Table of contents
If you’ve never had French toast made with sourdough bread, you’re in for a treat. Sourdough isn’t just for trendy avocado toast or your grandma’s starter recipes—it’s a game changer for French toast. It gives that sweet and creamy dish a slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with maple syrup and cinnamon. Trust me, once you try it, you might not go back to regular white bread.
In this post, we’ll dive (oops, not that word—let’s say, we’ll chat) about why sourdough works so well for French toast, how to make it step by step, and some tips to get that perfectly golden, crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside texture. Oh, and don’t worry—I’ve got answers to your most burning French toast questions at the end.
Sourdough French Toast
Sourdough French toast has quickly become one of my favorite breakfasts, especially when I’m craving something filling and flavorful. The slight tanginess of sourdough bread adds a unique twist to traditional French toast. Blend it with cozy spices like cinnamon, a little vanilla, and a tinge of maple syrup for a breakfast that’s both easy to prepare yet sumptuously satisfying.
What makes sourdough special is that it’s versatile. Whether classic sourdough, seeded, or something as creative as cinnamon-raisin, it never disappoints. The firm texture means it holds up well even after soaking in the custard mixture, so there’s no worry about it falling apart. Plus, it’s a great way to give new life to slightly stale bread—no waste, all flavor!
What Makes Sourdough Great for Breakfast Recipes
Sourdough bread has a few qualities that make it perfect for French toast:
- Texture: The slightly chewy and dense texture soaks up the custard mixture like a sponge without turning to mush. Nobody likes soggy French toast, right?
- Flavor: The tangy notes of sourdough create a flavor contrast with the sweetness of the syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla. It’s like a little flavor party in your mouth.
- Durability: Sourdough tends to hold up better than softer breads, even when dunked in the egg mixture. If you’re using day-old sourdough, it’s even better because it’s firmer and absorbs more custard.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, here’s what you’ll need for the perfect sourdough French toast. These are pantry staples, so you probably already have most of them.
- 6 slices of sourdough bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk or a mix of milk and cream for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (optional, if you like it a little sweeter)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh fruit for serving
How to Make French Toast with Sourdough Bread
Can You Make French Toast with Sourdough?
Definitely! Sourdough is actually one of the top choices for French toast. Its mild tang balances beautifully with the creamy, sweet custard, giving your French toast a one-of-a-kind flavor.
One of the best things about sourdough is its hearty texture. Unlike softer breads, it doesn’t disintegrate when soaked in the egg mixture. If you’ve ever dealt with mushy French toast, sourdough is the perfect fix.
For the best results, use slices that are slightly stale or leave fresh bread out overnight to dry. Fresh sourdough can also be dried in the oven for a few minutes, which helps it absorb the custard without turning soggy.
Making sourdough French toast is as easy as pie—actually, easier than pie! Here’s how you can whip it up.
Step 1: Prep the Bread
If your sourdough is fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to dry slightly. This helps it soak up the custard without falling apart. Cut it into thick slices, about ¾ inch thick. Thick bread = better texture.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a big mixing bowl, combine the eggs and milk, whisking until well blended., vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure it’s well combined, so you don’t get streaks of egg on your toast. No one wants scrambled eggs in their French toast!
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of sourdough into the custard mixture, letting it sit for about 20-30 seconds per side. You want it fully soaked but not dripping everywhere.
Step 4: Cook the Toast
Place a large skillet or griddle on medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. When it’s hot (but not smoking), lay the soaked bread slices in the pan. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Avoid crowding the pan to make flipping easier!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your French toast warm, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and maybe some fresh berries or bananas. If you’re feeling fancy, throw on a dollop of whipped cream.
Fresh fruit is always a great addition to French toast. For a tangy and sweet topping, try slicing up some in-season strawberries or even adding a dollop of homemade strawberry puree. If you’re curious about the health benefits of strawberries, check out this informative guide for everything you need to know about incorporating them into your meals!”
This placement ties the topic to complementary fruits while providing a natural way to include an external link.
Breakfast Ideas Using Sourdough Bread
Sourdough isn’t just for French toast—it’s a versatile ingredient that shines in all kinds of breakfast dishes. Here are some creative ways to use it:
- Classic Sourdough French Toast: A tangy-sweet dish that’s both comforting and simple.
- Avocado Toast: Top toasted sourdough with creamy avocado, a pinch of salt, pepper, and chili flakes for a quick and healthy option.
- Egg and Pancetta Toast: Layer scrambled eggs, crispy pancetta, and shredded cheese on toasted sourdough.
- Breakfast Grilled Cheese: Sandwich scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar between two slices of sourdough, then grill until golden.
- Sourdough Breakfast Pizza: Toast sourdough, spread with cream cheese, and top with smoked salmon, capers, and fresh dill.
Each of these ideas highlights how sourdough’s distinct flavor and sturdy texture make it a breakfast favorite.
Tips for the Best Sourdough French Toast
- Use stale bread: Fresh bread tends to get mushy, while slightly stale bread holds up better.
- Control the heat: Medium heat works best. Too high, and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low, and you’ll end up with soggy toast.
- Double dip for extra flavor: Brush the cooked slices with a little extra cinnamon-sugar mixture while they’re still warm. It adds a sweet crunch.
- Experiment with toppings: Sourdough French toast is versatile—try it with honey, nut butter, or even a sprinkle of nuts for some crunch.
Why Sourdough French Toast is Perfect for Brunch
French toast is already a brunch superstar, but sourdough gives it that “wow” factor. It feels a little fancy—like something you’d order at a cute café downtown—but it’s super easy to make at home. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with savory sides like bacon or sausage, so you can balance out the sweetness.
Sourdough for Breakfast
Sourdough bread is a breakfast all-star. Its natural tang makes it ideal for both sweet and savory dishes. On busy mornings, a simple slice with butter and jam is quick and satisfying. On weekends, when there’s more time to cook, sourdough French toast or a layered breakfast bake can feel like a real treat.
What makes sourdough so special is how well it pairs with bold flavors. A hearty breakfast sandwich with fried eggs, avocado, and a splash of hot sauce is delicious on sourdough. If you’re leaning toward something sweet, try spreading peanut butter on a toasted slice, topping it with banana slices, and finishing with a drizzle of honey.
There’s also a comforting, nostalgic quality to sourdough—it’s hearty and familiar but with a subtle tang that makes every dish feel a little more special. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, sourdough elevates breakfast to something memorable.
If you’re planning a brunch spread, why stop at just French toast? Pair it with something fruity, like this easy-to-make strawberry puree recipe, which makes a fantastic topping for sourdough French toast. Or, if you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, these chocolate chip waffles are a fun and delicious addition to any breakfast table!”
This placement feels natural and gives readers more options for expanding their breakfast menu while keeping them on your blog.
FAQs About Sourdough French Toast
Does sourdough taste good for French toast?
Yes! Sourdough adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of traditional French toast toppings. It’s like the perfect marriage of savory and sweet. If you’re bored of basic French toast, this is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Does sourdough bread make good toast?
Absolutely! Sourdough’s dense texture means it crisps up beautifully, whether you’re making French toast or just spreading on some butter and jam. It’s sturdy, flavorful, and delicious.
What is the best bread for French toast ?
The best bread for French toast is slightly stale, dense, and flavorful. Sourdough fits the bill perfectly, but brioche and challah are also great choices if you want something richer and more buttery.
Is brioche or sourdough better for French toast?
It depends on your taste! Brioche is rich, buttery, and sweet—perfect if you want a dessert-like French toast. Sourdough, on the other hand, offers a unique tang and sturdiness, making it ideal for those who like a balance of flavors. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either.
Can You Use Sourdough for French Toast?
Absolutely! Sourdough is a fantastic choice for French toast because it adds a depth of flavor you might not get with regular bread. Its tangy taste pairs beautifully with sweet toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
To make the best sourdough French toast, slice the bread thick and use pieces that are slightly stale. This way, the custard mixture soaks in perfectly without making the bread fall apart.
Want to customize your French toast? Add crushed nuts for a crunchy topping, or mix a little orange zest into the egg mixture for a citrusy twist. No matter how you make it, sourdough French toast will take your breakfast to the next level.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough French toast is just peachy twist on a classic breakfast favorite. It’s easy to make, fun to customize, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just treating yourself to a lazy Sunday breakfast, this recipe is a winner. So grab that sourdough loaf and get cooking—you won’t regret it!
Got any tips or topping ideas for sourdough French toast? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how you make yours!