1-First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get that perfect bake. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, 1/8 teaspoon cloves, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until well mixed. Then, add 4 large eggs and 2 large egg yolks, stirring them in thoroughly.

2-Next, pour in 1 1/2 cups half and half, 1 cup whole milk, 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin, and 1 teaspoon vanilla, combining everything into a smooth custard. Place 1 (16 oz) loaf of hearty crusty French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes, into another large bowl. Evenly pour the custard over the bread, toss gently, and let it rest for 10 minutes so the bread soaks up the flavors.

3-Now, spoon the mixture into a buttered 12×8-inch or 13×9-inch baking dish, pressing the bread cubes lightly to even it out. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until it’s set and golden. Once done, let it cool a bit before serving with optional toppings like salted caramel sauce, 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans, or sweetened whipped cream.