Pumpkin French Toast Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 10-12 ounces stale bread, cut into large cubes
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the streusel topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

Optional additions:

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare bread: Cut stale bread into large cubes.
2. Make custard: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin purée, milk, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. Assemble casserole: Spray a 2-quart casserole or 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Place bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Pour custard mixture over bread. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
4. Make streusel topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, pecans, pumpkin pie spice, and butter. Use your fingers to press butter into the mixture until it forms small chunks.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Sprinkle streusel topping over the casserole. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until top is golden brown and egg mixture is set.
6. Serve: Serve warm and enjoy!

Optional additions:

• For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the custard mixture.
• For a richer flavor: Use a combination of heavy cream and milk for the custard.
• For a tangy kick: Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or orange zest to the custard mixture.
• For additional sweetness: Increase the amount of brown sugar in the streusel topping.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Pumpkin French Toast Casserole!