Ingredients
Scale
- 8 slices thick-cut Brioche or Challah bread
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix with a spatula or hand mixer until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Lay out four slices of bread and spread a generous layer of the pumpkin mixture onto each. Top with the remaining four slices of bread to create sandwiches. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut each sandwich into four equal squares (bites).
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together to create the coating; set this aside for later.
- Briefly dip each bread bite into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. Do not soak them too long, or they will become soggy and fall apart during cooking. Just a quick submerge on each side is enough.
- Melt the butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the bites in the skillet, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and slightly crisp. Don’t forget to briefly sear the edges as well!
- Immediately after removing the bites from the pan, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they are fully coated. Serve warm while the filling is soft and gooey.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian