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Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Casserole

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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Step 1: Preheat 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.