Soft, custardy bread meets spiced pumpkin and a buttery streusel topping—this overnight pumpkin French toast casserole is a dreamy autumn breakfast you can make ahead.
There’s something special about waking up to the scent of pumpkin spice…
Mornings can feel rushed and hectic, but this Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole brings a sense of calm, comfort, and homemade love—even before your first cup of coffee. I first made this dish on a chilly October morning for a family brunch, and it’s been a seasonal favorite ever since. The warm aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and baked pumpkin drifting through the kitchen felt like the hug we all needed.
Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch, prepping a Thanksgiving morning treat, or simply want something delicious without the early effort, this make-ahead breakfast casserole is pure gold.
Key Ingredients
Brioche or Challah Bread
Rich, tender, and slightly sweet, this bread is ideal for soaking up the pumpkin custard without becoming soggy. Day-old bread works best—it holds its shape and texture beautifully.
Pumpkin Purée
The star of the show! It adds moisture, rich color, and that classic earthy-sweet pumpkin flavor. Make sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Eggs
Essential for binding the custard. Eggs create that soft, rich texture as the casserole bakes.
Milk + Heavy Cream
This combo makes the custard extra creamy. Whole milk or a non-dairy alternative can be used if preferred, but cream gives that luscious, indulgent feel.
Maple Syrup
Adds natural sweetness and a warm, deep flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Pumpkin Pie Spice
A cozy blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that brings the fall vibes. You can also make your own blend if desired.
Brown Sugar + Butter (for Streusel)
A classic crumble topping made with brown sugar, butter, and flour adds crunch and caramelized flavor to contrast the soft interior.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
Cube your bread into 1-inch pieces and spread them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Using day-old or slightly dried bread is best—it soaks up the custard without turning mushy.
2. Mix the Pumpkin Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, pumpkin spice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread, gently pressing the bread down so it absorbs the liquid.
3. Chill Overnight
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the custard to fully soak into the bread for maximum flavor and texture.
4. Make the Streusel Topping
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cold butter cubes, and a dash of cinnamon. Use your fingers or a fork to combine until crumbly. Store in the fridge until ready to bake.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the casserole and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
6. Cool Slightly & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. The flavors will settle, and the texture will hold beautifully when served.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. For added flair, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted pecans.
Pair it with hot coffee, spiced apple cider, or a chai latte for a full fall breakfast spread. A side of crispy bacon or breakfast sausage balances the sweetness with savory notes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezing
Cool the casserole completely, wrap tightly in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 325°F oven until hot.
Texture Tip: To keep the streusel crisp, reheat uncovered in the oven rather than the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
This overnight pumpkin French toast casserole is more than a breakfast—it’s a fall ritual. It’s cozy, make-ahead friendly, and packed with comforting flavors that bring people together.
Perfect for holiday mornings or lazy weekends, it’s a dish that says: “You deserve to slow down and savor the season.”
Give it your own twist—try adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a cream cheese drizzle. Let me know your favorite variation in the comments!
Print
Cozy Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A cozy, spiced make-ahead breakfast perfect for fall mornings.
Ingredients
1 (1-pound) loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
6 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup pure maple syrup
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
Streusel Topping:
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp cinnamon
6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
Instructions
Prepare Bread: Place cubed bread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make Custard: Whisk together pumpkin, eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and salt. Pour over bread, press gently to soak. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Make Streusel: Mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter until crumbly. Refrigerate until baking.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle streusel over casserole. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until golden and set.
Cool & Serve: Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with maple syrup or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture.
For dairy-free, swap milk and cream with oat milk and use vegan butter.
Add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 330
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
Keywords: Cozy Overnight Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
FAQ
Can I use another type of bread?
Yes! French bread, sourdough, or even croissants work well. Just make sure it’s a sturdy loaf that can hold up to soaking.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute almond or oat milk and use coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer. Vegan butter can replace the butter in the streusel.
What if I forget to chill overnight?
While overnight soaking gives the best texture, you can let it sit for at least 30–60 minutes if you’re short on time—just press the bread down gently to help it absorb the custard.
Can I add mix-ins?
Yes! Try chopped pecans, dried cranberries, or even a swirl of cream cheese for extra decadence.