Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Caramelized Apples

Are you craving a breakfast that feels like fall in every bite? Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Caramelized Apples is the ultimate treat! It’s warm, comforting, and oh-so-delicious.

I love how the pumpkin spice gives that cozy, seasonal flavor, and the caramelized apples? Pure magic! They’re sweet, tender, and perfectly complement the French toast.

Just imagine biting into the crispy toast with a burst of spice and sweet apples melting in your mouth. It’s the perfect way to start your day – simple, satisfying, and delicious.

Ready to try it? Let’s make this easy, mouthwatering breakfast that’ll have you smiling from the first bite. You’ll never look at French toast the same way again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Fall Flavors: The combination of pumpkin spice and caramelized apples is pure autumn perfection.
• Crispy on the Outside, Custardy on the Inside: Thick slices of brioche or challah soak up the spiced custard for a perfect texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the caramelized apples ahead of time for an easy breakfast.
• Pumpkin Spice Heaven: Made with real pumpkin puree and warm spices, it’s a cozy seasonal favorite.
• Sweet and Tangy Apples: The caramelized apple topping adds a delicious contrast to the rich French toast.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this dish with ease, here are the essential kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Shallow dish for dipping bread
• Non-stick or cast-iron skillet
• Spatula
• Medium saucepan for caramelized apples
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife for slicing apples

Ingredients for the Pumpkin Spice French Toast

Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect pumpkin spice French toast (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

For the French Toast:

• Large eggs – Helps bind the custard and create that creamy, rich texture.
• Whole milk – Adds creaminess; you can substitute half-and-half for an extra indulgent taste.
• Heavy cream – Enhances the custard’s richness.
• Canned pumpkin puree – The star ingredient! Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the warm flavors of the dish.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves – The ultimate trio for that signature pumpkin spice flavor.
• Thick-cut bread slices – Brioche or challah work beautifully, but you can also use Texas toast.
• Butter for cooking – For a perfectly golden, crispy exterior.

For the Caramelized Apples:

• Medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – Peeled, cored, and sliced for a balance of tart and sweet.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness to the caramelized apples.
• Brown sugar – Gives the apples their deep, caramel flavor.
• Ground cinnamon – Brings warmth and spice to the apples.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• Lemon juice – Prevents the apples from becoming too sweet and keeps them bright.

Optional Toppings:

• Maple syrup – Classic and always a great choice.
• Whipped cream – For extra decadence.
• Powdered sugar – A light dusting adds a beautiful finishing touch.

Variations for Pumpkin Spice French Toast

• Use Different Bread: If brioche or challah isn’t available, try sourdough or French bread for a tangy contrast.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for extra crunch.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to the custard for a fresh, bright flavor.
• Sweeten Naturally: Swap granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup in the custard.
• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the caramelized apples for a touch of indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pumpkin Spice Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, and spices. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

2. Prepare the Bread

Place the thick-cut slices of bread in a single layer on a baking sheet. If your bread is fresh, leave it out for about 20 minutes to dry slightly—this helps it absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.

3. Dip the Bread in Custard

Pour the pumpkin spice custard into a shallow dish. Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 15-20 seconds per side. Make sure both sides are fully coated, but don’t let it become too soggy.

4. Cook the French Toast

1. Heat a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
3. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
4. Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate or baking sheet, and keep warm in a low oven (200°F) while you prepare the rest.

5. Make the Caramelized Apples

While the French toast is cooking, prepare the delicious caramelized apples.

Step-by-Step Caramelized Apples

1. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the apples: Stir in the sliced apples and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add sugar and spices: Sprinkle in ¼ cup brown sugar, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat the apples.
4. Simmer until tender: Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are soft and caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
5. Finish with lemon juice: Stir in 1 teaspoon of lemon juice for a fresh, tangy balance.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Caramelized Apples

Now that everything is ready, it’s time to assemble and serve.

Serving Suggestions:

• Place a stack of warm French toast slices on a plate.
• Generously spoon the caramelized apples over the top.
• Drizzle with pure maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent touch.
• Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a picture-perfect finish.
• Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.

Pro Tips for the Best French Toast

✔ Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, preventing it from becoming too soggy. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly before soaking.
✔ Low and Slow Cooking: Avoid high heat, as it can burn the outside while leaving the center undercooked. Medium heat is perfect.
✔ Even Soaking: Don’t rush the soaking process—letting the bread sit for at least 15-20 seconds ensures the custard gets absorbed evenly.
✔ Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use high-quality ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

Storing Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Caramelized Apples

How to Store Leftovers:

• French Toast: Allow the French toast to cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Caramelized Apples: Let the apples cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips:

• French Toast: Reheat the French toast on a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through. Alternatively, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Caramelized Apples: Reheat the apples in a small saucepan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Make-Ahead Instructions

If you’re preparing this dish for a busy morning or special occasion, you can make it ahead of time!

1. Pumpkin Spice Custard: Prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before using.
2. Caramelized Apples: You can make the caramelized apples a day ahead. Store them in the fridge, then reheat before serving.
3. French Toast: While fresh French toast is always best, you can cook it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat as mentioned above.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: The following values are approximate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	140mg
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	44g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	28g
Protein	5g
Vitamin A	60% DV
Vitamin C	10% DV
Calcium	6% DV
Iron	8% DV

Conclusion

Pumpkin Spice French Toast with Caramelized Apples is the perfect way to celebrate fall mornings with its rich, comforting flavors and golden crispy edges. The warm spices, tender apples, and decadent toppings create a dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether for a cozy weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Pumpkin Spice French Toast FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While brioche and challah are ideal for their richness, you can use French bread, Texas toast, or even whole wheat bread for a lighter alternative.

Can I make this recipe without pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can substitute the pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, swap the eggs for a flax egg or chia egg, use plant-based milk and cream (like almond or oat milk), and opt for vegan butter. You can also skip the whipped cream topping or use a non-dairy version.

How do I keep the French toast crispy?

To keep the French toast crispy, avoid over-soaking the bread. Also, cooking on medium heat ensures the outside gets golden brown without overcooking the inside. You can keep it warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.

Can I freeze the French toast?

Yes! To freeze, cook the French toast as usual, allow it to cool, and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply pop it in the toaster or oven for a crispy finish.