Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole Recipe

Challah bread: A rich, eggy bread that absorbs the custard mixture well, providing a soft and flavorful base for the casserole.

Eggs: Essential for creating the custard mixture that binds the bread together and gives the casserole its structure.

Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the custard mixture, helping to soak the bread thoroughly.

Pumpkin puree: Provides the signature pumpkin flavor and adds a creamy texture to the custard.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor that complements the pumpkin and spices.

Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that enhances the pumpkin flavor.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the casserole.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

For an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the challah bread cubes lightly before adding them to the egg mixture. This will give the French toast casserole a delightful crunch and prevent it from becoming too soggy.

• challah bread - Substitute with brioche bread: Brioche has a similar rich and tender texture, making it an excellent alternative for a custardy casserole.

• challah bread - Substitute with French bread: French bread can be used if you prefer a slightly chewier texture and a more neutral flavor.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This works well as a binding agent for a vegan option.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a dairy-free alternative that maintains the creamy consistency.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a subtle coconut flavor and is also a good dairy-free option.

• pumpkin puree - Substitute with sweet potato puree: Sweet potato puree has a similar texture and sweetness, making it a good alternative.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and a similar caramel-like flavor.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a different but complementary sweetness and can be used in a slightly reduced quantity.

• pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with individual spices: Use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in the same proportions to mimic pumpkin pie spice.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral content.

• Allow the Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the casserole soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you prefer individual servings, cut the casserole into portions and place them in airtight containers. This makes it easier to grab a quick breakfast or snack.
• To freeze, wrap the entire casserole or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For individual portions, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.
• To maintain the crispy top, you can place the thawed casserole under the broiler for a few minutes after reheating. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
• Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method ensures the casserole retains its crispy top and moist interior.

• Microwave Method: Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it heats evenly. This method is quick but may result in a slightly softer texture.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place slices of the casserole in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly crispy. This method adds a delightful crunch to the reheated slices.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. This method gives a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method is convenient and maintains the texture well.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) until it is golden and set.

• Baking dish: Greased to prevent sticking and used to hold the bread mixture while baking.

• Large mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt.

• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly mixing the wet ingredients to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt precisely.

• Spatula: Helpful for stirring the bread cubes into the wet mixture, ensuring they are well coated.

• Knife: Used to cut the challah bread into cubes.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the bread.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool evenly after baking.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar the night before.

Use pre-cut bread: Save time by buying pre-cut challah bread or cutting it in advance.

Whisk efficiently: Use an electric mixer to quickly blend eggs, milk, and other wet ingredients.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while preparing the mixture to save time.