Sourdough French Toast: A Comprehensive Guide

Sourdough bread is a game-changer when it comes to making French toast. The bread’s unique tang and sturdy texture make it a perfect candidate for soaking in the sweet, creamy custard mixture that turns an ordinary breakfast into something special. If you’ve been using brioche or white bread for your French toast, it’s time to give sourdough a try.

In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of making sourdough French toast. We’ll discuss why sourdough is ideal, the best toppings, common mistakes to avoid, vegan and dairy-free alternatives, and much more.

Ingredients Needed for Sourdough French Toast

Before you get started, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. The following list includes the basics, as well as some optional additions that can take your sourdough French toast to the next level.

Basic Ingredients:

• Sourdough bread (preferably day-old for the best texture)
• Eggs (helps create the custard mixture)
• Milk or cream (or plant-based milk for a dairy-free option)
• Vanilla extract (for sweetness and aroma)
• Cinnamon (adds warmth and spice)
• Salt (balances the flavors)
• Butter (for frying)

Optional Ingredients:

• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh fruit (such as berries, bananas, or apples)

If you love using sourdough in breakfast recipes, don’t miss these fluffy and flavorful Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sourdough French Toast

1. Preparing the Sourdough Bread

Choose a loaf of sourdough that’s at least a day old. Fresh sourdough tends to be too soft and may fall apart during soaking, so it’s best to use slightly stale bread. Cut your sourdough into slices that are about ¾-inch thick for the perfect balance between crispiness and softness.

2. Making the Custard Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together:

• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• A pinch of salt

Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

3. Soaking the Bread

Place each slice of sourdough bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Be sure not to over-soak the bread, as it can become too soft and difficult to handle during cooking.

4. Cooking the Sourdough French Toast

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or coconut oil. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, place the soaked slices of bread onto the skillet. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Best Toppings for Sourdough French Toast

One of the great things about French toast is that it’s incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Whether you prefer the classics or want to try something more adventurous, the options are endless.

Classic Toppings:

• Maple syrup: A classic topping that enhances the tangy flavor of sourdough.
• Powdered sugar: For a touch of sweetness and a visually appealing presentation.
• Whipped cream: Adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispiness of the French toast.

Fresh Fruits:

• Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries add a burst of freshness.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas bring a natural sweetness to balance the tang of the sourdough.
• Apple compote: For a warm, cozy flavor, try topping your French toast with homemade apple compote.

Nutty Toppings:

• Toasted pecans or walnuts: Add crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Almonds: Thinly sliced almonds add texture without overpowering the flavor of the dish.

Specialty Toppings:

• Crème fraîche: For a tangy, creamy addition that complements the sourdough’s flavor.
• Fruit sauces: Blueberry or strawberry sauce can add a fruity twist to your French toast.

If you need more inspiration for toppings, you can explore this helpful guide to French toast toppings.

For a cozy and unique beverage to enjoy with your Sourdough French Toast, try this soothing Lavender Oat Milk Latte. Its floral notes pair beautifully with the rich, custardy toast

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sourdough French Toast

Although making French toast seems straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can result in less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to help you avoid these pitfalls:

1. Over-Soaking the Bread

• Soaking the bread for too long can make it soggy and difficult to cook evenly. Aim for about 2-3 minutes of soaking per side, especially when using sourdough bread, which absorbs the custard well.

2. Using Fresh Bread

• Fresh bread doesn’t hold up well during soaking and can fall apart during cooking. Day-old or slightly stale bread is much better for French toast, as it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.

3. Cooking at Too High a Temperature

• Cooking French toast at high heat can result in a burnt exterior and undercooked interior. Stick to medium heat to ensure the bread cooks evenly and achieves a golden-brown crust.

4. Not Flipping the Bread at the Right Time

• Flip the French toast only when the edges start to turn golden and crispy. Flipping too early may prevent the bread from developing the desired texture.

For a unique pairing, try serving your sourdough French toast with a soothing cup of Lavender Matcha. The floral notes of lavender combined with the earthiness of matcha create a perfect balance to the richness of the French toast

Sourdough French toast is an elevated version of the classic breakfast dish, bringing a unique tangy flavor and a perfectly crisp texture. Whether you’re sticking with traditional toppings like maple syrup and powdered sugar or trying something more creative, this dish is versatile enough to please everyone at the table.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to make sourdough French toast that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside every time.

Print