsp total): A warm spice that complements pumpkin beautifully and is split between the batter and sugar coating.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 tsp): Enhances the autumnal profile with cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
• Sugar (1/4 cup): Creates a sweet, crunchy coating when mixed with cinnamon.
• Butter (for cooking): Essential for browning the sticks to a perfect golden crisp.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Batter

Begin by heating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding a small pat of butter and allowing it to melt. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice thoroughly in a shallow rectangular dish. This mixture will be your flavorful soak.

Step 2: Cut the Bread

Take your loaf of French bread or brioche and slice it into 1-inch thick slices, then cut each slice into thirds. These smaller sticks are perfect for dipping, cooking evenly, and snacking.

Step 3: Dip and Cook

Dunk each piece of bread into the pumpkin mixture, making sure to coat both sides well but not soggy. Immediately place it onto the hot skillet. Let each side cook for about 2 minutes or until beautifully golden brown and slightly crisped.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar

While your sticks are cooking, mix the sugar and extra cinnamon in another shallow dish. This sweet spice coating will adhere beautifully to the warm toast sticks.

Step 5: Coat and Serve

When the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are perfectly cooked, remove them from the skillet and roll them immediately in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated generously. Serve them hot, accompanied by maple syrup or a pat of butter for an indulgent touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Garnishes

These Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are a blank canvas for fun garnishes. Try dusting with powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries for natural sweetness and brightness. A side of crispy bacon or sausage can add savory balance if you want a heartier breakfast spread. Even a smoothie or a cup of chai tea fits the autumnal mood perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, stack the sticks into little teepees on a platter and serve with small bowls of syrup and cream for dipping. You can also thread them onto skewers for a fun finger-food presentation, perfect for brunch parties or kids’ breakfasts. Turning these sticks into a dessert stack layered with cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar can make an unforgettable treat too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though these rarely last long), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their flavor while preventing them from drying out. Simply cover them well to avoid absorbing fridge odors.

Freezing

Pumpkin French Toast Sticks freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. This is a fantastic way to have a cozy breakfast ready any day, without starting from scratch.

Reheating

Reheat your frozen or refrigerated Pumpkin French Toast Sticks in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispy edges. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that wonderful texture intact. A quick re-toast in the pan with a little butter also works wonders.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than French bread or brioche?

Absolutely! While French bread or brioche are ideal for that soft inside and crispy outside, you can experiment with challah or even thick sandwich bread. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the custard soak without falling apart.

Is canned pumpkin puree okay to use?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and is the easiest option. Just avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that might throw off the flavors.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With some adjustments, yes! Substitute the eggs with a flax or chia egg, use plant milk like almond or oat milk, and cook in coconut oil or vegan butter. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty and pumpkin-packed.

How spicy are Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?

They’re gently spiced with cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice, giving warmth and cozy flavors rather than heat. If you prefer more spice, you can increase the pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter.

What’s the best syrup to serve with these?

Pure maple syrup is the classic and complements the pumpkin and spices beautifully. You can also try honey, caramel sauce, or even a cinnamon-spiced cream for different flavor profiles that pair wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly no better way to celebrate the cozy flavors of fall than with these homemade Pumpkin French Toast Sticks. Crispy, sweet, warmly spiced, and so easy to make, they quickly become a family favorite. Once you try them, you’ll understand why they have a special place on my breakfast table all season long. So grab your pumpkin puree and get dipping—these sticks are ready to make your mornings magical!

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