Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe

If you’re dreaming of the ultimate cozy breakfast, you’ve got to try this Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that just screams fall comfort but honestly, I make it whenever I want to impress friends or treat my family to something special on the weekend. The pumpkin custard keeps the bread unbelievably moist, while that luscious cream cheese layer adds a tangy, dreamy surprise in every bite.

I absolutely love how this bake works both as a make-ahead dish for busy mornings and a festive brunch centerpiece. Once I discovered that perfect blend of spices and the crunchy pecan topping, my whole crew goes crazy for it! If you’re after a breakfast that tastes fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull off, this Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe might just become your go-to for holiday mornings or cozy get-togethers.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe calls for ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component, from the creamy filling to the crunchy topping, plays a key role in the final dish.

• Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for smooth mixing without lumps.
• Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese filling perfectly without graininess.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note both in the filling and custard.
• Butter (melted): Essential to coat the pecans and enrich the custard mix.
• Chopped Pecans: Toast them lightly beforehand if you want extra crunch and depth.
• Brown Sugar: Packed for the topping to give a caramelized sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon & Pumpkin Spice: These spices define the fall flavor you crave.
• Eggs: The base of the custard, helping everything set nicely.
• Milk & Sweetened Condensed Milk: Combining these gives the custard its richness and slight sweetness.
• Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best consistency and flavor.
• Brioche or Challah Bread: Choose day-old bread sliced thickly so it soaks up the custard but holds together well.

Variations

I love mixing things up with this Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. You can easily swap ingredients or tweak toppings for fun twists!

• Dairy-Free Option: I’ve swapped cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and used almond milk for the custard with great results.
• Nut-Free Topping: Replace pecans with toasted oats or seeds if nuts aren’t your thing or for allergy-friendly guests.
• Spice Level: Sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or extra pumpkin spice to deepen the autumn flavors.
• Sweetness Adjustment: If you want it less sweet, reduce the brown sugar in the topping or skip the powdered sugar dusting at the end.

How to Make Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Start by beating the cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s perfectly creamy—no lumps here. Then add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and luscious. I like to set this aside but keep it covered so it stays fresh while I prep the rest.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Topping

Next, melt your butter and toss in the chopped pecans until every nut is coated. Stir in the brown sugar and just a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. This mixture will get a wonderfully caramelized crunch once baked—one of my favorite parts!

Step 3: Whisk Together the Pumpkin Custard

In a large bowl, whisk eggs with cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and vanilla. Stir in the milk, pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, and melted butter, mixing everything until silky smooth. This custard is the magic that soaks into the bread, giving flavor and moisture without sogginess.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Lightly spray your 9×13 baking dish, then soak each slice of your brioche or challah bread in the pumpkin custard. Lay a layer of soaked bread on the bottom of the pan. Spread that gorgeous cream cheese filling over the bread, then add another layer of soaked bread on top. Finish by sprinkling the pecan topping evenly over the whole thing.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. I usually keep an eye on it around 35 minutes to avoid over-baking, which can dry it out. Once done, let it cool a bit before serving—it helps everything set just right.

How to Serve Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe

Garnishes

I love dusting the finished bake lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy look, and a good drizzle of pure maple syrup makes it even more indulgent. A handful of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can add a fresh, bright contrast that I find irresistible.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or sausage links for a savory counterpoint. If you want to keep things vegetarian, a fresh fruit salad or a cup of spiced apple cider will complete the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday brunches, I like to bake this in mini casserole dishes for individual servings — it feels special and prevents any fighting over the best piece! You could also top each portion with a pecan half and a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

My family often has leftovers, and I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The bake stays moist and flavorful, though I recommend bringing it to room temperature before reheating.

Freezing

I’ve frozen portions wrapped tightly in foil and placed in freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge. This recipe freezes surprisingly well without losing its amazing texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore that fresh-from-the-oven taste and texture. I usually add a splash of maple syrup after reheating to freshen it up.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

When I first tried making this Pumpkin French Toast Bake with Cream Cheese Filling and Pecan Topping Recipe, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so rich and decadent. It’s become a family favorite breakfast that’s as festive as it is comforting, perfect for any special occasion or a weekend treat. I hope you’ll love it as much as I do — it’s one of those recipes that beautifully blends cozy flavors with ease, making your mornings feel a little more magical.

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