Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French Toast, using homemade Sourdough French Bread, blends the tangy notes of sourdough with the creamy richness of classic breakfast custard. Each slice, with its chewy crust and fluffy texture, absorbs a sweet cinnamon custard, creating a decadent yet comforting breakfast choice, perfect for holidays or relaxed weekend mornings.

This post may contain affiliate links which I earn a small portion in sales if a purchase is made. Rest assured though, it is never at any additional cost to you.

Sourdough French Toast: An Easy Breakfast Classic with a Gourmet Twist

If you’re new to cooking from scratch, you might feel intimidated by gourmet recipes that seem too complex to tackle at home. French Toast often falls into that category for many. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that it’s incredibly easy to make and can elevate your breakfast to gourmet status.

What’s more, using sourdough bread takes this already delicious breakfast to the next level of gourmet. Sourdough’s robust texture and tangy flavor add an extra layer of complexity, transforming a simple dish into a culinary delight. So, don’t hesitate to give it a try – with just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying gourmet Sourdough French Toast in no time!

Homemade vs Store Bough Sourdough Bread

For those with time to spare and a love for hands-on baking, homemade sourdough offers the ultimate satisfaction. Crafted with care and attention, it promises artisanal quality and flavor, perfect for those who enjoy the process as much as the result.

For those with a busy schedule or limited baking experience, store-bought sourdough is a convenient alternative. While it may not offer the same level of customization as homemade, it still provides a delicious taste of sourdough goodness without the need for extensive preparation.

Ingredients Needed

• Sourdough French Bread– The base of the dish, sourdough bread adds tanginess and depth of flavor. Its sturdy texture holds up well to soaking in the egg mixture without becoming overly soggy, resulting in a crisp exterior and a tender, custardy interior.
• Eggs– Eggs bind the ingredients together, creating a rich and creamy custard-like texture when cooked. They also add protein and richness to the dish.
• Milk– Milk adds moisture and richness to the egg mixture, resulting in a softer and more tender French toast. It also contributes to the overall creaminess of the dish.
• Cinnamon– Cinnamon provides warm and aromatic flavor notes that complement the sweetness of the dish. It adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the French toast. Note: Ceylon Cinnamon is considered to be the “true” cinnamon and has an amazing depth of flavor.
• Sugar– Sugar enhances the sweetness of the French toast, balancing out the tanginess of the sourdough bread. It also contributes to caramelization, creating a crispy and golden-brown crust when cooked.
• Vanilla Extract– Vanilla extract adds a subtle floral and sweet flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the French toast. It rounds out the flavors and adds depth to the dish.
• Oil– High heat oil, such as avocado oil, is used to coat the cooking surface and prevent sticking. It also helps achieve a crispy and golden-brown exterior when cooking the French toast at high heat.

Making Homemade Sourdough French Bread

To start baking your own homemade sourdough bread, you’ll need to create and maintain a sourdough starter. It may seem intimidating, but with my Easy Sourdough Starter recipe, you’ll find that making your own starter is far simpler than it appears. Additionally, be sure to check out my post on Maintaining Sourdough Starter, where I address common challenges and provide solutions to help new bakers navigate their sourdough journey with confidence.

Once your starter is healthy and full of life, it’s time to make Sourdough French Bread, which is perfect for making this French Toast recipe. Keep in mind, creating a new sourdough starter typically takes around 7 days, while the process of making, proofing, and baking the French bread requires approximately 24 hours.

How To Make Sourdough French Toast

1. Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla in a dish.
2. Heat skillet over medium heat. Coat with oil.
3. Dip bread in egg mixture for 15-20 seconds per side.
4. Cook until golden on one side, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Flip and cook until golden on the other side.
6. Serve with desired toppings.

Serving and Garnishing

• Maple Syrup– Drizzle warm maple syrup over the French toast for classic sweetness.
• Fresh Berries– Top with a handful of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and freshness.
• Powdered Sugar– Dust the French toast with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
• Whipped Cream– Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of the French toast for a creamy and indulgent finish.
• Sliced Bananas– Serve with sliced bananas for a naturally sweet and creamy addition.
• Nutella or Peanut Butter– Spread Nutella or peanut butter between the slices of French toast for a deliciously decadent twist.
• Honey or Agave Syrup– Drizzle with honey or agave syrup for a natural and slightly floral sweetness.
• Toasted Nuts– Sprinkle toasted nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Caramel Sauce– Drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent and rich finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is sourdough or brioche better for French toast?

Sourdough French toast offers a hearty and slightly tangy experience. On the other hand, brioche French toast provides a rich, buttery indulgence perfect for a decadent breakfast treat. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prefer a tangy kick or a melt-in-your-mouth sweetness.

What is the trick to making good French toast?

The key to perfect French toast is soaking bread slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon until thoroughly absorbed, about 15-20 seconds per side. Cook them on an oiled skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides. Depending on the bread used, adjust soaking time for a custardy interior and crispy exterior, resulting in delicious French toast every time.

How do I ensure my French toast isn’t soggy?

To prevent soggy French toast: Use slightly stale bread, as fresh bread can become mushy. Dip bread slices briefly in the egg mixture, about 15-20 seconds per side. Cook on a preheated skillet or griddle over medium heat until golden brown and crispy. This helps to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess.

Can I make Sourdough French Toast ahead of time?

For optimal results, prepare Sourdough French Toast just before serving. If you choose to cook it ahead of time, make sure it’s cooked until just done. Then, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. When reheating, use a toaster, oven, or skillet to warm it evenly, preserving its texture and flavor.

How thick should I slice the sourdough bread for French toast?

For the ideal Sourdough French Toast, slice your bread approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. This thickness lets the bread soak up the egg mixture without getting too soggy. It creates a perfect balance of custardy inside and crispy outside when cooked.

What are the best pans to cook Sourdough French Toast in?

The ideal pans for cooking Sourdough French Toast are well-seasoned cast iron, enameled cast iron, and stainless steel. These options ensure even heat distribution and offer healthier cooking alternatives, as compared to nonstick pans.

What’s the trick to using stainless steel to cook French toast?

When cooking French toast on stainless steel, preheat the pan properly over medium heat. Coat it generously with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Let the French toast cook undisturbed until it develops a golden-brown crust on one side before flipping. Use a spatula to gently lift and turn the slices, avoiding tearing. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking.

Can I freeze leftover Sourdough French Toast?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Sourdough French Toast for later consumption. After cooking, let the French toast cool completely. Then, arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until firm. Finally, transfer the slices to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Frozen Sourdough French Toast can be reheated in a toaster, oven, or skillet straight from the freezer until heated through.

Is it better to use butter or oil to make French Toast?

Both butter and oil have their merits when making French toast. Butter adds rich flavor and a golden-brown crust. Oil prevents sticking, makes it crispier, and has a higher smoke point, reducing the risk of burning. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and dietary considerations.