A cozy, autumn-inspired twist on classic French toast that brings together the warm flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese—perfect for a comforting breakfast or festive brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines two beloved breakfast treats—French toast and pumpkin pie—into one decadent dish
Cream cheese–pumpkin filling adds richness and a hint of sweetness
Uses simple, everyday ingredients (plus a little spice!) for a quick yet indulgent meal

Pumpkin Pie French Toast

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 slices of bread (your choice; brioche or challah work beautifully)
1 egg
1/4 cup Fairlife milk
Pumpkin pie spice (to taste, for the custard soak and filling)

For the filling:

2 tbsp cream cheese
2 tbsp canned pumpkin
1 tbsp powdered sugar
Pumpkin pie spice (a pinch)

directions

Prepare the filling. In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, canned pumpkin, powdered sugar, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Make the custard. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, Fairlife milk, and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice until well blended.
Assemble the toast. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin-cream cheese mixture onto 4 slices of bread. Top each with another slice to form 4 sandwiches.
Soak the sandwiches. Dip each sandwich into the custard mixture for about 10 seconds per side, ensuring even coating but not oversaturating the bread.
Cook the French toast. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil. Cook each sandwich 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve. Slice diagonally and serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with maple syrup.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 sandwich-style French toast servings (8 slices of bread)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Substitute ricotta or mascarpone for cream cheese for a lighter, fluffier filling
Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the custard mixture
Top with pecan halves, chopped walnuts, or toasted coconut for added crunch
Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and cream cheese alternatives

storage/reheating

To store: Let leftovers cool fully, then wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat: Unwrap and place on a baking sheet. Warm in a 350 °F (175 °C) oven for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. For faster reheating, microwave for 30–45 seconds per sandwich.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free or whole‑grain bread?

Yes! Just be mindful that denser breads may need a slightly longer soak and cook time.

2. What’s the best bread to use?

Rich, slightly sweet breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best for texture and flavor.

3. Can I prep the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely—make the filling up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge.

4. How do I prevent soggy toast?

Don’t over-soak the bread. Dip just long enough to coat, then cook on a medium-hot skillet to set the custard quickly.

5. Can I freeze any leftovers?

Yes—wrap cooled sandwiches tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat from frozen in a 350 °F oven for 10–12 minutes.

6. Is canned pumpkin just pumpkin pie filling?

No. Canned pumpkin is pureed pumpkin. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices—be sure to use plain canned pumpkin.

7. Can I add mix‑ins like chocolate chips?

Yes! Fold in dark chocolate chips or raisins into the filling before spreading.

8. How much pumpkin pie spice should I use?

For the custard, 1/4–1/2 teaspoon; for the filling, a pinch to complement the pumpkin flavor.

9. What toppings pair well?

Maple syrup, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar go great with this French toast.

10. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—use plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy) and dairy-free cream cheese for a lactose-free version.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Pie French Toast takes your morning toasty indulgence to the next level with creamy pumpkin filling and cozy spice flavors. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for when you want something festive yet simple. Serve it at a weekend brunch or a special breakfast—and enjoy the warm, comforting tastes of fall any time of year!