🎃 Pumpkin Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Bites 🍞
Ingredients:
For the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Filling:
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
3 tablespoons (45g) pure pumpkin puree
1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup
¾ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice blend
For the French Toast Bites:
6 slices thick-cut bread, such as brioche or challah
1 large egg
½ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter or neutral oil, for cooking
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling: In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice. Use a hand mixer or whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. Set aside.
Form the Sandwiches: Lay out three slices of bread. Spread an even layer of the pumpkin cream cheese mixture onto each slice, leaving a small border around the edges. Top each with a second slice of bread to create three closed sandwiches. Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully slice each sandwich into nine uniform bite-sized cubes.
Make the Custard Dip: In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk the egg. Add the milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt, and continue to whisk until the mixture is fully combined and slightly frothy.
Cook the Bites: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the butter and swirl to coat the pan. Working in batches, briefly dip each bread cube into the custard mixture, ensuring all sides are moistened but not saturated. Place the cubes in the hot skillet in a single layer, ensuring they don't touch. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, using tongs to turn them, until all sides are a deep, golden brown and crisp.
Serve: Enjoy the French toast bites immediately while they are warm and crisp on the outside. They are delicious on their own or with an extra drizzle of maple syrup.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 27 bites | Calories: Approximately 35 kcal per bite
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