Pumpkin Spiced French Toast Sticks
Introduction
Welcome to the cozy embrace of autumn with a delightful twist on a breakfast classic—Pumpkin Spiced French Toast Sticks! These sticks are a fun and festive way to start your day, capturing the essence of fall with every delectable bite. Picture golden-brown, crunchy exteriors giving way to a soft, pumpkin-infused center, each morsel bursting with warm spices. Whether you enjoy them on a casual family brunch or as an everyday breakfast treat, these toast sticks will surely brighten your mornings! If you’d like to receive this mouthwatering recipe directly to your inbox, don’t forget to subscribe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What’s not to adore about these Pumpkin Spiced French Toast Sticks? First, they bring together all those beloved autumn flavors—think rich pumpkin puree and a medley of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They are easy to whip up on a brisk morning, making them an excellent choice for busy families. Plus, they’re super fun to eat, especially for kids! Dipping them in maple syrup adds the perfect sweet finish, making breakfast feel like a special occasion.
Ingredients
– 8 slices of thick bread (brioche or Texas toast work best)
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons granulated 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 and powdered sugar for serving
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowl
– Whisk
– Large skillet or griddle
– Spatula
– Tongs or fork for flipping
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize your Pumpkin Spiced French Toast Sticks! For a dairy-free option, use almond or soy milk. You can replace pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a subtle twist. Want a nutty flavor? Add a tablespoon of almond or hazelnut extract! Toss in some chocolate chips or chopped pecans for added texture and sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Begin by slicing each piece of thick bread into three equal sticks. Set them aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until everything is well combined. The mixture should be smooth and aromatic!
3. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly coat it with butter or oil.
4. Drench each bread stick in the pumpkin batter, letting any excess drip off to avoid soggy sticks.
5. Carefully place the coated sticks in the preheated pan and cook them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and have a slightly crispy texture.
6. Once cooked, remove from the pan and serve warm. Don’t forget the maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra flair!
Serving Suggestions
These Pumpkin Spiced French Toast Sticks are delightful on their own but pair them with crispy bacon or sausages for a hearty breakfast. A side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or berries, adds a refreshing contrast!
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your skillet is evenly heated before cooking the toast sticks to achieve a uniform golden color.
– For an extra crispy exterior, try toasting the bread slightly before dipping it in the batter—the crunch factor will elevate the dish!
– Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a toaster oven or microwave until warmed through. For an extra crispy texture, you can pop them in the oven for a few minutes.
FAQ Section
– *Can I make this recipe ahead of time?* Yes! Prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just dip and cook the next morning!
– *What type of bread works best?* Thick, airy breads like brioche or Texas toast hold up beautifully and absorb the custard without getting overly soggy.
Conclusion
There you have it! Pumpkin Spiced French Toast Sticks are not just a breakfast treat; they’re a warm hug on a chilly morning. Simple in preparation yet rich in flavor, these sticks capture the essence of fall and make everyone smile. I’d love to see your creations, so don’t hesitate to leave a review, share photos, or tag your delicious results on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximately 200 calories per serving, with a good balance of healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein, making it a wholesome breakfast choice.
Enjoy this scrumptiously seasonal recipe and let the pumpkin-spice love brighten your mornings!
