Name: Pumpkin French Toast with Spiced Pecan Syrup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup half & half (or whole milk); 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 (14 oz) loaf brioche bread, sliced into 1/2-inch slices; 2-4 tablespoons butter (for pan); 1 cup maple syrup; 2 tablespoons water; 1 cinnamon stick; 4 whole cloves; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 4 oz (about 1 cup) halved pecans

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If you’ve been searching for a cozy, fall-inspired breakfast that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then this Pumpkin French Toast with Spiced Pecan Syrup Recipe is your new best friend. Picture thick slices of soft brioche, soaked in a luscious pumpkin-spiced custard, cooked to golden perfection, then generously draped with a warm, aromatic syrup studded with crunchy pecans. It’s the perfect way to start a crisp autumn morning or impress brunch guests with a dish that tastes as delightful as it looks. I promise, once you try this Pumpkin French Toast with Spiced Pecan Syrup Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with a mix of ingredients before blending. Inside the bowl, two raw eggs with bright yellow yolks rest near the center, surrounded by pale yellow liquid and a rich orange pumpkin puree. On one side of the bowl, a heap of dark brown cinnamon powder spreads out, creating a textured layer. A silver metal whisk lies across the bowl with its handle extending to the right, partially mixing the ingredients. To the left of the bowl, several slices of golden brown bread are stacked and slightly fanned out. Above the bowl, a glass jar contains more cinnamon powder with a wooden spoon resting inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this recipe. Each staple plays a crucial role in building that perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and richness—making every bite unforgettable. Let’s break down what you need.

3 large eggs: The base of your custard, providing structure and fluffiness.
1/2 cup half & half (or whole milk): Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth batter for soaking the bread.
1/2 cup pumpkin puree: Brings that classic pumpkin flavor and beautiful orange hue.
1 Tablespoon maple syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to the custard.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with subtle warmth and depth.
1 teaspoon pumpkin spice: A fragrant blend that instantly evokes the essence of fall.
½ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a cozy, vibrant layer of spice.
1 (14 oz) loaf brioche bread (sliced into ½” slices): Perfectly soft and rich, it soaks up the custard without falling apart.
2-4 Tablespoons butter (for pan): For frying and building that golden, crispy crust.
1 cup maple syrup: The sweet base of your spiced pecan syrup.
2 tbsp water: Helps balance the syrup consistency.
1 cinnamon stick: Infuses the syrup with warm, spicy notes.
4 whole cloves: Adds a whisper of aromatic spice to the syrup.
⅛ tsp ground nutmeg: Complements the flavor profile with gentle earthiness.
4 oz (about 1 cup) halved pecans: Brings crunchy texture and nutty goodness to finish the syrup.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast with Spiced Pecan Syrup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Custard

In a large shallow bowl, beat together the eggs, half & half, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon until everything is smooth and perfectly combined. This custard brings all the pumpkin goodness together, creating a rich and flavorful soak for the bread.

Step 2: Heat and Butter the Griddle

Warm a griddle or large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Swirl it around so it melts fully and coats the entire cooking surface. This ensures your French toast develops that irresistible golden crust without sticking.

Step 3: Soak and Cook the Brioche

Working in batches, dip each slice of brioche into the custard mixture for about 10 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb just enough without becoming soggy. Then place the soaked slices carefully onto the hot greased griddle. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until beautifully golden and crisp, signaling that perfect balance between tender inside and crunchy outside.

Step 4: Make the Spiced Pecan Syrup

Combine the maple syrup, water, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and ground nutmeg in a small saucepan. Whisk gently, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse thoroughly. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves, then stir in the halved pecans. The nuts soak up that spiced syrup, making every bite heavenly.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Plate up your Pumpkin French Toast slices, drizzle generously with the warm spiced pecan syrup, and add a pat of butter on top if you like. This is breakfast bliss at its finest, warm, cozy, and incredibly satisfying.

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast with Spiced Pecan Syrup Recipe

A white pan filled with a single layer of shiny, dark brown pecan halves soaked in a thick amber syrup, the glossy syrup evenly covering the pecans and pooling slightly around the edges. The pecans have a rich texture with visible ridges and a few small broken pieces. The pan handle is visible at the lower left, resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dusting of cinnamon can add a charming touch. Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt lends a creamy contrast. Even a few extra pecans on top bring delightful crunch and elevate the presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crisp bacon or sausage for a savory balance. Fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or a berry mix provides bright, juicy freshness to offset the richness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also work wonderfully if you want a brunch with variety.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive brunch, stack the Pumpkin French Toast slices high and drizzle the spiced pecan syrup cascading down the sides. Serving it in individual ramekins with syrup on the side creates a personalized touch. You can even top it with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover French toast in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before covering to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

Pumpkin French Toast freezes beautifully. Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They last up to 1 month and can be reheated directly from frozen.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that perfect texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than brioche for this recipe?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its rich texture and sweetness, you can also use challah, thick-cut white bread, or even sourdough for a sturdier, tangier bite. Just make sure the slices are about ½ inch thick to soak up the custard nicely.

Is pumpkin puree from a can okay to use?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is the easiest option. Just ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that could alter the flavor balance.

Can I make the spiced pecan syrup ahead of time?

Definitely! The syrup can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before serving to bring back that luscious, pourable consistency.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Swap the half & half for any unsweetened plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use a dairy-free butter or oil for cooking. The pumpkin and spices will still shine beautifully.

Can I add other spices to the custard?

Feel free to experiment with ground ginger, cardamom, or cloves in small amounts to tailor the spice profile to your liking, but the classic pumpkin spice mix usually has the perfect blend for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin French Toast with Spiced Pecan Syrup Recipe is a celebration of fall flavors wrapped up in a decadent, comforting breakfast. It’s ideal for cozy family mornings or special brunch gatherings, guaranteed to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Once you’ve indulged in this warm, spiced delight, I bet you’ll want to keep this recipe close for every autumn to come.