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Cozy Pumpkin French Toast Casserole Bake Easy Recipe with Maple Bourbon Syrup

cozy pumpkin french toast casserole bake - featured image

A comforting and flavorful pumpkin French toast casserole baked to golden perfection and served with a warm maple bourbon syrup, perfect for cozy autumn mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (about 12 ounces / 340 grams), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 6 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup whole milk or 2% milk (dairy-free milk like oat or almond can be used)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For the Maple Bourbon Syrup:
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh whipped cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Cut brioche or challah loaf into 1-inch cubes and place evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth.
  3. Pour custard evenly over bread cubes, pressing gently to soak. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let casserole sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
  5. Remove cover and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until golden and set. Tent with foil if edges brown too quickly.
  6. While baking, warm maple syrup, bourbon, and butter in a saucepan over low heat until butter melts and syrup is warm. Do not boil.
  7. Let casserole rest 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with warm maple bourbon syrup and add optional toppings as desired.

Notes

Use sturdy bread like brioche or challah to prevent sogginess. Soak bread overnight for best texture. Tent with foil if edges brown too fast. Warm syrup gently to preserve flavor. Let casserole rest before serving for easier slicing. Can be adapted for gluten-free or vegan diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin, french toast casserole, maple bourbon syrup, autumn breakfast, cozy breakfast, brunch, pumpkin puree, baked french toast