Introduction
As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like indulging in the flavors of fall. Pumpkin spice reigns supreme during this season, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious batch of Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bites? These delightful morsels combine the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of pumpkin, all while being perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
These bite-sized treats are not only easy to prepare but also make for a fantastic breakfast or brunch option that can impress both family and friends. Plus, thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy that golden-brown finish without the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional French toast. Whether you’re savoring them on a lazy Sunday morning or serving them up at your next fall gathering, these Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bites are bound to become a seasonal favorite. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the enticing aroma of autumn as we dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 loaf of thick-sliced bread (like brioche or challah)
- Cooking spray or softened butter for greasing
- Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions
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- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined.
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- Cut each slice of thick bread into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 2 inches in size.
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- Gently dip the bread cubes into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the excess batter to drip off.
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- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
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- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or softened butter to prevent sticking.
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- Arrange half of the coated bread cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
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- Air fry the pumpkin spice French toast bites for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking, until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
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- Carefully remove the first batch and set aside, then repeat the process with the remaining bread cubes.
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- Serve the warm bites drizzled with maple syrup for a deliciously cozy breakfast or snack!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Bread: 4 slices of thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah), cut into bite-sized cubes
- Eggs: 2 large eggs
- Milk: 1/2 cup of milk (whole milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- Pumpkin Puree: 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin puree
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 1 teaspoon (or a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and clove)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon (plus additional for serving, if desired)
- Butter or Cooking Spray: For greasing the air fryer basket
Optional toppings:
– Powdered sugar
– Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
– Whipped cream
Baking Process for Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of thick bread (like brioche or challah)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- Cooking spray or melted butter for the air fryer basket
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
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Begin by cutting the loaf of bread into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces). This will ensure that every little piece is perfectly coated in the egg mixture.
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Make the Custard Mixture:
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Ensure there are no lumps. This mixture is what will infuse your bread cubes with that delicious pumpkin spice flavor.
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Soak the Bread:
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Gently add the bread cubes to the pumpkin spice mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to toss the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated in the custard. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes, letting the bread soak up the flavors.
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Preheat the Air Fryer:
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While the bread is soaking, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This allows for even cooking once the French toast bites are added.
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Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
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Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with melted butter to prevent sticking.
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Cook the French Toast Bites:
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the soaked bread cubes into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket; you may need to do this in batches depending on your air fryer size.
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Air fry the bread cubes at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The bites should be golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
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Serve:
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Once cooked, remove the bites from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. You can serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
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Enjoy:
- Dig in while they’re still warm and enjoy the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice that will surely bring a smile to your face!
These Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bites make for an excellent breakfast, brunch, or even a delightful snack any time of the day.
Serving Suggestions
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Top your Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bites with a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup for that classic sweet touch. For an extra twist, consider using flavored syrups like vanilla or bourbon maple.
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Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries—strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries—adding a refreshing and vibrant contrast to the warm, spiced bites. Sliced bananas or apple slices also provide a delicious and nutritious complement.
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Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of homemade or store-bought whipped cream on top for a decadent finish. You can even infuse it with a touch of vanilla or pumpkin pie spice to echo the flavors of the dish.
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Nut Butter: For a protein-packed option, spread some almond butter, peanut butter, or speculoos spread on the warm bites. This not only adds creaminess but also a delightful nuttiness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice.
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Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the finished French toast bites with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance and extra sweetness. It’s a simple tweak that visually elevates your dish!
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Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla, cinnamon, or even pumpkin ice cream. This luxurious treat is perfect for special occasions or cozy weekend brunches.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over the bites for a dessert-like treat. Pairing chocolate with pumpkin spice creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
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Yogurt Parfait: Create a yogurt parfait by serving the French toast bites alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt topped with granola and additional fruits. This adds a creamy texture and complements the bites wonderfully.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create the perfect serving style that suits your taste and occasion!
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bites are the perfect fall treat, combining the beloved flavors of pumpkin spice with the crispy texture that the air fryer delivers. They’re quick to prepare, making them an ideal option for busy mornings or cozy weekend brunches. Easy to customize with your favorite toppings—think maple syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar—these bites are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re indulging during the pumpkin spice season or simply craving a sweet breakfast, these delightful morsels will warm your heart and satisfy your tastebuds. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and enjoy a delightful twist on a classic favorite!
