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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of baked pumpkin French toast squares wafting through your home. This delightful recipe captures the essence of autumn, blending the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin with the nostalgic familiarity of French toast. Perfect for a cozy family breakfast, a festive holiday brunch, or even as an indulgent dessert, these baked squares promise to envelop you in warmth and satisfaction.

Baked Pumpkin French Toast Squares

Embrace the warmth of fall with cozy baked pumpkin French toast squares. This delightful recipe combines thick-cut brioche or challah with rich pumpkin puree and aromatic spices, creating a heartwarming dish perfect for family breakfasts or festive gatherings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, these squares bake to golden perfection, leaving your kitchen filled with comforting scents. Serve warm with maple syrup, whipped cream, or nuts for a memorable autumn treat that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

1 loaf of thick-cut brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (ensure it is not pumpkin pie filling)

4 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Optional toppings: maple syrup, whipped cream, chopped pecans, or a dusting of powdered sugar

Instructions
 

Preheat & Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with unsalted butter to ensure that the French toast squares do not stick during baking.

    Cube the Bread: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed brioche or challah bread, setting it aside for now to allow it to dry slightly, which will help it absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.

      Make the Custard Mixture: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, packed brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

        Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the prepared custard mixture over the cubed bread. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold the bread cubes into the custard, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Allow the mixture to sit for approximately 15-20 minutes, giving the bread time to soak up the custard.

          Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is a beautiful, golden brown.

            Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to cut into squares. Serve your warm pumpkin French toast squares with an assortment of toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, chopped pecans for a delightful crunch, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

              Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 55 min | Servings: 6-8

                Presentation Tips: When serving, consider arranging the squares on a rustic wooden platter, drizzled with maple syrup and topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture. Adding a few whole pecans around the platter can enhance the autumnal feel!