Protein Pumpkin French Toast Bake (Printable version)

Warm, spiced pumpkin French toast casserole featuring extra protein in a cozy, fluffy bake perfect for mornings.

# What you need:

→ Bread Base

01 - 8 cups whole grain or brioche bread, cubed
02 - Nonstick cooking spray or butter, for greasing

→ Wet Mixture

03 - 6 large eggs
04 - 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
05 - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
06 - 1/3 cup vanilla protein powder, whey or plant-based
07 - 1/4 cup maple syrup
08 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Spices & Flavorings

09 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Topping

14 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
15 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
16 - Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

# Steps to follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
02 - Distribute bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, spices, and salt until smooth and combined.
04 - Pour the wet mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down gently to ensure thorough soaking.
05 - In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the casserole. Add nuts if desired.
06 - Let stand for at least 10 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for enhanced texture.
07 - Bake for 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
08 - Cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally garnished with maple syrup or Greek yogurt.

# Expert tips:

01 -
  • High protein to keep you satisfied all morning
  • Perfect for meal prep or feeding a group
  • Can be prepped the night before to save time
  • Features fall spices and pumpkin flavor that feels cozy
  • Adaptable dairy free and gluten free options
02 -
  • Each serving is high in both protein and satisfaction
  • Freezable and reheats well for busy schedules
  • Works with gluten free bread or non dairy milk
03 -
  • Choose a protein powder you would enjoy drinking on its own since its flavor really comes through
  • Do not skip letting the bread soak Even ten minutes makes a big difference for creamy insides
  • Keep an eye on the casserole in the oven Cover loosely with foil at the end if the top gets too brown before the center is cooked through

Return