As the air turns crisper and leaves don their fiery hues, I find myself craving comfort that goes beyond the usual breakfast routine. This gluten-free pumpkin French toast offers a surprising way to embrace seasonal flavors while satisfying a craving for something indulgent and wholesome. The scent of pumpkin and warm spices filling the kitchen makes even the gloomiest mornings feel special.
What sets this recipe apart is its thoughtful twist on classic French toast—using almond flour and coconut milk to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing richness. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of nostalgia but want something fresh and inventive for a holiday brunch or a cozy weekend treat. Every bite delivers a harmonious balance of sweetness, spiced pumpkin, and a crispy exterior that’s impossible to resist.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- The aroma of cinnamon and roasted pumpkin is pure autumn magic.
- Its gluten-free nature makes it accessible and inclusive for all dietary needs.
- Using pantry staples, it comes together quickly—no fuss, just flavor.
- The tender, custardy inside complemented by a crisp crust sparks pure joy.
- It brings a cozy, nostalgic feeling with a modern twist that’s hard to beat.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT to preheat the pan—took longer to cook and stuck a little. Fix: Keep it medium heat!
- DUMPED extra pumpkin batter—spilled everywhere. Fix: Use a shallow dish and pour slowly.
- OVER-TURNED the toast—lost its delicate texture. Fix: Flip gently once golden.
- FORGOT to grease the pan—stuck to the surface. Fix: Use a light spray of coconut oil.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When batter is too thick, splash in a splash of almond milk to loosen. Smells sweet and nutty.
- Patch uneven cooking by lowering heat if toast browns too quickly. It’s a crackling delight.
- Switch to a non-stick pan if sticking persists. Saves time and mess.
- When pancake is underdone, shield with foil and finish on low heat. Quietly crackles.
- When short on spices, add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice from the pantry. Warm aroma blooms.
Winter mornings or holiday brunches suddenly become more inviting with this flavorful twist. The warm smells of spices and roasted pumpkin evoke crisp air and cozy sweaters.
This recipe is a reminder that comfort food can be both simple and inventive. It’s perfect for making memories with loved ones or just elevating your own breakfast game. Sometimes, the best moments are around a plate of rich, spiced French toast.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin French Toast
Equipment
- Shallow mixing bowl
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 4 slices gluten-free bread preferably slightly stale for better soaking
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 1/2 cup almond flour for binding and richness
- 3/4 cup coconut milk unsweetened
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree fresh or canned
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional but adds warmth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, almond flour, coconut milk, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Dip each bread slice into the batter, allowing it to soak for about 20 seconds on each side until fully coated but not falling apart.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of coconut oil, waiting until it shimmers and starts to bubble.
- Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the slices gently with a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the second side is equally golden and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked pumpkin French toast to a plate and repeat the process with remaining slices, adding more coconut oil as needed.
- Serve the pumpkin French toast warm, topped with maple syrup, extra pumpkin, or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.
Notes
In the end, this gluten-free pumpkin French toast isn’t just about flavor—it’s about creating an experience. The burst of pumpkin, the comforting warmth of spices, and the crunch on top all come together in a way that’s both nostalgic and exciting. It’s a dessert-style breakfast that fits perfectly into the changing seasons.
Enjoying this dish reminds us that good food is about embracing the moment. Whether it’s a lazy weekend or a festive holiday morning, it’s a treat that makes ordinary mornings feel a little more special and beautifully seasonal.
