French Toast with Sourdough Bread

Have you ever taken a bite of French toast and felt like something was missing? Maybe it was too soft, too sweet, or just didn’t have that depth of flavor you were looking for. That’s where sourdough French toast comes in! This breakfast favorite takes everything we love about traditional French toast and gives it a bold, slightly tangy twist that makes every bite unforgettable.

I still remember the first time I tried it. I had some leftover sourdough bread sitting on my counter, and rather than tossing it, I thought, “Why not turn it into something amazing?” One soak in a rich, cinnamon-spiced batter and a quick sear in butter later, and I was hooked! The crispy edges, soft center, and deep flavor made me realize that sourdough French toast is not just an upgrade it’s a game-changer.

In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about making the best sourdough French toast. We’ll cover why sourdough works so well, the best ingredients to use, and step-by-step instructions to ensure your French toast is crispy on the outside and perfectly soft inside. So grab your frying pan and let’s get cooking!

Why Sourdough Bread is Perfect for French Toast

You might be wondering, “Why should I use sourdough instead of regular bread?” Well, let’s break it down.

The Unique Texture and Flavor of Sourdough

Sourdough bread has a slightly chewy texture and a rich, tangy flavor. Unlike soft sandwich bread that can become mushy when soaked in egg mixture, sourdough holds up beautifully. The crisp edges and tender center create the perfect contrast in every bite.

Health Benefits of Sourdough Bread in French Toast

Believe it or not, sourdough is actually healthier than many other breads. Here’s why:

• Easy to Digest: The natural fermentation process breaks down gluten, making it gentler on your stomach.
• Lower Glycemic Index: Sourdough bread doesn’t spike your blood sugar as much as white bread does.
• Rich in Nutrients: It contains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants compared to other breads.

So not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also a better choice for your body!

Comparing Sourdough to Other Bread Choices

Still on the fence? Let’s compare:

As you can see, sourdough brings something truly unique to the table—both in texture and flavor.

Ingredients for the Best Sourdough French Toast

Now that we know why sourdough French toast is the ultimate breakfast choice, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make it.

Choosing the Right Sourdough Bread

Not all sourdough bread is created equal. For the best results, go for:

• Day-old or slightly stale sourdough: This helps it absorb the batter without falling apart.
• Thick slices (about ¾ to 1 inch): Too thin and it gets soggy, too thick and it won’t cook through.
• Artisan-style sourdough: Store-bought is fine, but homemade or bakery-fresh sourdough is even better.

Essential Ingredients for a Rich Batter

Here’s what you’ll need to make your French toast absolutely irresistible:

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

If you want to level up your sourdough French toast, try adding:

• Orange zest: Adds a bright, citrusy kick.
• Brown sugar: Gives a caramelized crust when cooked.
• Almond extract: A little goes a long way for a nutty twist.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sourdough French Toast

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to turn them into something truly special. Making sourdough French toast isn’t just about dunking bread in eggs and frying it there’s an art to it. Follow these steps, and you’ll get perfectly crispy, golden-brown slices with a rich, custardy center every time.

Step 1: Preparing the Bread

The key to a great sourdough French toast starts before you even dip it in the batter. Here’s how to get your bread just right:

• Use slightly stale bread: Fresh sourdough can be too soft, leading to soggy French toast. If your bread is fresh, leave it out overnight or toast it lightly before soaking.
• Slice it thick: Aim for slices that are about ¾ to 1 inch thick. This helps the bread absorb the custard without falling apart.
• Preheat your skillet or griddle: Set it to medium heat and let it warm up while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Making the Perfect Egg Mixture

Now, let’s mix up that rich, flavorful batter that will coat the sourdough and give it that delicious custardy texture.

• Crack 3 large eggs into a wide, shallow bowl. Beating the eggs well ensures an even texture.
• Add ¾ cup of milk or cream. Whole milk works great, but if you want an extra rich French toast, use heavy cream.
• Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This enhances the sweetness and adds a warm, inviting aroma.
• Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. These spices give the French toast a cozy, bakery-style flavor.
• Add a pinch of salt. A little salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.

Whisk everything together until smooth. The more air you incorporate, the fluffier your French toast will be.

Step 3: Soaking the Bread

Here’s where the magic happens! To get that perfect texture, you need to soak the sourdough just right:

• Dip each slice into the batter and let it soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side.
• Let excess batter drip off before transferring the bread to the pan.
• Don’t over-soak! If you leave the bread in too long, it will absorb too much liquid and won’t cook properly.

Step 4: Cooking the French Toast

Now, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these steps for perfect, golden-brown slices:

• Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in your skillet over medium heat.
• Place the soaked bread slices in the pan, leaving space between them so they cook evenly.
• Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
• Flip gently using a spatula—don’t press down on the bread, or you’ll lose that fluffy texture!
• Add more butter as needed for the remaining slices.

The key here is patience don’t rush the process! You want a crispy, caramelized crust with a soft, flavorful inside.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even the best cooks run into problems sometimes. Here are a few common French toast mistakes and how to fix them:

Why is My French Toast Soggy?

If your sourdough French toast turns out too wet inside, it’s likely due to one of these reasons:

• Over-soaking: Reduce the soak time and make sure excess batter drips off before cooking.
• Low cooking temperature: If your pan isn’t hot enough, the toast won’t cook properly. Use medium heat and make sure the pan is preheated.
• Too much milk in the batter: Try using a little less liquid for a thicker, creamier custard.

How to Get a Crispy, Golden-Brown Exterior

Want that perfect crunch on the outside? Here’s how:

• Use butter AND a little oil. Butter adds flavor, while oil helps prevent burning.
• Cook at the right temperature. Medium heat is ideal—too high and it burns, too low and it turns soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each slice space so the heat can circulate evenly.

Fixing Bland French Toast

If your French toast tastes a little flat, try these quick fixes:

• Increase the vanilla and cinnamon. These flavors make a huge difference!
• Add a bit of brown sugar to the batter. It caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
• Top with flavorful ingredients. A drizzle of maple syrup, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate the taste instantly.

The Best Toppings and Variations

Now comes the fun part—toppings! Sourdough French toast is delicious on its own, but the right toppings can take it to the next level.

Classic Toppings

• Warm maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Butter
• Fresh fruit (strawberries, bananas, blueberries)

Creative Twists

• Nutella & bananas: Spread a little Nutella on top and add sliced bananas for a dessert-like treat.
• Honey & almonds: Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with sliced almonds for a sweet and crunchy finish.
• Peanut butter & jam: A childhood favorite with a gourmet twist!

Savory Variations

• Avocado & poached egg: A delicious, protein-packed breakfast.
• Cheese & herbs: Try adding Parmesan and fresh basil for a unique flavor combo.
• Smoked salmon & cream cheese: A fancy brunch-worthy option.

How to Store and Reheat Sourdough French Toast

So, you made a big batch of sourdough French toast (because let’s be honest, it’s too good to make just a little), but now you have leftovers. No worries! French toast stores and reheats beautifully if you do it right. Here’s how to keep that crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside perfection even after storing.

How to Store Leftover French Toast

If you plan to eat your leftovers within a few days, the fridge is your best friend.

• Let the French toast cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which makes it soggy.
• Layer with parchment paper: If stacking slices, place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking.
• Store in an airtight container: This keeps the toast fresh and prevents it from absorbing fridge odors.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Any longer, and it’s best to freeze it.

How to Freeze French Toast

If you want to keep your sourdough French toast for longer than a few days, freezing is the way to go. Here’s how:

• Arrange slices on a baking sheet: Freeze them in a single layer for 1-2 hours before transferring to a container or freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Use a freezer-safe bag or container: Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date: French toast can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.

The Best Ways to Reheat French Toast

Reheating French toast can be tricky. You want it warm and crispy, not dry or soggy. Here are the best methods:

French Toast for Special Occasions and Meal Prepping

One of the best things about sourdough French toast is how versatile it is. Whether you’re making a cozy breakfast for one or feeding a crowd, this dish always impresses.

How to Make French Toast Ahead of Time

If you want to prep in advance, here’s what to do:

• Mix the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Give it a quick whisk before using.
• Pre-soak the bread overnight for extra flavor. Cover and refrigerate, then cook in the morning.
• Make a French toast casserole: Layer soaked bread in a baking dish, cover with batter, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes.

Serving Ideas for Brunch Gatherings

Hosting brunch? Take your sourdough French toast up a notch with these serving ideas:

• Build a toppings bar: Set out bowls of fresh fruit, nuts, whipped cream, syrups, and spreads so guests can customize their toast.
• Pair with sides: Serve with crispy bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs for a complete meal.
• Make it a dessert: Drizzle with chocolate sauce, caramel, or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Still have questions? Here are some common ones:

Can I Make Sourdough French Toast Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! Just swap out the milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil for frying.

What’s the Best Way to Sweeten the Recipe Naturally?

Try adding mashed banana, honey, or maple syrup to the egg mixture for natural sweetness without refined sugar.

Can I Use Stale Sourdough Bread?

Yes! In fact, slightly stale sourdough is the best for French toast because it soaks up the batter without becoming too soft.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

• Sourdough French Toast
• Sourdough Bread is Perfect for French Toast
• Perfect French Toast

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Sourdough French Toast Awaits!

And there you have it everything you need to make the ultimate sourdough French toast from start to finish! Whether you’re making it fresh, prepping it ahead, or storing leftovers, this guide has you covered.

Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. 😊

Happy cooking with Rita Chef ❤️!

French Toast with Sourdough Bread

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• Author: Rita
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 3 to 4 servings 6 slices of French toast

Print Recipe

Description

Sourdough French Toast is a flavorful twist on the classic breakfast dish featuring the tangy and chewy texture of sourdough bread soaked in a rich cinnamon-spiced batter Cooked to golden perfection it delivers a crispy crust with a soft custardy center Whether served with maple syrup fresh fruit or a savory topping this recipe is a must-try for breakfast lovers

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients
Sourdough bread thick slices 6 slices
Eggs 3 large
Milk or heavy cream ¾ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Nutmeg optional ¼ teaspoon
Salt A pinch
Butter for cooking 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup for serving As needed

Optional Additions
Orange zest ½ teaspoon
Brown sugar 1 tablespoon
Almond extract ¼ teaspoon

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Instructions

In a wide shallow bowl whisk together the eggs milk or cream vanilla extract cinnamon nutmeg and salt until smooth
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter
Dip each slice of sourdough bread into the egg mixture allowing it to soak for 20 to 30 seconds per side Let excess batter drip off before cooking
Place the soaked bread onto the heated skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy
Repeat with remaining slices adding more butter as needed
Serve warm with maple syrup fresh fruit powdered sugar or any desired toppings

Notes

Use slightly stale sourdough bread for better absorption and texture
Cook on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring a crispy exterior
Try different toppings like honey Nutella or a savory twist with cheese and herbs
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Pan-Fried
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 280 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: sourdough French toast easy breakfast homemade French toast crispy French toast