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- 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes - 4 large eggs - 2 cups milk - 1 cup pure pumpkin puree - 1/4 cup maple syrup - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) - Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) These ingredients create a warm, cozy dish. The bread forms a soft base. The pumpkin puree brings rich flavor. The spices add warmth and sweetness. You can use other bread types if you like. Sourdough or whole wheat bread works well. Eggs can be replaced with flax eggs for vegan options. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk. For a sweeter option, use honey instead of maple syrup. Chopped pecans add a nice crunch. You can also add walnuts or raisins for more texture. Top with whipped cream for added indulgence. A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the flavor, making it even more special. Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish. 1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking. 2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. A non-stick spray or butter works well. 3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together these ingredients: - 4 large eggs - 2 cups milk - 1 cup pure pumpkin puree - 1/4 cup maple syrup - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon salt 4. Mix until everything is combined well. This will be your custard base. 5. Cut a loaf of challah or brioche bread into 1-inch cubes. Add the bread to the egg mixture. 6. Stir gently to coat all the bread pieces. Let it soak for 15 minutes. 7. If you like, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans for a crunchy texture. 1. After soaking, pour the bread mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. 2. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Watch for a golden brown top. 3. Check if the center is set. You can do this by gently shaking the dish. 4. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. - Oven Variations: All ovens are different. Keep an eye on your casserole. - Covering: If the top browns too fast, cover it with foil halfway through baking. - Testing Doneness: Use a toothpick. It should come out clean from the center. - Resting Time: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle. To get the best texture, use fresh challah or brioche bread. This bread stays soft and soaks up the mixture well. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. This size helps each piece soak evenly. Letting the bread sit in the egg mixture for 15 minutes is key. This step gives it a nice, creamy feel. If you want a crispy top, bake it a bit longer. Just watch it closely so it doesn't burn. Serve this casserole warm for the best taste. It looks nice on a large platter. Dust it with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also add whipped cream on top for a sweet touch. For a fun twist, drizzle extra maple syrup over it. This adds more flavor and makes it extra special. Pair it with fresh fruit like berries or bananas for a colorful plate. Coffee is a great choice with this dish. A rich, dark roast really enhances the pumpkin flavor. You could also serve hot apple cider. Its sweet and spiced notes match well with the casserole. For a fun twist, try a pumpkin spice latte. This drink adds to the fall vibe. For kids, a glass of milk or a sweet fruit juice works well too. Choose drinks that balance the sweet and spicy notes in the casserole. {{image_2}} You can add seasonal flavors to your casserole. Try mixing in apple slices for a sweet twist. Diced pears also bring a nice touch. A sprinkle of cranberries can add color and tartness. You could even add a hint of orange zest for some brightness. Each of these options makes your dish unique and fun. While I love using challah or brioche, you can switch things up. Use sourdough for a tangy flavor. Whole wheat bread adds a nutty taste and extra fiber. Even cinnamon raisin bread can bring sweetness. Just remember to cut the bread into cubes. This helps it soak up the egg mixture well. For a gluten-free version, you can choose gluten-free bread. There are many options available now. Just make sure it is sturdy enough to hold the mixture. You can also use almond milk instead of regular milk. This keeps the dish creamy while being gluten-free. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole without worry! After enjoying your Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh. Place it in the fridge. It will last up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it. For best taste, eat it within this time frame. To enjoy your casserole again, reheat it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. Check if it’s warm all the way through before serving. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a good option. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned before. Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day ahead. Just mix the ingredients as directed. Then, cover it and refrigerate overnight. This helps the bread soak up the pumpkin mixture. In the morning, all you need to do is bake it. This makes serving easy for brunch or special occasions. Your casserole is done when the top is golden brown. You should also check the center. Insert a knife; it should come out clean. If it’s still wet, bake for a few more minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the top. This casserole pairs well with many sides. Consider fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas. Maple syrup is a classic choice for drizzling. You could also add whipped cream for a creamy touch. For drinks, try coffee or spiced apple cider. These will complement the warm flavors of the casserole perfectly. In this article, we explored the key ingredients and steps for making a delicious casserole. We covered ingredient swaps, add-ins, and even storage tips. Mastering baking and serving techniques can elevate your dish. Remember, you can adapt flavors to fit any season. Keep experimenting with alternatives to suit your needs. I hope this guide fuels your passion for creating tasty meals. With these insights, you’ll feel confident in the kitchen. Now, go make your Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole shine!

Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole! This easy-to-follow recipe uses fluffy challah bread soaked in a creamy pumpkin mixture, perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Ideal for cozy breakfasts or festive gatherings, this dish is sure to impress. Click through to discover how to create this delicious and comforting casserole that will warm your heart and home!
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Ingredients
  

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

4 large eggs

2 cups milk

1 cup pure pumpkin puree

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.

      Add the cubed bread into the egg mixture, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let it soak for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the bread absorbs the mixture.

        If using, fold in the chopped pecans to the bread mixture for added crunch.

          Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

            Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

              Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

                Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness, if desired.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8