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To make the Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole, gather these key ingredients: - 1 loaf of brioche bread, cubed into bite-sized pieces - 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree - 4 large eggs - 2 cups milk (whole or almond) - 3/4 cup packed brown sugar - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract - 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - A pinch of salt You can enhance your casserole with these optional ingredients: - 1 cup chopped pecans for a nice crunch - Maple syrup for serving - Whipped cream for garnish If you need to swap some ingredients, here are some easy ideas: - Use challah or whole wheat bread instead of brioche for a different taste. - Replace whole milk with oat milk for a dairy-free option. - Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower glycemic index. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key. While the oven heats, take a 9x13 inch baking dish. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray. This keeps the casserole from sticking. In a large bowl, combine the pure pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon. Add a pinch of salt. Whisk everything until smooth. This mixture will be the base for your casserole. Next, take your cubed brioche bread. Carefully add it to the pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the bread in. Make sure each piece is coated well. If you like nuts, fold in the chopped pecans now. Now, pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out with the spatula for an even layer. This helps it cook evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This soaking time is important. It allows the bread to soak up all the yummy flavors. After soaking, take off the foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the center to be set. When it's done baking, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to cut. Slice it into squares and serve warm. Drizzle with maple syrup and add whipped cream for a treat. For the best mix, start with a large bowl. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and brown sugar. Use a whisk to blend the mixture until it is smooth. This step is key. It helps all the flavors combine well. When you add the bread, be gentle. Use a spatula to fold in the bread cubes. This helps each piece get coated without breaking. To keep your bread from getting soggy, use fresh brioche. Stale bread works, but fresh gives a better texture. Make sure to soak the bread only for 15 minutes. This gives it time to absorb flavor without getting too wet. If you want, you can also toast the bread cubes lightly before adding them to the mixture. This adds a nice crunch. For a lovely presentation, serve the casserole warm. Drizzle maple syrup over each piece. Add a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon for color. If you like nuts, sprinkle chopped pecans on each plate. This makes it look fancy and adds a nice crunch. {{image_4}} If you want a nut-free version, just skip the pecans. You can replace them with seeds, like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. These seeds add crunch without the nuts. They will not change the taste much, and they keep your dish safe for those with nut allergies. To boost flavor, consider adding a splash of maple extract or a bit of nutmeg. You can also try adding orange zest for a fresh twist. Each of these will add depth to your pumpkin spice mix. Just a little goes a long way, so start small and taste as you go. Adding fruits makes this casserole even more tasty. You can fold in diced apples or pears right before baking. Berries, like blueberries or raspberries, can also add great flavor. They bring a nice sweetness that pairs well with pumpkin. Just remember to adjust your baking time if you add a lot of fruit. To keep your pumpkin spice French toast casserole fresh, store it in an airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature first. Then, place the casserole in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you have extra, slice the casserole before storing. This makes it easy to grab a piece later. When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions. Use a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 1 to 2 minutes. Check that it's hot all the way through. You can freeze this casserole for later. First, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned earlier when you're ready to enjoy it again. To make it ahead, mix the batter and cubed bread the night before. Pour it into the baking dish, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. This way, the bread can soak up the pumpkin goodness overnight. In the morning, just bake it as directed. This saves you time and gives great flavor. Yes, you can use other types of bread. Challah, sourdough, or even whole wheat bread work well. Each type will bring its own taste and texture. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the mixture without getting too mushy. For toppings, maple syrup is a must. It adds sweetness and flavor. Whipped cream makes it extra special. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon or nuts on top for crunch. Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas also add nice color and taste. You can store leftovers for up to three days in the fridge. Just place them in an airtight container. When you want to eat it, reheat in the microwave or oven. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty. This article covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for making pumpkin spice French toast casserole. I shared options for substitutions and variations to match your taste. You learned how to store leftovers and reheating methods for future enjoyment. In conclusion, this dish is fun to make and perfect for cozy gatherings. Enjoy your cooking and share it with others!

Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole

Indulge in the flavors of fall with this easy Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole! Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this dish combines creamy pumpkin puree, brioche bread, and warm spices for a delicious treat. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll create a stunning casserole that will impress everyone. Click to discover the full recipe and learn how to make this cozy dish that pairs perfectly with maple syrup and whipped cream!
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Ingredients
  

1 loaf of brioche bread, cubed into bite-sized pieces

1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree

4 large eggs

2 cups milk (use whole or almond for preference)

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

1 cup pecans, chopped (optional for added crunch)

Maple syrup, for serving

Whipped cream, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's heating, generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pure pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

      Incorporate the Bread: Carefully add the cubed brioche to the pumpkin mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the bread into the mixture until every piece is evenly coated. If you’re using pecans, fold them in at this point to combine.

        Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the bread and pumpkin mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out with the spatula to ensure an even layer.

          Let it Soak: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the bread to soak up all those delicious flavors.

            Bake to Perfection: After soaking, remove the foil and place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the casserole has set in the middle.

              Cool Down: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, making it easier to slice.

                Serve Delightfully: Cut into squares and serve warm, drizzled with generous amounts of maple syrup. Top with a dollop of whipped cream for a special touch.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 8

                    - Presentation Tips: Consider serving your individual portions on a colorful plate, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few pecans for visual appeal.