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To make a great Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole, gather these key ingredients: - 1 loaf of challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 large eggs - 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy) - 1 cup pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice mix (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger) - 1/2 teaspoon salt These ingredients combine for a creamy and spiced flavor that makes this dish so special. The challah bread adds a soft texture that soaks up all the goodness. You can make this casserole even better with some optional add-ins: - 1/2 cup chopped pecans - Chocolate chips - Raisins or dried cranberries Adding chopped pecans gives a nice crunch. Chocolate chips add sweetness, while raisins bring a chewy texture. Feel free to mix and match based on what you like. If you want a vegan version, swap out a few ingredients: - Use 4 flax eggs instead of regular eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) - Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk - Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar These swaps keep the recipe tasty and friendly for everyone. You won’t lose the rich flavor or creamy texture, and it will still be delightful! First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will cook the casserole evenly. Next, take a 9x13 inch baking dish and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray. This step keeps the casserole from sticking. In a large bowl, crack four large eggs. Add two cups of milk, either dairy or non-dairy. Mix in one cup of pumpkin puree for that great fall flavor. Then, pour in half a cup of brown sugar. This adds a nice sweetness. Don’t forget one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Finally, stir in one tablespoon of pumpkin spice mix and half a teaspoon of salt. Whisk it all together until smooth. Now, take your loaf of challah bread and cut it into one-inch cubes. Gently add the bread cubes into the egg mixture. Use a spatula to fold the bread into the mixture. Make sure each piece gets coated well. If you want some crunch, fold in half a cup of chopped pecans. Pour the bread and egg mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread the mixture out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. This soaking time helps the bread absorb the flavors. After soaking, uncover the dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes. You know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before you serve it. To get the best flavor, soak the bread well. After mixing the egg and pumpkin, fold in the bread gently. Make sure each piece is coated. Cover the dish and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. This helps the bread absorb all those tasty flavors. For a beautiful top, bake the casserole uncovered. This allows it to brown nicely. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes. If it looks dark but is not set, cover it with foil. This way, you avoid burning while the inside cooks. Cut the casserole into squares for serving. Drizzle warm maple syrup on top for sweetness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. If you want extra creaminess, add a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it warm to enjoy the best flavors! {{image_2}} You can use different types of bread for your casserole. Challah is soft and sweet, but other options work too. Try brioche for a rich flavor. Sourdough adds a nice tang. Whole wheat gives a hearty touch. Gluten-free bread is also an option for those who need it. Pumpkin spice is great, but you can mix it up! Add more cinnamon for a warm kick. Nutmeg brings a cozy feel. Consider cardamom for a unique twist. For extra sweetness, toss in some chocolate chips or dried fruit. These flavors can make your casserole special. To make this dish gluten-free, choose gluten-free bread. There are many brands available. You can also use cornbread for a different taste. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy your casserole without worry. To keep your pumpkin spice French toast casserole fresh, let it cool first. Once cool, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, take the casserole out of the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes. For a bit of extra warmth, you can microwave individual pieces for about 30 seconds, checking to see if it's warmed through. To freeze the casserole, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to label the bag with the date. The casserole can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then reheat it as mentioned above. Enjoy your cozy treat anytime! Yes, you can prepare this casserole the night before. Just mix the ingredients and pour them over the bread. Cover it and place it in the fridge. This allows the bread to soak overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven. It saves time and makes mornings easier. If you don't have challah, you can use brioche or any thick bread. French bread also works well. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the egg mixture. This helps to get a nice texture in the casserole. The casserole can last up to four days in the fridge. Just store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, you can warm it up in the oven or microwave. This makes for an easy breakfast or snack! Yes! You can use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk. Almond milk or oat milk works great. You can also use a dairy-free butter for greasing the dish. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty casserole. This blog post walks you through making a tasty Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I shared variations, storage methods, and answered common questions. This casserole is easy to make and fun to share. Don't be afraid to get creative with flavors or ingredients. Enjoy every bite of your delicious creation!

Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole

Delight in the flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole! Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this easy recipe features buttery challah bread soaked in a creamy pumpkin mixture, baked to perfection, and topped with maple syrup. It's a comforting dish that serves 8-10 and is ideal for gatherings. Ready to impress your friends and family? Click through for the full recipe and start baking a cozy fall treat today!
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Ingredients
  

1 loaf of challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 large eggs

2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon pumpkin spice mix (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

    In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin spice mix, and salt until well combined.

      Add the cubed challah bread into the egg mixture and gently fold until all the bread is coated. If using, fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch.

        Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

          Cover the dish with aluminum foil and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the mixture.

            After soaking, uncover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.

              Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 1 hr 10 mins | Serves 8-10

                  - Presentation Tips: Cut into squares and serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness. Add a dollop of whipped cream if desired!