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Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
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Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a cozy and delicious fall breakfast casserole featuring thick bread soaked overnight in a rich custard made of pumpkin puree, warm spices, and sweeteners. This easy-to-make dish bakes to golden perfection, delivering a hearty, festive start to your day that requires minimal morning effort and is perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 8–10 thick slices brioche or challah bread
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk or cream (or dairy-free alternative like almond, oat, or coconut milk)
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Additional Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons butter (plus extra for dotting on top before baking)

Optional Mix-ins and Variations

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (nutty upgrade)
  • 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries, apples, or blueberries (fruit delight)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, milk or cream, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until smooth and well combined.
  2. Assemble the casserole: Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the thick slices of bread evenly in the pan. Pour the pumpkin custard mixture over the bread, pressing gently to ensure each piece soaks thoroughly.
  3. Refrigerate overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard and flavors fully.
  4. Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and dot the top with small pieces of butter. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden and set but still slightly soft inside.
  5. Serve warm: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Add your favorite toppings such as syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Choose sturdy, thick bread like brioche or challah to prevent sogginess and ensure even soaking.
  • Do not skip the overnight refrigeration step for best flavor and custardy texture; a minimum of 4 hours soaking works if pressed for time.
  • Use fresh ground spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a vibrant aroma and taste.
  • Dotting butter on top before baking creates a golden, crispy crust.
  • This casserole can be customized with nuts, fruits, and syrups to suit personal tastes and dietary needs.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in an oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, french toast casserole, fall breakfast, overnight casserole, pumpkin spice, easy breakfast, brunch

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/overnight-pumpkin-french-toast-casserole/