If you’re dreaming of a cozy brunch that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a chilly morning, the Pumpkin Streusel Brioche French Toast Bake Recipe is about to be your new go-to. Imagine cubes of buttery brioche soaking up a luscious pumpkin-spiced custard, topped with a crunchy, cinnamon-speckled streusel that adds just the right touch of sweetness and texture. This dish is all about combining rich autumn flavors with the pillowy softness of bread, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday mornings, or any weekend when you want something special that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role. From the fluffy brioche that forms the base to the fragrant pumpkin pie spices that bring in those seasonal vibes, this recipe crafts the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The streusel topping adds that irresistible crunch, while the custard mixture keeps everything tender and moist.
- Brioche bread (1 lb, cubed): Day-old bread works best because it soaks up the custard beautifully without becoming mushy.
- Large eggs (8): Provide structure and richness to the custard base.
- 100% pumpkin purée (1 cup): Brings creamy texture and deep autumn flavor.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds moisture and softness.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Enhances the custard’s decadence.
- Dark brown sugar (¼ cup + ½ cup for streusel): Offers deep molasses sweetness, balancing the spices.
- Vanilla extract (1 tbsp + ½ tsp for glaze): Brightens the flavor elements effortlessly.
- Pumpkin pie spice (1 tbsp): A warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that defines the dish.
- Salt (½ tsp): Slightly elevates every flavor.
- Butter (for greasing + ¼ cup cold, cubed for streusel): Adds richness and helps the streusel crisp up perfectly.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): Gives the streusel its crumbly texture.
- Cinnamon (2 tsp for streusel): Intensifies the spice profile in the topping.
- Chopped pecans (½ cup, optional): Adds an earthy crunch and nutty contrast.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Used for a luscious glaze that ties everything together.
- Maple syrup (2 tsp): Gives the glaze a hint of rich sweetness and complexity.
- Heavy cream or milk (1–2 tbsp): Adjusts glaze consistency perfectly.
How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Brioche French Toast Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brioche
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F. If your brioche isn’t already day-old, toast the cubed bread for 10 to 15 minutes. This drying step is absolutely crucial because it helps the bread absorb the custard without turning soggy, giving your dish that ideal tender yet firm texture that sets this recipe apart.
Step 2: Assemble the Base
Next, generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add richness. Place the toasted brioche cubes evenly into the dish, creating a fluffy bed that will soak up all the luscious custard goodness waiting to come.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, pumpkin purée, whole milk, heavy cream, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until everything is smooth and well combined. This custard should be silky and fragrant, a perfect flavor base to soak into the brioche cubes.
Step 4: Combine Custard and Bread
Pour your pumpkin custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece is coated. Gently press the bread down so it absorbs as much liquid as possible. This step promises each bite is moist and infused with that seasonal pumpkin warmth.
Step 5: Chill Overnight or a Minimum of 30 Minutes
Cover your baking dish tightly and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is best. This resting time allows the flavors to deepen and the bread to soak up all the custard magic for a tender, flavorful finish.
Step 6: Prepare Your Streusel Topping
While the custard-soaked bread chills, mix the streusel ingredients in a separate bowl: all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, cold cubed butter, and chopped pecans if using. Combine and toss until the mixture turns crumbly and small buttery clumps form. Chill this until you’re ready to top your casserole.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Raise the oven temperature to 350°F. Sprinkle the chilled streusel evenly over your soaked brioche, then bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the topping crunches beautifully. Your kitchen will fill with irresistible aromas that herald a perfect fall brunch treat.
How to Serve Pumpkin Streusel Brioche French Toast Bake Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, simplicity is key. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm maple syrup complements the pumpkin and spice notes beautifully. Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla yogurt adds creaminess and a cool contrast that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Side Dishes
Pair this bake with fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears to brighten the plate and add refreshing balance to the rich, sweet casserole. Crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage also works wonders here, offering a delightful salty contrast that keeps your taste buds engaged.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve individual portions topped with a pecan half or little toasted pepitas for extra crunch and visual appeal. You might also offer a small pitcher of warm caramel or vanilla sauce on the side for guests to customize their servings. This dish shines when it’s the centerpiece of a cozy brunch table, surrounded by seasonal décor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pumpkin Streusel Brioche French Toast Bake Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to 3 days. The flavors actually tend to meld and deepen, though the streusel topping may soften slightly. Reheat portions gently for best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the bake before or after baking. For best results, assemble and freeze before baking, wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh. If freezing leftovers, wrap portions tightly to prevent freezer burn and consume within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and the streusel topping is crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dish soggy. A toaster oven works wonderfully for single servings, revitalizing the crust beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche?
Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its buttery richness and texture, challah or a sturdy French bread can work well too. Just be sure the bread is day-old or slightly stale to absorb the custard without falling apart.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You can swap out the whole milk and heavy cream for your favorite plant-based milks like oat or almond, and use dairy-free butter for greasing and in the streusel. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
How far in advance can I prepare this bake?
This recipe is fantastic for prepping the night before. In fact, letting it soak overnight improves the flavor and texture. You can also prepare the streusel topping ahead and keep it chilled separately until baking day.
Can I add nuts or fruit inside the custard mixture?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch, and dried cranberries or raisins offer bursts of sweetness. Just fold them gently into the custard before pouring over the bread.
What’s the best way to make the streusel topping extra crunchy?
Using cold butter that you cut into small cubes helps create a crumbly texture when combined with the dry ingredients. Refrigerate the streusel before topping your bake and avoid over-mixing to keep those delightful clumps intact.
Final Thoughts
If you want a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that captures the essence of fall, the Pumpkin Streusel Brioche French Toast Bake Recipe is your golden ticket. It’s comforting, rich, and surprisingly easy to make ahead, so you can spend more time savoring and less time prepping. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a beloved tradition for all your special mornings. Grab your ingredients and get ready to fill your home with the wonderful smells of autumn!
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Pumpkin Streusel Brioche French Toast Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes plus chilling time (minimum 30 minutes to overnight)
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pumpkin Streusel Brioche French Toast Bake is a cozy, sweet breakfast casserole perfect for autumn mornings. Combining soft brioche bread soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard with a buttery pecan streusel topping, it’s an indulgent yet comforting dish that serves 8 to 10 people. The bake is easy to prepare ahead, allowing the flavors to meld overnight before a warm, golden bake that delivers both creamy and crunchy textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Bread Base
- 1 loaf (1 lb) brioche bread, cubed (preferably day-old)
Custard Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup 100% pumpkin purée
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp salt
Streusel Topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tsp maple syrup
- 1–2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Other
- Butter for greasing dish
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat the oven to 300°F. Toast the cubed brioche bread on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes if the bread is not stale. This helps to dry it out and creates the perfect texture for soaking up the custard.
- Grease the Dish and Add Bread: Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Place the toasted brioche cubes evenly in the dish for an even bake.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin purée, whole milk, heavy cream, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the pumpkin custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down with the back of a spatula or your hands to ensure it absorbs the custard fully.
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard deeply for a custardy center.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, cinnamon, cold cubed butter, and chopped pecans (if using) using a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly. Chill the streusel until ready to use.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the casserole from the fridge and evenly sprinkle the chilled streusel topping over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes or until the center is fully set and the topping is golden brown.
- Prepare Glaze (Optional): While baking or once baked, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, heavy cream or milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to drizzle over the French toast bake before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use brioche bread that is at least a day old or slightly toasted to absorb custard without becoming mushy.
- You can prepare this casserole the night before by soaking it in the fridge and baking it the next morning.
- Chopped pecans in the streusel provide texture and a nutty flavor but can be omitted for nut allergies.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and shine when drizzled on top before serving.
- Make sure the center is set and not liquid before removing from the oven to ensure perfect custard consistency.
