Protein Pumpkin French Toast Bake

This Protein Pumpkin French Toast Bake delivers everything you want in a breakfast casserole cozy flavors of pumpkin spice a punch of protein and the ease of make-ahead prep It has become my go-to for holiday mornings fall weekends or anytime I want a fuss-free start that feels genuinely special

I first created this for an autumn brunch potluck and every guest wanted the recipe It has joined our family's breakfast rotation and even my picky eaters are happy to wake up to it

Ingredients

• Whole grain or brioche bread: The foundation for heartiness and texture Look for bread that is slightly stale for the best soak and bite
• Eggs: These bring structure and a protein boost Farm fresh or large cage free eggs add richness
• Unsweetened almond milk or milk: Silkiness and moisture come from milk Choose almond for dairy free or your favorite kind for richer flavor
• Canned pumpkin puree: Delivers classic pumpkin flavor and makes the bake moist Always use pure pumpkin not pumpkin pie filling
• Vanilla protein powder: Ramps up protein content and lightly sweetens Use high quality whey or plant based types for smoothness
• Maple syrup: Brings gentle sweetness and warmth Go for pure grade A maple for fullest flavor
• Vanilla extract: Amplifies all the warm notes Pure extract makes a difference
• Ground cinnamon nutmeg ginger cloves and salt: Together they create the pumpkin spice backbone Freshly purchased spices are best for boldness
• Brown or coconut sugar for topping: Adds a sweet crispy finish Opt for coconut sugar for an unrefined alternative
• Chopped pecans or walnuts optional: Toasted nuts add crunch and balance plus heart healthy fats

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish to prevent sticking and create easy cleanup I prefer using a bit of butter for extra flavor but nonstick spray works too

Arrange the Bread Cubes:

Cut your whole loaf into even cubes about one inch works well Spread these cubes evenly in the prepared dish so every bite gets soaked in the custard

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl whisk together the eggs almond milk pumpkin puree protein powder maple syrup vanilla extract all spices and the salt Whisk until completely smooth and no clumps of protein powder remain This step is key for texture and flavor

Soak the Bread:

Slowly pour the custard over the bread cubes Make sure to pour evenly over the whole surface Then gently press down with a spatula or clean hands to help the bread absorb the mixture fully Every cube should look moist

Add the Topping:

In a small bowl mix your sugar and cinnamon If adding nuts stir them in Sprinkle this mix evenly over the surface of the casserole The topping creates a sweet fragrant crust

Let it Rest:

Allow the dish to rest for at least ten minutes so the bread absorbs maximum flavor For a true overnight bake cover and refrigerate up to twelve hours This makes mornings simple

Bake:

Place the casserole in the oven Bake for forty minutes until the top turns golden brown and the center feels set If unsure insert a knife in the middle and look for no liquid custard clinging

Cool and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let it cool for ten minutes before slicing This helps everything set and makes serving neat Enjoy warm with extra maple syrup Greek yogurt or fresh fruit for an added touch

Pin It

Pumpkin puree truly makes this dish sing with natural sweetness Every time I use freshly ground nutmeg it reminds me of baking with my grandmother in her cozy kitchen

Storage Tips

After cooling slice and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator They will keep for up to four days To reheat pop slices into the oven at three fifty degrees for about ten minutes or use a microwave in a pinch

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to go gluten free swap the bread with a sturdy gluten free loaf Dairy free options are as simple as using plant based milk and protein The nuts are completely optional but they add a lovely crunch

Serving Suggestions

A dollop of Greek yogurt adds both tartness and extra protein Try topping with fresh berries for a burst of brightness If serving for a crowd place a dish of extra maple syrup at the table

Cultural and Holiday Traditions

French toast casseroles like this have their roots in American brunch culture where easy make ahead meals became popular for celebrations Pumpkin flavor is a fall favorite here and turns standard French toast into something festive

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in diced apples or pears with the pumpkin during late fall Try warming spices like cardamom in winter Brighten it up in spring with lemon zest and berries

Success Stories

Several friends have adapted this for holiday breakfasts and rave about how it keeps everyone satisfied through busy mornings One reader even prepped this for a postpartum meal train and it stayed moist and delicious after freezing

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze after baking cool the casserole completely then wrap in foil and freeze up to three months When ready to eat thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at three fifty degrees until hot through

Pin It

This bake brings bold flavor with minimal fuss and always feels festive Serve warm for the best texture and enjoy the cozy autumn vibes with every bite

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, assemble the bake ahead. Refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning for the best texture and convenience.

→ What bread works best?

Use brioche or whole grain bread. Slightly stale bread absorbs the mixture better, resulting in a fluffier texture.

→ Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Choose plant-based milk and protein powder to enjoy a dairy-free version with similar results.

→ How can I increase the protein content further?

Use high-protein bread and top servings with Greek yogurt for an additional protein boost.

→ What toppings pair well with this bake?

Try extra maple syrup, a dollop of Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flavor.