Sourdough French Toast

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 deep, rich flavor you were craving. That’s exactly how I felt until I discovered the magic of sourdough French toast. The slightly tangy taste of sourdough bread mixed with a cinnamon-spiced custard creates a breakfast experience like no other.

I remember the first time I tried it. I had some leftover sourdough bread on my kitchen counter, just slightly stale but still full of flavor. Instead of making the usual toast, I decided to turn it into something special. A quick soak in a creamy vanilla-infused batter, a few minutes in a buttery skillet, and I had the crispiest, most delicious sourdough French toast I’d ever tasted. That was the moment I knew I’d never go back to regular bread for my French toast again.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect sourdough French toast recipe. From choosing the best bread to cooking it just right, you’ll learn how to elevate your breakfast game. Let’s get started!

Why You Should Try Sourdough French Toast

If you’ve never used sourdough for French toast before, you might be wondering what makes it so special. Let’s break it down.

The Unique Flavor and Texture of Sourdough

Sourdough bread has a natural tanginess that adds depth to every bite. Unlike soft sandwich bread, it has a sturdy texture that holds up beautifully when soaked in custard. This means no more soggy, falling-apart French toast—just perfectly crisp edges with a tender, custardy center.

Health Benefits of Using Sourdough Bread

Believe it or not, sourdough French toast isn’t just delicious—it’s also a healthier choice compared to traditional white bread. Here’s why:

• Easy to digest: The fermentation process in sourdough bread breaks down gluten, making it gentler on your stomach.
• Lower glycemic index: Sourdough bread causes less of a blood sugar spike compared to processed white bread.
• Rich in nutrients: It contains more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than most other breads.

How Sourdough Compares to Other Bread Choices

Not sure if sourdough is the right choice? Here’s a quick comparison of different breads used for French toast:

Ingredients for the Best Sourdough French Toast

Now that we know why sourdough French toast is the ultimate 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 Perfect 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 you know why sourdough French toast is a must-try and have gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to make some magic happen in the kitchen. The key to getting that crispy outside and soft, custardy inside is all in the technique. Follow these steps to make the most delicious sourdough French toast you’ve ever had.

Step 1: Preparing the Bread

Great French toast starts with the right bread preparation. Here’s what you need to do:

• Use slightly stale bread: Fresh sourdough can be too soft and may turn mushy. If your bread is fresh, let it sit out overnight or lightly toast it before soaking.
• Slice it thick: Aim for slices about ¾ to 1 inch thick. This ensures the bread absorbs the custard without falling apart.
• Preheat your skillet or griddle: Set it to medium heat while preparing the batter so it’s ready to go.

Step 2: Making the Perfect Egg Batter

The batter is what gives sourdough French toast its rich, custardy texture. To make it:

• Crack 3 large eggs into a wide, shallow bowl and whisk them well.
• Add ¾ cup of milk or cream. Cream will make the toast extra rich, while milk keeps it lighter.
• Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic touch.
• Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. These spices add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.

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

Step 3: Soaking the Bread

This step is crucial! Here’s how to soak your sourdough properly:

• Dip each slice of bread 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 skillet.
• Don’t over-soak: Too much soaking will make the inside soggy instead of custardy.

Step 4: Cooking the French Toast

Now comes the best part—cooking your sourdough French toast to golden perfection:

• Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a 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 until golden brown and slightly crispy.
• Flip gently using a spatula—avoid pressing down on the toast, as this can make it dense.
• Add more butter as needed for the remaining slices.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even the best cooks make mistakes sometimes. If your sourdough French toast isn’t turning out quite right, here are some common problems and how to fix them:

Why is My French Toast Soggy?

If your French toast is coming out wet in the middle, it might be due to:

• Over-soaking: Reduce the soak time and let the excess batter drip off before cooking.
• Too much liquid in the batter: Try using a little less milk or cream.
• Low cooking temperature: If your pan isn’t hot enough, the toast won’t cook properly. Medium heat is ideal.

How to Get a Crispy, Golden-Brown Exterior

If your French toast is too soft on the outside, try these tips:

• Use butter and a little oil: Butter adds flavor, while oil prevents burning.
• Cook at the right temperature: Medium heat is best—too high and it burns, too low and it turns mushy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even heat distribution.

Fixing Bland French Toast

If your sourdough French toast tastes a little plain, here’s how to boost the flavor:

• Add more vanilla and cinnamon: These ingredients make a huge difference.
• Use brown sugar in the batter: This caramelizes when cooked, adding extra flavor.
• Top with flavorful additions: A drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can enhance the taste instantly.

The Best Toppings and Serving Ideas

French toast is great on its own, but toppings can take it to another level. Here are some ideas to try:

Classic Sweet Toppings

• Warm maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, or blueberries
• Whipped cream

Creative Twists

• Nutella & bananas: Spread Nutella on top and add sliced bananas for a chocolatey treat.
• Honey & almonds: Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with sliced almonds for crunch.
• Peanut butter & jam: A childhood favorite with a gourmet twist.

Savory Variations

• Avocado & poached egg: A delicious, protein-packed option.
• Cheese & herbs: Try adding grated Parmesan and fresh basil.
• Smoked salmon & cream cheese: A fancy brunch-worthy choice.

How to Store and Reheat Sourdough French Toast

So, you made a big batch of sourdough French toast and now you have leftovers. Don’t worry—French toast stores and reheats beautifully if you do it the right way. Whether you want to enjoy it tomorrow morning or save some for a future quick breakfast, here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

How to Store Leftover French Toast

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

• 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 longer than a few days, freezing is the way to go.

• Arrange slices on a baking sheet: Freeze them in a single layer for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer bag or airtight container. 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 the right way ensures it stays crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. 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

Want to make mornings easier? Prep your French toast ahead of time with these simple tricks:

• 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

• French Toast with Sourdough Bread
• 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 recipe 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 ❤️!

Sourdough French Toast

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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 delicious twist on the classic breakfast dish The tangy and chewy texture of sourdough bread pairs perfectly with a rich vanilla and cinnamon-spiced custard When cooked to golden perfection it has a crispy crust with a soft custardy center Whether served with maple syrup fresh berries or a savory topping this recipe is perfect for any morning meal or brunch gathering

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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

Whisk the eggs milk or cream vanilla extract cinnamon nutmeg and salt in a wide shallow bowl until well combined
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 placing it on the skillet
Cook each slice for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy
Flip gently with a spatula and avoid pressing down to keep the toast fluffy inside
Repeat the process with the 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 prevent burning while ensuring a crispy golden crust
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