Name: Cozy Pumpkin French Toast Sticks for Fall Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 slices French Bread or Brioche (A drier texture helps achieve crispness.); 2 Eggs (Large eggs yield the best results.); 1 cup Milk (Any type of milk can be used.); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Canned or homemade, avoid pie filling.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla extract recommended.); 1 tsp Cinnamon (Feel free to add more for extra spice.); 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice (Substitute with nutmeg and ginger if needed.); 2 tbsp Sugar (Alternative sweeteners can be used.); 1 tbsp Cinnamon; 2 tbsp Sugar

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the first leaves begin to turn, my kitchen transforms into a haven infused with the sweet and spicy essences of fall. One of my absolute favorites during this time is the Quick and Easy Pumpkin French Toast Sticks. These delightful morsels are crispy on the outside, yet tender and custard-like within, coated with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon sugar—perfect for dunking into warm maple syrup. Not only are these French toast sticks a breeze to whip up in just 15 minutes, but they also make for a family-friendly breakfast that keeps little hands and tummies happy. Whether you’re savoring the moment solo or gathering around the table with loved ones, these Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are sure to bring a smile to your morning. Ready to flip your breakfast game? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Crave Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?

Crispy Delight: These Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are incredibly crispy on the outside while remaining soft and custardy inside, creating a delightful bite.
Fall Favorite: Packed with cozy autumn flavors, they perfectly capture the essence of the season, making breakfast feel special.
Family-Friendly: Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, these sticks are a hit with both kids and adults—perfect for busy mornings!
Versatile Option: Enjoy them plain or dunked in syrup, or try serving with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a complete breakfast experience.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different breads or add-in options like chocolate chips for a twist, ensuring everyone at the table finds their favorite version! If you’re looking for a delightful seasonal treat, these Pumpkin Cream Cheese or Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed recipes are also sure to please.

Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Ingredients

• Perfect ingredients for your fall feast!

For the Batter

French Bread or Brioche – A drier texture helps achieve crispness; substitute with challah or sourdough if needed.
Eggs – Provides structure and richness; using large eggs will yield the best results.
Milk – Adds moisture and creaminess; any milk (dairy or non-dairy) can be used for this recipe.
Pumpkin Puree – Infuses warm flavor and moisture; opt for canned or homemade puree, but steer clear of pumpkin pie filling.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
Cinnamon – Offers a cozy spice flavor; feel free to add more for a spicier kick if that’s your style.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Creates a delightful blend of warming spices that play nicely with pumpkin; substitute with a mix of nutmeg and ginger if needed.
Sugar – Sweetens your cinnamon sugar topping; alternative sweeteners can be used if preferred.

For Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Cinnamon – Used in the cinnamon sugar; adds an extra touch of sweet spice to the finished sticks.
Sugar – Combined with cinnamon for the topping to create a delightful, crunchy finish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Begin by preheating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the pan evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter starts to bubble gently, indicating a perfect surface for the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a sizable baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy and evenly blended, offering rich autumn flavors that will envelop your French toast sticks.

Step 3: Coat the Bread
Take your French bread or brioche and cut it into thick sticks, about 1-2 inches wide. Dip each stick into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are generously coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing them in the skillet to achieve that crisp texture.

Step 4: Cook the Sticks
Place the dipped bread sticks into the heated skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn a golden brown. Flip them gently with a spatula, revealing a beautifully crisp exterior with a custard-like center.

Step 5: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
While the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are cooking, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping. In a separate dish, combine sugar and cinnamon, blending them together thoroughly. This fragrant mixture will add a sweet finish to your perfectly cooked sticks once they are ready.

Step 6: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar
Once the sticks are golden and cooked through, remove them from the skillet and immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. The warmth from the sticks will help the sugar adhere, creating a delightful, crunchy coating that enhances the delectable flavor of the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the warm Pumpkin French Toast Sticks immediately, accompanied by a drizzle of warm maple syrup or buttery pecan syrup. Consider adding a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast experience that everyone in the family will love!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Use Stale Bread: Using stale bread helps achieve the ideal crispy texture; if fresh, dry it in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Watch the Heat: Maintain a medium heat on your skillet to avoid soggy or burnt French toast sticks; adjust as necessary.
Chill the Batter: For a richer flavor, prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate, then dip the bread just before cooking.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 1-2 months to enjoy your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks later.
Mix and Match: Experiment with different types of bread or add-ins like chocolate chips to customize this recipe and satisfy everyone’s taste!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Fridge: Store any leftover Pumpkin French Toast Sticks in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked French toast sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen sticks, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Wrapping: If freezing, make sure to wrap the sticks tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a sealed freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Feel free to get creative and customize your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks with these delightful variations that will keep breakfast fresh and exciting!

Bread Choices: Swap out French bread or brioche for challah, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread for a different flavor profile and dietary needs.
Nutty Addition: Add Nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts into the egg mixture for a delightful crunch that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Chocolate Chips: Toss in some semisweet or dark chocolate chips for an indulgent twist. The melty chocolate makes each bite feel like a special treat!
Mini Pancakes: Full Slices: Make this recipe as full slices of French toast instead of sticks for a classic breakfast option. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Sugar Alternatives: Low-Calorie Sweetener: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to lower the sweetness without sacrificing flavor.
Dairy-Free Delight: Plant-Based Milk: Substitute regular milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk for a dairy-free variation that still delivers the creaminess you crave.
Spice It Up: Heat Level: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes to the batter. It adds an unexpected but delightful warmth!
Flavor Infusion: Maple Extract: Replace vanilla extract with maple extract for a lovely maple-infused flavor that deepens the autumn delight of your breakfast.

Once you’ve experimented with these variations, you might find yourself mixing and matching! They’re not only fun to try but also cater to everyone’s tastes. If you love experimenting with seasonal ingredients, be sure to check out our recipes for Pumpkin Cream Cheese muffins or Pumpkin Ricotta Stuffed shells for more cozy flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can prepare the custard batter up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can cut the bread into sticks and store them in the fridge separately, ensuring they stay fresh and ready to dip right before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, simply dip the prepared bread into the custard mixture and cook them in your skillet, allowing you to enjoy a warm, delicious breakfast with minimal effort and just as delightful as if freshly made!

What to Serve with Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Brighten up your breakfast table with enticing accompaniments that make every bite of your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks even more delightful.

Maple Syrup: The classic pairing adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the warm spices of the French toast. Drizzling it on top transforms your meal into a cozy autumn treat.
Fresh Berries: Add a burst of color and refreshing tang with strawberries or blueberries. Their juicy textures provide a lovely contrast to the soft, custardy sticks.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt introduces a tartness that balances out the sweetness. Plus, it adds protein to keep you satisfied throughout your morning.
Sautéed Apples: Warm, cinnamon-spiced sautéed apples bring the flavors of fall right to your plate. Their tender sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the pumpkin and cinnamon in the toast.
Crispy Bacon: For those who love a savory element, crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor. The combination of sweet and savory elevates your breakfast experience.
Café-Like Beverages: Treat yourself to a pumpkin spice latte or a rich hot chocolate. These warm drinks mirror the cozy notes found in your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks, making them the perfect brunch companion.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor. Their earthy taste wonderfully enhances the overall profile of the dish.
Whipped Cream: Top your French toast sticks with a dollop of airy whipped cream for an indulgent treat that feels luxurious. It’s a simple way to make breakfast extra special.
Milk or Almond Milk: Complement your meal with a cold glass of milk or almond milk—a refreshing way to balance the sweetness of your French toast sticks.

Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?
I recommend using stale French bread or brioche for the best results, as their drier texture helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior. If you have fresh bread, simply dry it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before using. Alternatively, challah or sourdough can also be delightful choices!

How should I store leftover Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?
Store any leftover Pumpkin French Toast Sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or skillet until they are warmed through and regain some crispiness.

Can I freeze Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cooked French toast sticks to cool completely. Then, flash freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can be stored for up to 1-2 months. When ready to eat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

What if my French toast sticks turn out soggy?
If your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks turn out soggy, it could be due to using too much batter or not allowing the excess to drip off. Ensure your skillet is at the right temperature—medium heat should do the trick! Adjust as needed. If using fresh bread, try drying it in the oven like mentioned before to achieve better crispness.

Are Pumpkin French Toast Sticks suitable for people with allergies?
You can definitely customize this recipe! If there are egg allergies, you might try a suitable egg replacer, like flaxseed or apple sauce. For dairy-free diets, any non-dairy milk works great. Remember to check all ingredient labels, especially for pre-packaged items, to ensure they meet dietary needs.