Pumpkin Toast is a cozy fall twist on avocado toast. It’s simple to prepare and versatile—try sweet or savory toppings for breakfast, snacks, or party appetizers.
With the first day of fall approaching, I wanted to explore new ways to enjoy pumpkin beyond pies and lattes. Pumpkin toast is an easy, seasonal alternative to avocado toast: creamy, spiced pumpkin spread on toasted bread, finished with whatever topping fits your mood. It’s quick to make, scales easily for a crowd, and works well as breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or an elegant appetizer.
If avocados are out of season or you’re craving something warm and seasonal, pumpkin toast delivers autumn flavor in minutes. Below you’ll find the basic recipe plus seven topping ideas—some sweet, some savory—that showcase how flexible this simple base can be.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf sourdough bread (about 15 slices)
- 1 can (16 ounces) pumpkin puree
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
Toast slices of sourdough to your preferred crispness. In a mixing bowl, stir together the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sea salt until well combined. Spread a generous layer of the spiced pumpkin mixture over each slice of toast, then finish with your chosen toppings.
Seven topping ideas to try:
- Apple slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce
- Mixed with cream cheese: fold a little softened cream cheese into the pumpkin before spreading for a tangy, creamy base
- A simple drizzle of pure maple syrup
- Fresh pomegranate seeds for a tart, jewel-like pop
- Dried cranberries and candied pecans for chewy-sweet texture
- Melted brie with sliced pears and honey: top with brie, broil until it melts, then add pears and a light honey drizzle
- Ricotta with fried sage: dollop ricotta, then top with sage quickly crisped in olive oil
The melted brie with sliced pears and honey was my favorite—rich, creamy brie balances the spiced pumpkin, and the pear adds a fresh, subtle sweetness. This combination works beautifully as a warm appetizer for fall gatherings and holiday parties.
Other topping ideas to experiment with: toasted seeds for crunch, a sprinkle of toasted oats or granola for breakfast, lemon zest for brightness, or a pinch of flaky sea salt with olive oil for a minimalist savory option. Pumpkin pairs especially well with warm spices, nuts, soft cheeses, and tart fruits.
Recipe
Pumpkin Toast
Pumpkin Toast is a simple, seasonal alternative to avocado toast. Prepare a spiced pumpkin spread and top with sweet or savory ingredients to suit breakfast, snacks, or entertaining.
- Servings: about 15 slices
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Author: Whitney Bond
Instructions
- Toast sourdough slices to desired crispness.
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and sea salt until smooth and evenly spiced.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture onto each piece of toast.
- Add your preferred toppings from the list above. For melted brie, place brie on top of the pumpkin-topped toast and broil for 2–3 minutes until melted, then add pear slices and drizzle honey. For fried sage, crisp sage leaves in a little olive oil and place over ricotta.
Notes
- Topping choices will change the nutrition profile; the base pumpkin spread nutrition excludes toppings.
- Use canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for best results.
Nutrition Facts (per slice, base spread only)
Calories: 98 kcal (5%) • Carbohydrates: 20 g (7%) • Protein: 4 g (8%) • Fat: 1 g (2%) • Fiber: 2 g (8%) • Vitamin A: 4706 IU (94%)
Have your own favorite pumpkin toast topping? Try a few combinations and pick a favorite for your next autumn brunch or cozy weekend breakfast.