The air is crisp, leaves are turning golden, and the scent of cinnamon and spice fills the kitchen – it must be fall! And what better way to celebrate this magical season than with a breakfast that truly embodies the autumnal spirit? This Vegan Pumpkin French Toast recipe has become a beloved weekend tradition in our home. Even my pickiest eaters, usually skeptical of anything “vegan,” devour it with gusto. The first time I made it, the aroma alone was enough to draw everyone to the kitchen, their faces lighting up with anticipation. The taste? Pure fall bliss! Each bite is a delightful combination of cozy spices, sweet pumpkin, and perfectly toasted bread, creating a texture that’s both moist and satisfying. Paired with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of vegan butter, it’s a breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome, a perfect way to start a chilly morning or enjoy a leisurely weekend brunch. Trust me, this isn’t just French toast; it’s fall on a plate, ready to warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients

To create this autumnal breakfast delight, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture that makes this Vegan Pumpkin French Toast so irresistible. Let’s delve into each ingredient to understand its contribution to this recipe:

1 cup unsweetened soy milk: Soy milk forms the creamy base of our vegan custard. Its neutral flavor allows the pumpkin and spices to shine through, while its protein content contributes to a richer texture compared to some other plant-based milks. However, feel free to experiment with other unsweetened plant-based milks like almond milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. Almond milk will provide a lighter flavor, while oat milk will lend an even creamier consistency. Cashew milk is another excellent option for its rich and subtly sweet taste. Just ensure you’re using unsweetened varieties to control the overall sweetness of the French toast. For those with soy sensitivities, these alternatives work beautifully.
1/2 cup pumpkin purée: This is the star of the show! Make sure you are using pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin purée is simply cooked and mashed pumpkin, while pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, which would throw off the balance of our recipe. The pumpkin purée provides that signature fall flavor, a beautiful orange hue, and a delightful moistness to the French toast. It’s packed with nutrients and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spices perfectly. For the best flavor, use 100% pure pumpkin purée. You can even make your own from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious, roasting pie pumpkins and then pureeing the flesh.
1/4 cup cornstarch: Cornstarch is the secret ingredient that helps create a luscious, custard-like texture in our vegan French toast batter. It acts as a thickening agent, binding the liquid ingredients together and giving the batter a coating consistency that adheres beautifully to the bread. This ensures that the French toast is moist on the inside and develops a lovely golden crust on the outside. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch, using the same amount. These are also excellent gluten-free alternatives that will provide similar thickening properties.
2 tablespoons packed brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor that enhances the autumnal warmth of the pumpkin and spices. The “packed” measurement is important here – gently press the brown sugar into your measuring spoon to ensure you have the correct amount. You can use either light or dark brown sugar, with dark brown sugar providing a richer, more pronounced molasses flavor. For those looking for alternative sweeteners, maple syrup or coconut sugar can be used. If using maple syrup, start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste, keeping in mind it will add liquid to the batter. Coconut sugar will provide a slightly less sweet and more caramel-like flavor.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Vanilla extract elevates the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of warmth and complexity that complements the pumpkin and spices. Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor; imitation vanilla extract often has a less nuanced and sometimes artificial taste. If you want to take the vanilla flavor to the next level, consider using vanilla bean paste or scraping the seeds from a vanilla bean. Vanilla bean paste offers a more intense vanilla flavor and adds beautiful specks of vanilla bean to the French toast.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon is an essential fall spice, and it’s a key player in our pumpkin French toast. It provides a warm, sweet, and slightly woody flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin. Use fresh ground cinnamon for the most vibrant flavor. For an even deeper cinnamon flavor, you can use Ceylon cinnamon (also known as “true cinnamon”), which has a more delicate and nuanced taste compared to the more common Cassia cinnamon.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a warm, nutty, and slightly pungent note that enhances the complexity of the spice blend. A little nutmeg goes a long way, so a quarter teaspoon is just the right amount to add depth without overpowering the other flavors. Freshly grated nutmeg is always superior in flavor to pre-ground nutmeg. If you have whole nutmeg, consider grating it fresh right before adding it to the batter for the most aromatic and flavorful results.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Ginger provides a warm, slightly spicy, and zesty counterpoint to the sweetness of the pumpkin and brown sugar. It adds a subtle kick that balances the other spices and prevents the French toast from being overly sweet. Like nutmeg, freshly grated ginger offers a more vibrant and pungent flavor compared to ground ginger. If you’re a fan of ginger, you can even increase the amount slightly to suit your taste.
8-9 pieces thick bread, such as Texas toast or sourdough*: The bread is the foundation of our French toast, and choosing the right type is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Thick slices of bread are key, as they can soak up the custard batter without becoming soggy and will hold their shape during cooking. Texas toast or sourdough are excellent choices. Texas toast is typically thick-cut and slightly sweet, while sourdough provides a lovely tang that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pumpkin batter. Other great options include brioche, challah, or even day-old French bread. Day-old bread is actually ideal for French toast, as it’s slightly drier and absorbs the batter even better. If you are gluten-free, use your favorite gluten-free bread, ensuring it’s a sturdy, thick-sliced variety.
Vegan butter, for the pan: Vegan butter is used to grease the pan and create that golden-brown, slightly crispy exterior on the French toast. It adds a rich buttery flavor and prevents the French toast from sticking to the pan. There are many excellent vegan butter options available, made from plant-based oils like coconut oil, shea butter, and sunflower oil. Choose a vegan butter that you enjoy the flavor of. Alternatively, coconut oil can also be used for cooking the French toast. It imparts a subtle coconut flavor, which can be a nice complement to the pumpkin and spices.

Instructions

Making this Vegan Pumpkin French Toast is incredibly simple and quick, perfect for busy mornings or when you need a comforting breakfast in a hurry. Follow these easy step-by-step instructions to create your own fall-flavored breakfast masterpiece:

Prepare the Batter: In a shallow bowl that is wide enough to comfortably fit a slice of bread, whisk together the unsweetened soy milk, pumpkin purée, cornstarch, packed brown sugar, pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. Whisk vigorously until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth and homogenous. Ensure there are no lumps of cornstarch remaining. A smooth batter is essential for even coating and cooking of the bread. The shallow bowl allows for easy dipping of the bread slices.
Heat the Pan and Melt Butter: Place a large non-stick pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add a tablespoon or so of vegan butter (or coconut oil) to the pan. Let the butter melt completely and evenly coat the bottom of the pan. The melted butter will prevent sticking and contribute to the golden-brown crust. The heat should be medium-high to ensure the French toast cooks quickly and develops a nice color without burning. If the pan starts to smoke, reduce the heat slightly.
Dip and Cook the Bread: Just before you start dipping the bread, give the batter one final whisk to ensure it’s still well combined. This is important as the cornstarch can settle slightly at the bottom. Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin batter, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Allow the bread to soak in the batter for a few seconds on each side, but don’t oversoak it, or it may become soggy. Carefully place the batter-coated bread slices into the hot pan, leaving enough space between them so they cook evenly. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your bread and the heat of your pan. Keep an eye on the French toast and adjust the cooking time as needed. If the pan becomes dry or the butter is absorbed, add a little more vegan butter to the pan between batches of French toast to maintain that golden-brown crust and prevent sticking.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the Vegan Pumpkin French Toast is cooked to golden-brown perfection, remove it from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and delicious. Garnish with your favorite toppings. Classic options include a pat of vegan butter and a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. For an extra touch of sweetness, dust with powdered sugar. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a dollop of vegan whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for texture and flavor. Other serving suggestions are detailed in the “How to Serve” section below. Enjoy your warm, cozy, and flavorful Vegan Pumpkin French Toast!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. This is an approximate calculation for one serving.)

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 350-450 calories per serving

This estimate is based on using unsweetened soy milk, brown sugar, and vegan butter. The calorie count will vary depending on the type of bread used, the specific vegan butter, and the toppings added. For example, using Texas toast will likely result in a higher calorie count than using a lighter sourdough. Adding toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, and pecans will also significantly increase the calorie count.

To get a more precise nutritional breakdown, you can use online nutrition calculators or apps that allow you to input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. However, this estimated range provides a general idea of the nutritional content per serving of this delicious Vegan Pumpkin French Toast. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

Preparation Time

This recipe is a winner for its speed and simplicity! From start to finish, you can have a plate of warm, delicious Vegan Pumpkin French Toast in just minutes:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

The quick prep time involves simply whisking together the batter ingredients. The cook time is equally fast, with each batch of French toast cooking in just a few minutes per side. This makes it an ideal breakfast or brunch option for busy weekdays or when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The minimal preparation and cooking time contribute to the overall appeal and convenience of this delightful fall recipe.

How to Serve

Vegan Pumpkin French Toast is delicious on its own, but the right toppings can elevate it to a truly decadent and memorable breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance the flavors and textures:

Classic Vegan Butter and Maple Syrup: This is the quintessential French toast pairing and for good reason! A pat of melting vegan butter adds richness and a savory counterpoint to the sweetness, while pure maple syrup provides a natural sweetness and a beautiful amber hue. Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor.
Powdered Sugar Dusting: For a simple touch of elegance and extra sweetness, dust the warm French toast with a generous sprinkle of powdered sugar. The powdered sugar melts slightly into the warm surface, creating a delicate sweetness and a visually appealing finish.
Vegan Whipped Cream: Indulge in a cloud of creamy vegan whipped cream! It adds a luxurious texture and a touch of sweetness that complements the pumpkin spice flavors beautifully. You can find pre-made vegan whipped cream in most grocery stores, or you can easily make your own using coconut cream or aquafaba.
Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor by sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the French toast. Toasted nuts will enhance their flavor and aroma even further. The nutty notes pair wonderfully with the pumpkin and spices, adding another layer of complexity.
Fresh Fruit: Balance the richness of the French toast with a side of fresh fruit. Berries like blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries add a burst of freshness and tartness. Sliced bananas or peaches also complement the flavors nicely. A fruit compote or sautéed apples with cinnamon would also be delicious additions.
Caramel Sauce or Date Syrup: For an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence, drizzle caramel sauce or date syrup over the French toast. Caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery sweetness, while date syrup provides a natural sweetness with a hint of caramel and a deeper flavor profile.
Sprinkle of Cinnamon or Nutmeg: Enhance the aromatic spices by adding an extra sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top just before serving. This intensifies the warm, fall spice flavors and adds a beautiful finishing touch.
Vegan Chocolate Chips or Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, add a sprinkle of vegan chocolate chips or a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce. The combination of pumpkin, spices, and chocolate is surprisingly delicious and adds a decadent twist to the classic French toast.

Additional Tips for Perfect Vegan Pumpkin French Toast

To ensure your Vegan Pumpkin French Toast turns out perfectly every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

Don’t Oversoak the Bread: While you want the bread to absorb the delicious pumpkin batter, be careful not to oversoak it. Soaking for too long can result in soggy French toast that falls apart during cooking. Dip each side of the bread for just a few seconds, allowing it to get coated but not saturated. Thick slices of bread are less likely to become soggy than thinner slices.
Adjust Spices to Your Taste: The spice amounts in this recipe are a guideline, but feel free to adjust them to your personal preference. If you love cinnamon, add a little extra. If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, increase the ginger. You can also add other warming spices like cloves, allspice, or cardamom for a more complex spice blend. Taste the batter before dipping the bread and adjust the spices as needed to create your perfect fall flavor profile.
Use Slightly Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, use slightly day-old bread. Slightly stale bread is drier and will absorb the batter better without becoming overly soggy. If you only have fresh bread, you can lightly toast it in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) for a few minutes to dry it out slightly before dipping it in the batter.
Make the Batter Ahead of Time: The pumpkin French toast batter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This is a great time-saving tip if you want to prep breakfast in advance. Just be sure to whisk the batter again before using it, as the cornstarch may settle slightly. Having the batter ready makes for an even quicker and easier breakfast on busy mornings.
Double or Triple the Batch: This recipe is easily scalable. If you are serving a larger crowd or want to meal prep for the week, feel free to double or triple the batch. Simply multiply all the ingredient quantities accordingly. Cook the French toast in batches as needed, keeping the cooked French toast warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) until ready to serve.

FAQ Section: Ingredients

Here are some frequently asked questions specifically related to the ingredients in this Vegan Pumpkin French Toast recipe:

Q1: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?

A: No, it is strongly recommended to use pumpkin purée and not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, containing added sugar and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Using pumpkin pie filling would make the French toast batter too sweet and potentially overpower the desired spice balance of this recipe. Pumpkin purée, on the other hand, is simply cooked and mashed pumpkin with no added ingredients, allowing you to control the sweetness and spice levels precisely.

Q2: Can I use a different type of plant-based milk besides soy milk?

A: Yes, absolutely! You can substitute soy milk with other unsweetened plant-based milks like almond milk, oat milk, cashew milk, or even coconut milk (the kind from a carton, not canned coconut milk). Each milk will impart a slightly different flavor and texture. Almond milk will result in a lighter flavor and slightly thinner batter. Oat milk will provide a creamier texture and a subtle oat-y sweetness. Cashew milk is also very creamy and slightly sweet. Coconut milk (carton variety) will add a subtle coconut flavor. Choose the plant-based milk that you prefer and that best suits your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make this Vegan Pumpkin French Toast gluten-free by making a few simple substitutions. The key is to use gluten-free bread. There are many excellent gluten-free bread options available, including gluten-free Texas toast or sourdough-style bread. Ensure that the gluten-free bread you choose is thick-sliced and sturdy enough to hold up when dipped in the batter. Double-check the labels of all your ingredients, especially the vegan butter, to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have a severe gluten allergy or intolerance. All the other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Q4: Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

A: Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners to brown sugar. Maple syrup, coconut sugar, agave nectar, or even granulated sugar can be used. If using maple syrup or agave nectar, start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste, keeping in mind that these liquid sweeteners will add a bit more moisture to the batter. Coconut sugar will provide a slightly less sweet and more caramel-like flavor, similar to brown sugar. Granulated sugar will work, but brown sugar adds a subtle molasses note that complements the pumpkin and spices particularly well. Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference, tasting the batter before dipping the bread to ensure it’s sweet enough for your liking.

Q5: Can I omit any of the spices if I don’t like them?

A: While the combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates the classic pumpkin spice flavor profile, you can certainly adjust or omit spices based on your preferences. If you are not a fan of nutmeg or ginger, you can reduce or eliminate them. However, it’s generally recommended to keep at least the cinnamon, as it is a key component of the warm, autumnal flavor. If you want to simplify the spice blend, you can just use cinnamon and perhaps a pinch of nutmeg. Experiment to find the spice combination that you enjoy most! You could also add other spices like cloves, allspice, or cardamom for a different twist on the flavor profile.