Description
This Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Cider Syrup is a festive and flavorful breakfast treat perfect for autumn mornings. Thick slices of brioche are dipped in a creamy pumpkin-spiced custard and pan-fried until golden and crisp, then topped with a sweet and tangy apple cider syrup. Optional cream cheese adds a luscious, rich surprise inside the toast. This recipe serves six and brings cozy fall flavors to your table.
Ingredients
French Toast
- 1 loaf brioche bread, sliced into 1 inch thick slices
- 8 ounces cream cheese (optional)
- 4 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Butter, for greasing skillet
Cider Syrup
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the stuffed bread (optional): If using cream cheese, slice the brioche loaf 3/4 of the way through each slice to create a pocket. Gently spread cream cheese inside the pocket, then press to seal it closed. It does not need to be perfectly sealed.
- Make the custard mixture: In a shallow medium bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, whole milk, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of brioche (stuffed or plain) into the egg mixture, letting each side soak for 1 to 2 minutes to absorb the custard thoroughly. For stronger flavor, the bread can be soaked overnight in the custard mixture, covered and refrigerated.
- Cook the French toast: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and coat with butter. Place the soaked bread slices in batches without overcrowding. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. Remove from skillet once cooked through.
- Make the cider syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine maple syrup and apple cider. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half and becomes thick and syrupy. Remove from heat and stir in the salted butter until melted and incorporated.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm cider syrup over the cooked pumpkin spice French toast immediately. Serve hot for best flavor and texture. Enjoy your cozy fall breakfast!
Notes
- The cream cheese is optional and adds richness and a creamy texture inside the French toast.
- You can soak the bread overnight in the custard mixture to save time in the morning and intensify the flavor.
- Use thick slices of brioche for best results; thinner slices may fall apart or soak too much custard.
- The cider syrup can be made ahead and warmed up before serving.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking and crispness.