How to Make Perfect Sourdough French Toast: A Breakfast Favorite

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Sourdough French toast is one of those breakfast dishes that feels extra special but is surprisingly easy to make. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a quick weekday treat, it’s always a good time for this delicious meal. With its crispy edges, soft center, and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s hard not to love! Plus, sourdough bread adds a unique tangy flavor that makes this recipe stand out from the usual French toast.

If you’ve ever wondered how to get that perfect golden-brown toast or how to make sure it’s not too soggy, don’t worry—you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll guide you through everything, step by step. From picking the best bread to choosing the tastiest toppings, you’ll have all the tips you need to whip up sourdough French toast like a pro. Let’s get started!

Why Sourdough Bread Is Perfect for French Toast

Sourdough bread is hands down one of the best choices for making French toast. It’s not just bread; it’s like the superhero of breakfast foods! So, why is it so perfect for French toast? Let’s break it down.

Unique Flavor and Texture

First of all, sourdough bread has a tangy flavor that makes it extra tasty. Unlike regular white bread, which can be a little plain, sourdough adds a fun, slightly sour kick that goes so well with sweet toppings like maple syrup or powdered sugar. Not only that, but the texture of sourdough is different, too. It’s chewy and hearty, so it holds up really well when cooked. This means you get crispy edges and a soft, fluffy center every time.

Holds Up Well to Soaking

Another reason sourdough bread is a winner is that it doesn’t fall apart when you soak it in the egg mixture. With regular bread, it can get soggy or even tear apart, especially if it’s too thin. But sourdough is stronger and can handle soaking without any problems. If you use thick slices, it gets even better! The bread soaks up just the right amount of the egg mixture, giving it tons of flavor without becoming mushy.

Versatility for Sweet or Savory Additions

Finally, sourdough bread is super versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or craving something savory, sourdough French toast works for both. You can top it with sweet options like whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, go savory with crispy bacon, avocado slices, or even a fried egg.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have all your ingredients ready. This recipe uses simple, everyday items that you probably already have in your kitchen. With just a few fresh and flavorful ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making the perfect sourdough French toast. Let’s break it down step by step so it’s super easy to follow.

Sourdough Bread

First, you’ll need sourdough bread. This is what makes this French toast recipe extra special. Fresh sourdough bread is great, but slightly stale bread works even better. Why? Because stale bread soaks up the egg mixture without getting too soggy. Try to cut your bread into thick slices—about ¾ inch—so it holds up while cooking.

Egg Mixture Essentials

Next, the egg mixture is what gives French toast its creamy, delicious texture. You’ll mix eggs, milk or cream, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. This combination adds just the right amount of sweetness and warmth to the toast. The cinnamon and nutmeg give it a cozy flavor that’s hard to resist, and the vanilla extract adds a sweet aroma.

Here’s what you’ll need for the mixture:

Cooking and Topping Ingredients

For cooking, you’ll need butter to keep the bread from sticking to the pan and to give it a golden, crispy finish. Make sure to have enough on hand, as you’ll add a little more butter to the pan for each batch.

When it comes to toppings, there are so many fun options. Maple syrup is a classic, but you can also use powdered sugar, fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, or even whipped cream. These toppings make the toast extra tasty and look amazing too!

Step-by-Step Recipe for Sourdough French Toast

Making sourdough French toast is easier than you might think, and it doesn’t take much time at all. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious breakfast that everyone will love. Follow along, and you’ll see how straightforward it is!

1. Prepare the Ingredients

First, gather everything you need. Start with sourdough bread—it’s best if it’s slightly stale because it soaks up the egg mixture better. Next, slice the bread into thick slices. This way, it won’t fall apart while cooking.

Then, in a large bowl, whisk together the egg mixture. You’ll need eggs, milk (or cream), cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of nutmeg. These ingredients are what make the French toast taste so amazing. Whisk everything until it’s smooth, and make sure the spices are evenly mixed.

2. Soak the Bread

Once your egg mixture is ready, it’s time to soak the bread. Dip one slice at a time into the bowl. Flip the bread over so both sides are evenly coated. But don’t let it sit too long! Just a few seconds on each side will do the trick. If the bread soaks too much, it can get soggy, and you don’t want that.

3. Cook the French Toast

Now, it’s time to cook! Heat some butter in a non-stick skillet or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, place your soaked bread slices into the pan.

Cook each slice for about 2–3 minutes on one side, or until it turns a golden brown. Then, flip it carefully with a spatula and cook the other side for another 2–3 minutes. You want the French toast to be crispy on the outside but soft in the middle.

Delicious Topping Ideas for Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French toast is amazing on its own, but let’s be honest—it’s the toppings that really make it shine. Whether you like sweet, fruity, or even savory flavors, there’s a topping out there for everyone. Adding the right toppings can take your French toast from good to absolutely unforgettable. Let’s dive into some classic and creative ideas that are perfect for any taste!

Classic Maple Syrup and Butter

When it comes to toppings, you really can’t go wrong with maple syrup and butter. First, the melted butter gives your sourdough French toast a rich and creamy flavor. Then, the maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that’s just perfect for breakfast. It’s such a simple combination, but honestly, it’s a favorite for a reason. Plus, this combo is super easy to pull together, so it’s great for busy mornings.

Fresh Fruits and Berries

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, fresh fruits are a fantastic option. You can slice up some bananas for natural sweetness or sprinkle on fresh blueberries or strawberries for a juicy burst of flavor. Another great idea is to mix a few berries together to make a colorful topping. Not only does this add a ton of flavor, but it also makes your plate look so pretty. Plus, fruits like these go really well with sourdough’s tangy taste.

Whipped Cream and Powdered Sugar

For those who want to add a fancy touch, whipped cream and powdered sugar are a match made in heaven. A dollop of whipped cream makes each bite feel light and creamy, while powdered sugar gives it just the right amount of extra sweetness. It’s perfect for special occasions—or when you just want to treat yourself!

Savory Options

Now, if you’re in the mood for something a little different, savory toppings are the way to go. Try adding crispy bacon or a fried egg for a salty, satisfying twist. You can even slice up some avocado to give it a creamy, savory flavor. Sourdough’s tangy taste pairs surprisingly well with these toppings, making it a unique and delicious choice for brunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does sourdough taste good for French toast?

Yes, sourdough tastes amazing in French toast! The tangy flavor of sourdough bread pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the egg mixture, maple syrup, and toppings like fresh fruit or powdered sugar. Plus, the chewy texture of sourdough makes it stand out compared to regular bread. If you’re looking for something that’s a little different but still delicious, sourdough French toast is a fantastic choice.

Is sourdough or brioche better for French toast?

Both sourdough and brioche make great French toast, but it depends on what you like. Sourdough has a tangy, bold flavor, while brioche is soft, sweet, and buttery. Sourdough is perfect if you want a unique twist, and it holds up really well when soaked in the egg mixture. On the other hand, brioche is ideal if you’re craving something rich and dessert-like. Either way, you can’t go wrong!

Does sourdough bread make good toast?

Absolutely, sourdough bread makes amazing toast. Its sturdy texture and slightly crispy crust are perfect for toasting. Whether you spread it with butter, drizzle it with honey, or pile on avocado slices, sourdough toast is always a winner. It’s also great for savory options like eggs or even French toast.

What is the most common mistake in making French toast?

The most common mistake is soaking the bread for too long. If the bread gets too soggy, it can fall apart or end up mushy inside. To avoid this, dip the bread in the egg mixture just long enough to coat both sides. Also, cooking on high heat is another mistake. Low to medium heat is best for that golden-brown crust without burning.

To end

Sourdough French toast is such a simple and tasty breakfast that anyone can make it, and that’s what makes it so special. From the crispy edges to the soft, flavorful center, this dish is perfect for mornings when you want something both easy and delicious. Plus, sourdough bread brings a tangy twist that regular bread just can’t match.

What’s even better is how versatile this recipe is. You can keep it classic with maple syrup and butter, or you can make it fancy by adding powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh fruits like strawberries and blueberries. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some savory toppings like crispy bacon or even fried eggs!

So, why not give it a try? It’s fun to experiment with different toppings and flavors, and it’s a great way to make breakfast extra special. After you try the recipe, I’d love to hear about your creations. Share your feedback or ideas in the comments below—it’s always fun to learn from each other. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or making breakfast for your family, sourdough French toast is sure to be a favorite. Go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy!