Description
This elegant brunch centerpiece features layers of crusty French bread stuffed with a silky-smooth cream cheese filling, all soaked in a spiced pumpkin custard. It is the perfect make-ahead dish that yields a golden, custardy interior with warm autumnal notes. Ideal for family gatherings and celebrations, it delivers a decadent, restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
8 oz package cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dash of salt
4 large eggs
1 cup half and half or evaporated milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
Instructions
Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla, and a dash of salt until smooth and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, half and half, granulated sugar, salt, and spices.
Fold in the pumpkin puree until the mixture is uniform.
Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Spread the cream cheese mixture onto 8 bread slices and top with the remaining 8 slices to form 8 sandwiches.
Arrange sandwiches snugly into the prepared baking dish.
Pour the pumpkin custard mixture evenly over the bread sandwiches.
Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight to allow the bread to hydrate.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Notes
Using day-old bread helps maintain better structure. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling. The overnight soak is recommended for a superior, custard-like texture.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 110mg