Easy Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

This pumpkin spice breakfast casserole is a cozy, fall-inspired dish that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and baked pumpkin. Soft, custardy, and full of seasonal flavor, it’s perfect for weekend brunch, Thanksgiving morning, or any chilly autumn day. Made with simple ingredients like bread, pumpkin puree, and eggs, this casserole is both comforting and incredibly easy to prepare.

What is Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole?

A pumpkin spice breakfast casserole is a baked custard-style dish that combines cubed bread with a pumpkin-egg mixture flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It’s similar to French toast casserole but with a pumpkin pie twist—sweet, spiced, and ideal for make-ahead breakfasts or special holiday gatherings.

Other Breakfast Casserole Recipes

• Overnight French Toast Casserole
• Overnight Egg and Cheese Casserole
• Blueberry Cream Cheese Breakfast Casserole
• Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Reasons to Try Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

• Perfect fall flavor – A blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg brings seasonal warmth.
• Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients and no special equipment required.
• Make-ahead friendly – Assemble it the night before for a stress-free morning.
• Family favorite – Loved by both kids and adults.
• Versatile dish – Works as breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

• 6 cups cubed brioche, challah, or French bread (day-old preferred)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a creamier texture)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or 1 tsp cinnamon + ½ tsp nutmeg + ½ tsp cloves)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted (for greasing and drizzling)
• Optional toppings: chopped pecans, walnuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar

Instructions to Prepare Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.

Step 2: Prepare the bread base

Cut the bread into cubes and arrange evenly in the greased baking dish. If your bread is very fresh, toast the cubes lightly in the oven for 5 minutes to help them absorb the custard better.

Step 3: Make the pumpkin custard

In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, vanilla, and salt until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure all pieces are coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) to absorb the custard.

Step 5: Add toppings

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top if desired, and drizzle with a little melted butter for extra flavor.

Step 6: Bake casserole

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set but slightly soft.

Step 7: Rest and serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup for the perfect finish.

What Goes Well With Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

• Maple syrup or honey – Complements the warm spice flavor.
• Vanilla yogurt or whipped cream – Adds a creamy, cool contrast.
• Fresh fruit salad – Brightens up the meal.
• Scrambled eggs or bacon – Balances the sweetness with savory sides.
• Hot coffee or chai latte – Enhances the cozy fall flavors.

Key Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

• Use day-old bread – Helps absorb the pumpkin custard evenly.
• Don’t overbake – The center should be set but still moist.
• Rest before slicing – Allows the custard to firm up perfectly.
• Add nuts for crunch – Pecans or walnuts provide texture and flavor.
• Make it ahead – Chill overnight to let the flavors deepen.
• Serve warm – The aroma and flavor are best right out of the oven.

Creative Variations of Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

• Cream cheese swirl – Add dollops of softened cream cheese before baking.
• Chocolate chip version – Stir in mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Apple-pumpkin combo – Layer in sliced apples for extra texture.
• Gluten-free version – Use gluten-free bread cubes instead.
• Healthier option – Substitute almond milk and reduce sugar slightly.

Storage Guidelines for Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

• Refrigerate leftovers – Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Freeze portions – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Cool before storing – Keeps the texture firm and prevents condensation.
• Label before freezing – Helps track freshness.

Reheating Tips for Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

• Oven method – Warm at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave option – Heat individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
• From frozen – Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until hot.

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: ~340
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 280mg

FAQs

Can I make pumpkin spice breakfast casserole the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake as directed, adding about 5–10 minutes to the baking time since it starts cold.

How do you keep pumpkin breakfast casserole from being soggy?

Use day-old or lightly toasted bread so it absorbs the pumpkin custard without turning mushy. Also, avoid overmixing the batter and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set properly.

What type of bread works best for a pumpkin spice breakfast casserole?

Brioche or challah bread works best because they are soft yet sturdy enough to hold the custard. French bread also works well for a firmer texture.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, which can make the casserole too sweet and overly spiced. Always use pure pumpkin puree for the right flavor and consistency.

Final Words

This easy pumpkin spice breakfast casserole is everything you love about fall baked into one dish—warm, fragrant, and comforting. It’s simple to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for sharing around the breakfast table. Serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, and enjoy the taste of autumn in every bite.

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