Get ready to fall in love with the autumn-inspired delight of Pumpkin French Toast Bites! Imagine golden, crispy bite-sized cubes of brioche, cozily soaked in a warmly spiced pumpkin custard, then sizzled to perfection and finished with a shower of crunchy pecans and a sweet drizzle of maple syrup. These little morsels are the unforgettable breakfast treat you’ll want to enjoy all season long—perfect for cozy brunches or as a quick morning pick-me-up. Pumpkin French Toast Bites strike the perfect balance between comfort and excitement, embodying everything that’s wonderful about fall flavors in every irresistible mouthful.

Pumpkin French Toast Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of staple ingredients to make Pumpkin French Toast Bites, but each one plays a starring role in the flavor, texture, and cozy color of this breakfast treat. Don’t be afraid to use your best bread and generous spices—the results are absolutely worth it!

Thick Slices of Bread: Brioche or artisanal soft bread adds a rich, fluffy base that soaks up the pumpkin custard beautifully without falling apart.
Eggs: Provides structure and creates the classic French toast custard coating on every cube.
Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show, giving those autumnal flavors and a gorgeous orange hue.
Milk: Softens the custard mixture and helps everything blend together smoothly.
Pumpkin Spice: Delivers cozy, aromatic notes—think cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves—that infuse each bite with autumn warmth.
Ground Cinnamon: Gives an extra punch of spice and enhances the pumpkin flavor.
Pinch of Salt: Brings all the flavors into sharp focus and keeps the sweetness balanced.
Maple Syrup: For finishing—its sweetness pairs perfectly with the spices and pumpkin. Don’t skip it!
Pecans (optional): Add a delicious crunch and a nutty depth that complements the soft bites.
Pumpkin Seeds (optional): Another layer of crunch and a lovely fall-inspired garnish.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Start by heating your griddle or a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. A little butter or a swipe of olive oil will ensure you get that golden crust without sticking. A well-heated surface is key for good browning on the Pumpkin French Toast Bites, so let your pan get nice and hot while you prep the custard.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Pumpkin Custard

In a big bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, pumpkin spice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This creamy, fragrant mixture is what gives every bite its decadent autumnal flavor. Be sure everything is blended thoroughly—a few extra whisk turns won’t hurt!

Step 3: Cube That Bread

Time to cut your bread slices into chunky, even cubes, about 1 inch each. Thick cubes ensure the inside stays perfectly soft and custardy while the outside turns crisp and golden—a key trademark of the best Pumpkin French Toast Bites.

Step 4: Soak and Sizzle

Give your bread cubes a quick, gentle toss in the pumpkin custard mixture. You want them fully coated, but not so soggy they lose their shape—just a fast dip does the trick! Then, carefully transfer them to your preheated pan.

Step 5: Cook and Flip

Let each side cook for 2 to 3 minutes, turning periodically, until all sides are deeply golden and crisp. The aroma at this stage is pure fall magic! Once they’re evenly browned, you’re ready to serve up these delightful Pumpkin French Toast Bites while they’re nice and warm.

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Bites

Garnishes

For the ultimate finish, shower your Pumpkin French Toast Bites with a handful of crushed pecans and pumpkin seeds. The nuts add crunch and a slightly buttery richness, while a final drizzle of maple syrup brings everything together in sticky-sweet perfection. If you like, a dusting of powdered sugar or an extra pinch of cinnamon makes things even more festive.

Side Dishes

These bites are incredible alongside crispy bacon, fresh-cut fruit, or a heap of vanilla Greek yogurt. Round out your brunch table with coffee or hot cider, and you’ve got a breakfast spread that celebrates fall in every way!

Creative Ways to Present

For a special gathering, skewer the Pumpkin French Toast Bites on toothpicks and arrange them on a platter with dipping bowls of maple syrup, yogurt, or Nutella. Or, serve in small bowls with a decorative swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra pumpkin spice—perfect for brunch parties or breakfast-for-dinner nights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Pumpkin French Toast Bites left over, simply let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep fresh and tasty for up to two days, and you can easily revive them when you’re ready for seconds.

Freezing

Pumpkin French Toast Bites are surprisingly freezer-friendly! Once cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they’ll keep for up to a month without losing texture or flavor. Perfect for future cozy mornings!

Reheating

To reheat, pop the bites in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for a few minutes, or zap them in the microwave for about 30 seconds. The oven method keeps them crisp on the outside, while the microwave is quick and easy when you’re in a rush.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for Pumpkin French Toast Bites?

Absolutely! While brioche or soft artisanal bread gives a wonderfully rich texture, you can use challah, Texas toast, or any thick-cut bread that holds up to soaking. Just avoid super-thin sandwich bread, which can get mushy.

Is canned pumpkin puree the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No—be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling comes pre-sweetened and spiced, which can overpower the delicate balance of flavors in Pumpkin French Toast Bites.

Can I make Pumpkin French Toast Bites dairy free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and use a dairy-free butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan. The result is still fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for everyone at the table.

What other toppings would work besides pecans and pumpkin seeds?

Get creative! Try whipped cream, fresh berries, sliced bananas, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or a swirl of caramel sauce. Each adds a new dimension to your Pumpkin French Toast Bites.

Can I make the custard mixture ahead of time?

Definitely. Whisk up the pumpkin custard the night before and store it covered in the fridge. In the morning, give it a quick stir before you dunk your bread cubes—easy and time-saving!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a way to bring the cozy magic of fall into your kitchen, Pumpkin French Toast Bites are the answer. Every bite is like a little celebration of autumn, with warm spices, tender pumpkin, and the perfect finishing touches. Invite some friends, pour the coffee, and treat yourself to this easy and irresistible breakfast—after one taste, you’ll be hooked!