Pumpkin Stuffed French Toast with Pecan Crumble Topping

This Pumpkin Stuffed French Toast with Pecan Crumble Topping is the perfect way to bring the cozy flavors of fall into your kitchen! Imagine waking up on a chilly autumn morning, wrapped in a warm blanket, while the rich aromas of pumpkin spice waft through your home. You can prepare a scrumptious breakfast that will impress everyone at the table. This dish offers a delightful combination of creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy pecans, making each bite both satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, giving you more time to sip coffee and enjoy your mornings. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Pumpkin Stuffed French Toast with Pecan Crumble Topping truly stands out during the fall season. The creamy filling made with rich pumpkin puree brings a satisfying texture. Meanwhile, the pecan crumble adds a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness. You can easily prepare this dish ahead of time, making it a perfect option for those busy mornings when you need a quick yet delicious breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Stuffed French Toast with Pecan Crumble Topping

Imagine waking up to the cozy aroma of pumpkin spice filling your kitchen. This recipe captures all the wonderful flavors of autumn in a single dish, creating a nostalgic experience that you’ll crave all year round. Whether it’s for a lazy weekend brunch or a festive holiday gathering, this French toast is bound to impress family and friends alike. Each slice offers a warm, comforting taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 8 slices French bread (2 inches thick)
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup milk
• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Mixing the Pumpkin Custard

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and whisking together the pumpkin puree, milk, eggs, sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ground cloves, and nutmeg. Blend everything until it’s smooth. Set your custard aside and get ready for the next step.

Making the Cream Cheese Filling

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Mix on medium-high speed with the paddle attachment for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Once it’s ready, set this aside, too.

Preparing the Pecan Topping

Now, let’s make the pecan topping! In a food processor, throw in the chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and shredded coconut. Pulse until the pecans are ground but still have little pieces—it should be a nice mix. Set this aside to sprinkle later.

Assembling the French Toast

Take a 9″ x 13″ baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Cut the French bread into 8 slices, each 2 inches thick. Make a careful incision in the center of each slice, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese filling inside each cut slice. Place the prepared slices in your baking dish. Pour the pumpkin custard all over the top and cover the dish with plastic wrap. It’s best to refrigerate this overnight so the bread can soak up all those tasty flavors.

Baking the French Toast

When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Take the French toast out of the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes while the oven warms up. Once it’s been sitting, sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the entire dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Pumpkin Stuffed French Toast warm from the oven. Go ahead and drizzle it with some maple syrup or dust it with powdered sugar. Pair it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to create a delightful brunch experience that everyone will love.

Tips for Success

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread holds its shape better and soaks up the custard without getting too mushy.
• Overnight Soak: Allowing the French toast to soak overnight ensures deep flavor and a custardy texture.
• Pecan Variation: Feel free to toss in other nuts or seeds to mix things up!

Variations

If you want to switch things up a bit, you can substitute the pumpkin puree with butternut squash puree for a unique twist. You could also add chocolate chips or blueberries to the cream cheese filling for an extra treat. For a little extra spice, consider tossing in ginger or allspice to the pumpkin custard mixture.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the French toast in the oven or microwave, which helps maintain that lovely texture.

Pairing Ideas

This Pumpkin Stuffed French Toast pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of spiced chai or a creamy pumpkin latte. For a heartier meal, add crispy bacon or savory sausage on the side to complete your breakfast spread.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free bread and check that all ingredients are gluten-free.

Q2: How can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
A: You can swap in a sugar alternative or use less sugar in the cream cheese filling.

Q3: Can I freeze the pumpkin French toast?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly and store for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Q4: What toppings go well with this dish?
A: Maple syrup, whipped cream, or caramel sauce make excellent toppings.

Q5: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Sure! Just make sure it’s properly cooked and pureed for the right consistency.

Indulging in this Pumpkin Stuffed French Toast with Pecan Crumble Topping allows you to savor the warm and comforting flavors of fall. Perfect for special breakfast occasions, it’s not just a meal—it’s a delightful experience to share with family and friends. So, embrace the season and create some cherished memories around your breakfast table!

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