Protein Pumpkin French Toast Bake (Printable Version)
Enjoy a fluffy bake with pumpkin, eggs, protein powder, and warm spices. Ideal for breakfast gatherings or meal prep.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Bread Base
01 - 8 cups (approximately 1 loaf) whole grain or brioche bread, cut into cubes
02 - Nonstick spray or unsalted butter, for greasing
→ Wet Mixture
03 - 6 large eggs
04 - 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk or preferred milk
05 - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
06 - 1/3 cup vanilla protein powder, whey or plant-based
07 - 1/4 cup pure 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
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
02 - Distribute the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
03 - Combine eggs, almond milk, pumpkin puree, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, all spices, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until smooth.
04 - Pour the wet mixture over the bread cubes, pressing lightly so all pieces are saturated.
05 - In a small bowl, blend brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole. Add nuts, if desired.
06 - Allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for enhanced texture.
07 - Transfer dish to the oven and bake for 40 minutes, until the center is set and top turns golden brown.
08 - Let cool for 10 minutes after baking. Slice and serve warm, optionally with extra maple syrup or Greek yogurt.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- High in protein for sustained energy
- Ideal for meal prep and family gatherings
02 -
- Bread can be slightly stale for best texture
- To make dairy-free, use plant-based milk and protein powder
03 -
- Use high-protein bread and Greek yogurt topping for extra protein
- Prep the casserole the night before for busy mornings