Delightful Autumn Mornings: Pumpkin French Toast Sticks Recipe

Table of Contents

Introduction:

As the leaves turn brilliant hues of red and gold and a crisp breeze fills the air, autumn brings with it a palette of flavors that excite the senses. Among these delights is the beloved pumpkin, the quintessential symbol of fall. Embrace the spirit of the season with a delicious twist on a breakfast classic: Pumpkin French Toast Sticks. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon, the richness of pumpkin puree, and the comfort of French toast into irresistible finger-sized delights perfect for cozy mornings.

Ingredients:

6 slices of thick-cut bread (preferably day-old bread)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup milk (whole milk or any milk of your choice)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Butter or oil for cooking
Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Bread:

If using fresh bread, it’s ideal to let it sit out overnight to slightly dry out, which helps absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy. Alternatively, you can toast the bread lightly to achieve the same effect. Once ready, slice the bread into sticks, about 1-inch wide.
Make the Pumpkin French Toast Mixture:

In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined. This mixture will be the flavorful bath for your bread sticks.

Dip and Soak:

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a pat of butter or a drizzle of oil to coat the surface.
Dip each bread stick into the pumpkin mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Ensure the bread is evenly coated but not overly saturated.

Cook the French Toast Sticks:

Place the coated bread sticks onto the preheated skillet or griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Depending on the size of your skillet or griddle, you may need to cook the sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooked to perfection, transfer the Pumpkin French Toast Sticks to a plate.
Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup for a delightful autumn breakfast treat.

Tips for Success:

For extra indulgence, you can sprinkle powdered sugar over the French toast sticks before serving.
Customize your Pumpkin French Toast Sticks by adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the toaster or oven for a quick and easy breakfast on busy mornings.

Conclusion:

Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are the epitome of autumn comfort food, combining the beloved flavors of pumpkin spice with the classic appeal of French toast. Whether enjoyed on a leisurely weekend morning or as a special treat during the week, these delightful sticks are sure to warm both hearts and bellies. So, embrace the season and treat yourself to a plateful of Pumpkin French Toast Sticks for a breakfast that captures the essence of fall.

Here are five frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Pumpkin French Toast Sticks:

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin without any added sugars or spices.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can use different types of bread such as challah or brioche for a richer flavor. Additionally, feel free to adjust the spices according to your liking.

Can I make Pumpkin French Toast Sticks ahead of time?

While these French toast sticks are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply allow them to cool completely after cooking, then store them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, reheat them in the toaster or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?

Yes, you can freeze Pumpkin French Toast Sticks for longer storage. After cooking, let them cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. To reheat, simply place them in the toaster or oven straight from the freezer until heated through.

What are some serving suggestions for Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?

These French toast sticks are delicious on their own, but you can enhance them with a variety of toppings. Serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also pair them with fresh fruit such as sliced bananas or berries for a nutritious twist. Additionally, a side of crispy bacon or sausage makes for a satisfying breakfast combo.