1-First: spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, tear or cube the French bread and place it evenly in the pan for even absorption. This step sets the base for your baked french toast.

2-Next: in a large bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, 2 1/2 cups milk, 1 cup pumpkin puree, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to let it soak and develop flavors.

3-In another bowl, combine the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the 1/2 cup cold butter pieces and mix with a fork or your hands until it resembles sand with some pea-sized pieces. Cover and refrigerate this streusel topping.

4-Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the French toast from the refrigerator and sprinkle the streusel topping over the top for that extra crunch. Bake for 45-55 minutes until it’s set and golden brown, creating the perfect baked pumpkin french toast with warm spices.

5-Finally, let it cool slightly and serve warm, maybe with a drizzle of maple syrup. This step-by-step guide makes it easy for busy parents or students to nail this fall breakfast every time.