Perfect French Toast

Ever woken up craving something warm, crispy, and delicious? Something that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of vanilla, cinnamon, and toasted bread? That’s exactly why we’re here today—to talk about sourdough French toast. If you love the classic version but want something with a tangy twist, this recipe is for you!

Unlike regular French toast, sourdough adds a unique flavor, a heartier texture, and a golden crisp that makes every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking breakfast for your family, a weekend brunch, or just treating yourself, learning how to make the perfect sourdough French toast recipe will elevate your cooking game.

Why Sourdough Bread is Perfect for French Toast

There are many types of bread out there, but sourdough French toast is something special. Why? Let’s break it down.

The Unique Texture and Flavor of Sourdough

Sourdough bread is known for its slightly tangy flavor and chewy texture. When soaked in the egg mixture, it absorbs just the right amount of liquid without becoming too soggy. The result? A crispy, golden-brown outside with a soft and fluffy inside.

Health Benefits of Sourdough Bread

• Rich in natural probiotics, making it easier to digest.
• Has a lower glycemic index than regular bread.
• Contains more nutrients like iron, magnesium, and antioxidants.

Comparing Sourdough to Other Breads for French Toast

Ingredients for the Best Sourdough French Toast

To make the best sourdough French toast recipe, you need simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Choosing the Right Sourdough Bread

The best sourdough for French toast is a slightly stale loaf. Fresh bread can become too soft and fall apart in the egg mixture. If your sourdough is fresh, let it sit out overnight or lightly toast it before soaking.

The Perfect Egg Mixture: What You Need

The magic of sourdough French toast lies in the custard-like egg mixture. It should be smooth, creamy, and flavorful to ensure every bite is delicious. A well-mixed combination of eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon makes all the difference.

Secret Ingredients for Extra Flavor

Want to take your sourdough French toast recipe to the next level? Try adding:

• A splash of orange juice for a citrusy zing.
• A touch of nutmeg for warmth and depth.
• A tablespoon of melted butter in the batter for extra richness.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Sourdough French Toast

Now, let’s get into the fun part cooking!

Step 1: Preparing the Sourdough Bread

Cut your sourdough into thick slices (about ¾ to 1 inch). If the bread is too thin, it may fall apart. If too thick, it won’t soak up enough of the egg mixture.

Step 2: Mixing the Batter for Maximum Flavor

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Make sure everything is well blended to create a smooth batter.

Step 3: Dipping the Bread

Dip each slice of sourdough into the egg mixture for about 20–30 seconds per side. You want the bread to soak up the mixture without becoming too soggy.

Step 4: Cooking the Perfect French Toast

Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and add butter. Once melted, place the soaked sourdough slices in the pan. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 5: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Soggy French Toast? The bread might be too fresh or soaked for too long. Use slightly stale bread.
• Eggy Taste? Reduce the number of eggs and mix the batter thoroughly.
• Too Dry? Make sure to use enough milk in the batter for a creamy texture.

Best Toppings and Variations for Sourdough French Toast

Now that you’ve mastered the basic sourdough French toast recipe, let’s talk about toppings and variations! The beauty of French toast is how versatile it is. Whether you love it sweet, savory, or extra indulgent, there’s a perfect topping for you.

Classic Toppings: Maple Syrup, Butter & More

You can never go wrong with the classic combination of butter and maple syrup. The warm, golden slices of sourdough French toast soak up the syrup beautifully, creating a perfectly balanced bite.

• Pure Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances the rich flavor of sourdough.
• Whipped Butter – Adds a creamy and slightly salty contrast to the sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar – A light dusting makes it feel like a fancy brunch treat.

Gourmet Toppings: Fresh Fruits, Nuts, and Creams

If you want to make your French toast feel extra special, try these gourmet toppings:

• Fresh Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a tart freshness.
• Banana Slices – Pair with a drizzle of honey or peanut butter.
• Chopped Nuts – Almonds, walnuts, or pecans add a great crunch.
• Whipped Cream – A fluffy, luxurious addition.
• Caramelized Apples – Cook apples with cinnamon and brown sugar for an autumn-inspired treat.

Savory vs. Sweet: Unique Flavor Twists

Who says French toast has to be sweet? Sourdough’s tangy flavor makes it an excellent base for savory variations, too.

Want to try something bold? Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on your French toast while it cooks for a crispy, cheesy crust.

Troubleshooting Common Sourdough French Toast Problems

Even the best cooks run into problems. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Why Is My French Toast Soggy?

Soggy French toast is usually caused by using fresh bread or soaking it too long.

• Solution: Use slightly stale sourdough. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast it before dipping.
• Solution: Don’t soak the bread for more than 30 seconds per side.

Why Is My French Toast Too Dry?

Dry French toast happens when there’s not enough liquid in the batter or the bread is too thick.

• Solution: Increase the milk in your egg mixture for a richer custard.
• Solution: Soak the bread a little longer to absorb enough liquid.

How to Get the Perfect Golden-Brown Crust

Struggling with uneven browning? Here’s what you can do:

• Solution: Use medium heat—too high, and it burns; too low, and it gets soggy.
• Solution: Cook in butter for a crispier texture.
• Solution: Wipe the pan between batches to avoid burnt bits.

Tips for Making the Best Sourdough French Toast

Want to take your sourdough French toast recipe to the next level? Follow these expert tips:

Choosing the Right Pan and Heat Level

• Use a non-stick pan or cast-iron skillet for even cooking.
• Set heat to medium for golden-brown perfection.

Prepping the Bread for Better Absorption

If you have time, let your sourdough slices dry out overnight. This helps them soak up the batter without getting too soggy.

Using the Right Cooking Oils and Butters

Butter gives the best flavor, but if you want extra crispiness, use a mix of butter and oil.

• Butter – Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
• Coconut Oil – A dairy-free alternative with a slight tropical taste.
• Ghee – Great for a deep, buttery flavor without burning.

Storing and Reheating Sourdough French Toast

Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them for later.

Best Ways to Store Leftover French Toast

• Let the slices cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them with parchment paper between each slice.

How to Reheat for the Best Texture and Taste

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes for crispy results.
• Toaster: A quick and easy method to restore crispiness.
• Microwave: Use in short bursts if you’re in a hurry, but it may soften the toast.

Sourdough French Toast for Special Diets

French toast is a classic comfort food, but what if you have dietary restrictions? No worries! You can still enjoy a delicious sourdough French toast recipe with a few easy swaps.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Alternatives

If you’re avoiding dairy or eggs, here’s how to modify the recipe:

• Milk Substitute: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
• Egg Replacement: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg.
• Butter Alternative: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for frying.

Vegan French toast can be just as delicious with the right flavors. Adding vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a bit of maple syrup to the batter keeps it rich and tasty.

Gluten-Free Options (Using Sourdough Alternatives)

Traditional sourdough contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free sourdough at specialty bakeries or make your own using gluten-free flour.

• Look for a high-quality gluten-free sourdough with a sturdy texture.
• Make sure the bread is slightly stale to prevent it from falling apart.
• Follow the same soaking and cooking process for perfect results.

Sourdough French Toast Around the World

Did you know that French toast exists in many different cultures? Here are a few international variations:

French Toast vs. Pain Perdu: What’s the Difference?

In France, French toast is called Pain Perdu, meaning “lost bread.” It was traditionally made to use up stale bread and is often cooked with richer ingredients like heavy cream.

International Variations of French Toast

Each country puts its own twist on the recipe, making it a truly global dish!

FAQs

Read here: Does Sourdough Taste Good for French Toast?

Yes, sourdough can taste great for French toast! Its slightly tangy flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the egg and milk mixture, syrup, and toppings. The dense texture of sourdough absorbs the custard mixture well, giving it a delightful flavor and a slightly chewy bite.

Is Sourdough or Brioche Better for French Toast?

This depends on your taste preferences:

• Brioche: Known for its soft, rich, and buttery texture, brioche is often considered the ultimate bread for French toast. It’s indulgent, tender, and soaks up the custard mixture perfectly without falling apart.
• Sourdough: Offers a tangy, slightly chewy alternative. It’s heartier and brings a rustic feel to French toast. If you like a balanced sweet-savory flavor, sourdough is a fantastic choice.

Find out: Does Sourdough Bread Make Good Toast?

Yes, sourdough bread makes excellent toast! Its crispy crust and chewy interior become even better when toasted. The tangy flavor shines when paired with toppings like butter, jam, avocado, or even a fried egg. Its sturdy structure ensures it doesn’t become soggy easily, making it versatile for various spreads and toppings.

What Kind of Bread Is Best for French Toast?

The best bread for French toast depends on the desired texture and flavor. Here are some popular options:

• Brioche: Buttery, soft, and rich, it’s the gold standard for luxurious French toast.
• Challah: Similar to brioche but less sweet, with a slightly firmer texture.
• Sourdough: Great for a tangy twist and a chewy texture.
• Texas Toast: Thick slices that absorb the custard well, ideal for hearty servings.
• French Bread: Dense and crusty, perfect for a rustic and chewy French toast.

Each bread offers a unique taste and texture, so the “best” bread depends on your preferences!

Explore More Delicious Recipes

• French Toast with Sourdough Bread
• Sourdough French Toast
• How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Sourdough French Toast Today

By now, you’ve learned everything about making the perfect sourdough French toast recipe from choosing the best bread to troubleshooting mistakes, exploring unique toppings, and even trying international variations.

Whether you like it sweet or savory, classic or creative, sourdough French toast is a simple yet impressive dish that never disappoints. The tangy, crispy texture of sourdough bread adds a unique depth of flavor you won’t get with regular bread.

“Food brings people together on many different levels. It’s nourishment of the soul and body.” – Giada De Laurentiis

If you’ve never tried making sourdough French toast before, now is the time! Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to the best breakfast ever.

We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite way to enjoy French toast? Drop a comment below and follow us on Facebook for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.

Happy cooking with Rita Chef ❤️!

Perfect French Toast at Home

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• Author: Rita
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 3 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This homemade sourdough French toast is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with rich, comforting flavors. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, this recipe transforms sourdough bread into a golden, delicious breakfast favorite. Whether topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, it’s the perfect way to start your morning

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

6 slices of sourdough bread slightly stale works best
3 large eggs
¾ cup milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon sugar or honey
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter for cooking
Maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar for serving

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Instructions

In a large bowl whisk together eggs milk vanilla extract cinnamon sugar and salt until fully combined
Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and add butter
Dip each slice of sourdough bread into the egg mixture for about 20 to 30 seconds per side ensuring even coating without making it too soggy
Place the soaked bread slices onto the heated pan and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy
Remove from heat and serve warm with maple syrup fresh fruit powdered sugar or your favorite toppings

Notes

If your sourdough bread is fresh let it sit out overnight or lightly toast it before dipping to prevent sogginess
For a dairy-free version use almond milk oat milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk
To make a vegan version replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture and use plant-based milk

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Pan-fried
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 slices
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: Sourdough French toast recipe Homemade sourdough French toast Best sourdough French toast