Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried) Bliss

There’s something incredibly cozy about autumn breakfasts, especially when the smell of warm spices fills the kitchen. That’s why I can’t wait to share my recipe for *Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried).* It’s an awesome twist on a classic that captures all the flavors of fall while keeping things a bit lighter—no frying required! I remember chilly mornings with my nonna, who would whip up delicious, sweet breakfasts that made the whole house feel warm. After a few attempts to recreate that magic without the grease, I nailed a baked version that has those crispy edges and a soft, comforting center. Now, I can enjoy that nostalgic pumpkin spice goodness with my nieces, who adore this healthy take just as much as I do. You’ll want to add these to your family breakfast rotation for sure!

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

To whip up these delightful Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Let’s start with the French toast base:

• 1 loaf of french bread or brioche, cut into 1″ thick slices, then into thirds
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Now, for that delicious cinnamon sugar mixture to give it that sweet crunch:

• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon

These ingredients come together to make a fantastic breakfast that’s perfect for sharing with family on those chilly fall mornings. Enjoy prepping these delightful sticks—they’re worth every minute!

How to Prepare Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

Getting ready to make these delicious Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks is easier than you might think! Let’s dive right into the steps that will have your kitchen smelling like fall in no time.

First, grab your large non-stick skillet and set it over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter and let it melt while you whip up the custard mixture.

In your small rectangular baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Feel free to get a little messy here—it’s all part of the fun! Once combined, it should have a lovely, smooth consistency.

Next, take your bread slices and dip them into the mixture. Make sure to flip them so they soak up that lovely flavor evenly. But don’t let them sit too long; a good dunk and flip will do! Place the soaked bread sticks on your hot skillet and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. The trick here is to keep an eye on them—no one likes burnt toast!

While you’re cooking, mix together the sugar and cinnamon in another small dish; this is your cinnamon sugar mixture to roll your toast sticks in. Once they’re nice and golden, remove the French toast sticks from the skillet and immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar. This step brings all the sweet, spicy magic together!

Serve them hot with a drizzle of maple syrup or some buttery pecan syrup for that extra touch. Trust me, your family will love this breakfast treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)! Here’s why they’re a breakfast must-have:

• Healthier Option: Being baked rather than fried means you’re enjoying a lighter, guilt-free treat without sacrificing flavor!
• Easy to Make: This simple recipe comes together in just under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet, spiced sticks—perfect for sharing and creating memories around the breakfast table.
• Fall Flavors: The pumpkin spice blend wraps you in those cozy autumn vibes, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

Trust me, once you try these with your family, you’ll be adding them to your regular breakfast rotation!

Tips for Success with Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

Getting the perfect Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks is all about the right tips and tricks! Here are some pro insights to ensure your breakfast hits all the right notes:

Choose the Best Bread

For a delightful texture, I recommend using a good quality brioche or challah. These breads soak up the custard beautifully, creating that soft center we all love. If you’re going gluten-free, feel free to swap in your favorite gluten-free bread—just make sure it’s similar in thickness!

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Take your time when cooking. Keep the skillet on medium heat—too high and you might end up with burnt outsides and soggy insides. Golden-brown is the goal! And remember, a light pat of butter in the skillet makes for a lovely crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sticks hot and drizzled with maple syrup or alongside some buttered pecan syrup for that extra touch of decadence! Fresh fruit on the side, like berries or sliced bananas, adds a lovely contrast and brings in some freshness.

With these tips, your Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks will be a hit, guaranteed! Enjoy every bite with your loved ones!

Ingredient Alternatives for Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

Don’t worry if you need to make some substitutions for these Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)—I’ve got you covered! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, just swap out regular bread for gluten-free bread that’s sturdy enough to hold up in the custard. Many grocery stores now offer great gluten-free versions that taste fabulous!

If you’re looking to avoid dairy, try using almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk—both work wonderfully in the custard. For the eggs, you can substitute each one with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken). These alternatives will keep the integrity of the recipe intact, allowing you to enjoy these delicious sticks no matter your dietary needs!

Nutritional Information for Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

Let’s talk nutrition! These Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried) are not just delicious, but they’re also a wholesome breakfast option. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Vitamin A: 500 IU
• Calcium: 150mg
• Iron: 2mg

Remember, the nutritional values may vary based on the ingredient brands you choose and any substitutions you make. But no matter how you slice it, you’ll be enjoying a hearty breakfast that brings together taste and health!

FAQ about Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

Can I make these Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap regular bread for a thick, gluten-free option like a gluten-free brioche or challah. It works just as well and brings that same cozy flavor to your breakfast table!

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftover sticks (which is unlikely, but just in case!), pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave or a toaster oven for a quick breakfast treat!

Can I freeze these Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks?

Yes! They freeze beautifully. Just lay them out on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven from frozen, and they’ll be just like fresh!

What can I serve with these French toast sticks?

The possibilities are endless! Maple syrup is a classic choice, but I love pairing them with some buttery pecan syrup or fresh fruit for that extra touch. You’ll definitely want to try them with a dollop of whipped cream, too!

How many servings does this recipe make?

This delightful recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for sharing with family or friends on those chilly fall mornings!

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

When it comes to enjoying these warm, cozy Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried), the right accompaniments really elevate the experience! A classic drizzle of maple syrup is always a fan favorite, but if you want to add a little something extra, try a homemade buttery pecan syrup—it’s simply divine!

Pairing these sticks with fresh fruit can bring a delightful contrast to the warm spices. Slices of bananas, berries, or even a handful of autumnal apples add a refreshing touch! You could also sprinkle some whipped cream on top for a little indulgence. Whatever you choose, these serving ideas will make your family breakfast unforgettable!

Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips for Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried)

Looking to save some time in the morning chaos? You can easily prepare these Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks (Baked, Not Fried) in advance! Just make the custard mixture and soak your bread slices the night before. Then, pop them in the fridge; when morning comes, simply cook them in the skillet like usual.

If you’re thinking about freezing, here’s my favorite method: bake the sticks, let them cool completely, and then lay them flat in a single layer in the freezer. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and deliciously warm. This way, you can enjoy that cozy fall breakfast anytime you want!