Sourdough French Toast: Easy Recipe for the Best Breakfast Ever

If you’re a breakfast fanatic like me, you know there’s something magical about starting your day with a warm, comforting plate of French toast. But have you ever tried sourdough French toast? This twist on the classic recipe will totally elevate your morning to the best breakfast ever, as the tangy flavor of sourdough bread adds depth to the dish. This is my go-to easy recipe when I am having a busy morning or want to impress guests with something simple yet super delicious.

Whether you’re in the mood for sweet or savory, this sourdough French toast recipe will surely be your new favorite breakfast treat. Let’s dive in and see how to make perfectly crispy and fluffy sourdough French breakfast toast that you will always want more of!

Why Sourdough Bread is Perfect for French Toast

If you’ve ever made French toast with regular white bread, you know how it can turn into a mushy mess. Well, let me introduce you to sourdough bread—the game-changing ingredient that will take your French toast to the next level! With its delicious tangy flavor and hearty texture, sourdough brings natural goodness to every bite, making it the ultimate choice for sourdough breakfast toast. Let’s break down exactly why sourdough is the secret to turning your French toast from great to absolutely irresistible.

The Sourdough Taste Makes French Toast Special

One of the biggest reasons I love using sourdough bread for French toast is its unique, slightly tangy taste. Unlike regular sandwich bread, which can be a little bland, sourdough has a rich, complex flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla. That little bit of tang cuts through the richness, creating an irresistible mix of sweet and savory. It’s the kind of flavor that keeps you coming back for one more bite—or let’s be honest, one more slice!

The Sturdy Texture Soaks Up the Batter Without Falling Apart

You know how frustrating it is when a slice of white bread falls apart before it even reaches the pan? That’s where sourdough bread really shines! Its denser, chewier crumb holds up beautifully when soaked in the egg mixture. It absorbs just the right amount of rich, cinnamon-vanilla batter without turning to mush. The result? French toast that’s custardy on the inside and golden-crispy on the outside—exactly how it’s meant to be.

Sourdough Is Naturally Healthier Than Regular Bread

Okay, I won’t pretend that French toast is a “health food,” but using sourdough bread does add some nutritional benefits! Because it’s naturally fermented, sourdough is easier to digest than regular bread. The fermentation process helps break down gluten and adds gut-friendly probiotics. Plus, it has a lower glycemic index, which means it won’t spike your blood sugar as quickly as white bread. So if you needed another reason to indulge in this sourdough French toast recipe, here it is—your taste buds and your tummy will thank you!

It Gives You That Perfect Crunchy, Crispy, Yet Fluffy Texture

For me, the best French toast has to have a golden, slightly crispy edge while staying soft and fluffy in the middle. And guess what? Sourdough delivers every time! With its thicker crust, the edges turn beautifully crispy when cooked in butter. Meanwhile, the inside remains light, airy, and packed with flavor. The result? A dreamy combination of textures—crispy, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

So, if you haven’t tried sourdough French toast yet, I highly recommend it. It’s a simple swap that makes a world of difference in taste, texture, and overall breakfast satisfaction. Now, let’s move on to the key ingredients you’ll need to whip up this incredible recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Sourdough French Toast

Alright, let’s talk ingredients! The best sourdough French toast doesn’t require a lot, but just a few simple staples combined to make breakfast magic. I’m all about using ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen, so there’s no need for fancy shopping trips. But let me tell you, even with these simple ingredients, this indeed becomes something special. Now, let’s delve into the must-have ingredients that you will need to make that perfect golden, crispy, and creamy sourdough French toast.

Sourdough Bread: The Star of the Show

First and foremost, the bread! You can never have this recipe without a heavy loaf of sourdough bread. This is the base of this breakfast, and the sourness is really what makes it different from normal French toast. Go for a loaf that’s on the firmer side—thick, chewy slices that will stand up to the batter and give you that perfect crispy edge. Whether you get a freshly baked sourdough from your local bakery or you have a loaf sitting in your kitchen, make sure it’s a day or two old. Slightly stale bread is perfect for French toast because it absorbs the egg mixture without getting too soggy.

Eggs: The Heart of the Batter

Next, we have eggs, which are the soul of any French toast recipe. You will be needing a couple of large eggs to achieve that fluffy, custardy texture. Eggs are what give French toast that golden, rich color and creaminess in the middle. If you want to take it to the next level, I highly recommend using farm-fresh eggs if you can find them—they make all the difference in flavor!

Milk: For Smooth, Rich Custard

Now, about the milk: I use full-fat milk for richness in the custard base, but you can always use a dairy-free milk alternative if vegan or lactose intolerant. You can go with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, which works really great in this recipe, and you’ll need just half a cup, but it gives French toast a soft and melt-in-your-mouth good outcome.

Vanilla Extract: Just the Right Sweetness

It goes without saying that vanilla will make this particular recipe. Adding the warm sweet smell that defines French toast is all about having this spice inside, and the recipe requires one teaspoon of nothing but pure extract to give this batter that comforting creamy smell. And please do not skip on it, since it pulls it all together by giving your French toast that extra special something.

Cinnamon: That Classic Taste of French Toast

No French toast is complete without cinnamon, and it is a real classic flavor pairing that really brings out the best in your sourdough French toast. A hint of cinnamon in your batter will make your kitchen smell amazing, plus add warmth and spice to balance the sweetness from syrup and butter. If feeling extra adventurous, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to give it that extra je ne sais quoi!

Butter: For That Golden Crisp

You just can’t have French toast without the butter; that’s what gives it that golden crisp on the edges. I use unsalted butter because it does not overpower any of the flavors, leaving a taste not too salty. Make sure you set it in a very hot pan to get that crispy exterior. That is the secret behind the crunchiness that makes sourdough French toast so addictive!

Sourdough French Toast Toppings: Sweeten the Deal

When your sourdough French toast is done cooking, now is the time to get creative with toppings. I especially love drizzling a generous amount of maple syrup on top, but fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even bananas do their magic. And finally, powdered sugar is always the cherry on top, unless you’re going all out—whipped cream and dollops of yogurt, in which case, anything goes!

There you have it—your list of ingredients for perfect sourdough French toast. These modest ingredients combine into something that’s delicious, comforting, and just a little bit indulgent. It’s the kind of breakfast you’ll want to make every weekend—or every day, no judgment! Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! 😄

Sourdough French Toast: A Step-by-Step Recipe

After saying why sourdough bread is the best for the task and gathering all ingredients, now is the time to cook! I am super excited to be sharing this ridiculously easy, absolutely foolproof, step-by-step recipe that will have you flipping golden, crispy, and just-plain irresistible sourdough French toast in no time. Grab your ingredients, heat up your pan, and let the magic begin!

Step 1: Whisk the Egg Mixture

The heart of the recipe is, of course, the batter. Crack your eggs into a bowl and whisk them up until they get all frothy. The fluffier the eggs, the fluffier your French toast will be, so give it a good whisk. Then, add your milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon (and any other spices you’re feeling adventurous with), and a pinch of salt. The vanilla will make your whole kitchen smell like heaven, and the cinnamon will add that classic warmth. Mix everything well until it’s smooth and well-combined. This is the custard base that will turn your sourdough into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.

Step 2: Prep Your Sourdough Bread

Next up: your sourdough bread! Slice your loaf into thick slices, about 3/4 to 1-inch thick. This will be the right thickness to be able to handle the batter and not fall apart. If it is a bit stale, as I said—ideal, then it will take the batter really well without turning too soggy. If you’re using fresh bread, just give it a minute or two to dry out a little bit, and you’ll be good to go.

Step 3: Heat Your Pan or Griddle

Get out a big pan or griddle and heat it at a medium-high temperature, adding a tablespoon or two of unsalted butter or oil if you like. You know the pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles upon contact. I love making it in a cast-iron skillet for that crispy edge, but any pan will work. Your pan should be hot to receive your pancake batter to bake perfectly golden brown.

Step 4: Dip and Coat the Bread

Now, the fun part, actually dipping the bread! Dip each slice of sourdough bread into the egg mixture, first on one side, then on the other. Just dip; don’t coddle, or you could end up with soggy bread. Just dip it in quickly, and it’s ready to go. Transfer the bread carefully to the skillet, shaking off excess batter.

Step 5: Cook Sourdough French Toast Until Done

Place the bread on your hot pan once coated. Let each side cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Of course, if you like it more crispy, don’t be afraid to cook it a little longer, until that perfect golden color. You should hear that good sizzle once it starts cooking—trust me, it’s music to my ears!

Step 6: Sourdough French Toast: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your sourdough French toast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate. Now, the fun really begins! Drizzle with maple syrup, load up with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, and finish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy. You could even top it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt if you really wanted to go wild. And the best part is digging in, savoring that crunchy, fluffy, and tangy-sweet morsel of heaven.

And there you have it: perfect sourdough French toast, step by step! Just with these couple of easy ingredients and steps, and you’re good to go, treating yourself to the best breakfast in town. Get ready for a breakfast envied by all, because others surely will be jealous of how good your morning just became. 😊

Let me know how it goes, or if you have any questions—I’m always here to help with your next kitchen adventure! 🍽️✨

Tips and Tricks for the Best Sourdough French Toast

Alright, let’s make this French toast absolutely unforgettable! These tips and tricks will elevate your sourdough French toast game and leave everyone asking for seconds (or thirds)! Whether you’re a French toast pro or a beginner, these little hacks will make all the difference.

Use Thick Slices of Sourdough

Remember how I mentioned slicing your sourdough bread to about 3/4 to 1-inch thick? That’s not just for looks—thicker slices give your French toast the perfect balance of crispy outside and soft, fluffy inside. Thin slices will just get soggy too fast, and we’re all about that crunch!

Let the Sourdough Bread Dry Out a Bit

If your sourdough is fresh (not stale), it can get too mushy if you dip it right away. But don’t worry, there’s an easy fix! Just give your bread a little time to dry out. Lay the slices on a tray and let them sit for a few minutes before dipping them in the egg mixture. This helps the bread absorb the custard without turning into a soggy mess. If you’re using stale bread, you’re golden! It will soak up the egg mixture just right.

Whisk Like a Pro

The secret to fluffy French toast is all in the egg mixture. When you’re whisking those eggs, don’t just give them a little stir—whisk them until they’re frothy and bubbly. The fluffier the eggs, the fluffier the French toast! This adds air to the batter and ensures your toast is light and tender. So get your arms moving and really give it a good whisk!

Add a Pinch of Salt and Spice It Up

Salt in your French toast batter? Yes, you heard me! A pinch of salt helps bring out the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly. And don’t stop at just vanilla and cinnamon—feel free to get creative! Nutmeg, cardamom, or even a touch of allspice can add a unique twist. Spice it up and make it your own!

Don’t Skip the Butter

If you’re using oil to grease the pan, that’s great! But trust me, a little butter makes a huge difference. It adds richness and a golden-brown crispy texture that’s hard to beat. Plus, the butter enhances the flavor, giving your French toast that indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth feel. Just make sure to keep an eye on the heat—too much butter can burn, so add a little at a time.

The Pan Temperature Is The Key to Master Sourdough French Toast

The temperature of your pan is CRUCIAL. Too hot and the outside will burn before the inside is cooked. Too cool, and your French toast will soak up too much oil and be soggy. You want a perfectly hot pan—medium-high heat works wonders. If a drop of water sizzles when it hits the pan, you’re good to go!

Flip With Confidence

When it comes time to flip your French toast, don’t be shy! Let the bread cook on one side until it’s golden brown and crispy, and then flip it with confidence. You’ll know it’s ready when it releases easily from the pan, without sticking. If you’ve got a little golden crust forming, you’re on the right track!

Serve Immediately for Maximum Crispiness

The best French toast is fresh off the griddle, so try to serve it right away! If you’re making a big batch, pop it into a warm oven (around 200°F) to keep it warm without losing that crispy texture. But trust me, you won’t want to wait long to dig in—it’s too delicious!

Go Wild With Toppings

Now comes the fun part: toppings! Maple syrup is a classic, but feel free to get creative with your additions. Fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream will take your French toast over the top. For something extra indulgent, try a drizzle of Nutella or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless, and this is where you can really let your imagination run wild!

Why Sourdough French Toast Is the Only Breakfast You’ll Ever Need

Okay, let me just let you in on a little secret: sourdough French toast is absolutely, positively, without one ounce of doubt the best way to start your day—officially. And if you have not tried it, well, let me tell you, it’s about time. And if you do, well, you probably already know there’s just something magical about the combination of sourdough bread and that perfectly cooked custard. But let’s dive a little deeper into why this breakfast is seriously worth making your go-to.

It’s Incredibly Flavorful

First of all, sourdough bread brings a tangy, slightly earthy flavor to the table that other breads just can’t match. That sourness, when dipped in the egg mixture, morphs into a warm, delicious bite that perfectly balances with the sweetness of cinnamon and vanilla. Like this was what the bread and custard were born to do: go together. Every bite was an explosion of flavor; never boring. There’s no need to drown it in syrup, but feel free to do so anyway; the sourdough stands up and makes its own delicious statement.

The Texture Is Unreal

Let’s talk about texture because that’s where sourdough really shines. You know that perfect balance of crispy on the outside and soft and custardy on the inside? That’s the dream, right? Well, sourdough bread makes it so much easier to achieve. It holds up wonderfully in the egg mixture, without getting soggy, and absorbs just enough of the custard to stay soft but never mushy. The outside gets that gorgeous golden brown crunch, while inside, it is tender and pillowy. Texture-wise, this is like a hug in every single bite.

It’s Perfect for Any Time of Day

Well, yeah, French toast is, by nature, a breakfast food, but who says you can’t have it any time you like? Sourdough French toast is great for breakfast, yes, but it works great for a fantastic brunch option, a cozy lunch on a lazy weekend, or even an indulgent dinner because, why not? It’s versatile, satisfying, and can be topped with pretty much anything you have lying around. You can go sweet with maple syrup and berries or savory with crispy bacon and a fried egg on top. Really, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!

Super Satisfying

It does, but, sourdough French toast really has a certain taste and an appealing texture; this hearty and chewy bread just gives in at the perfect level to help fill you full but not at all heavy. From fuel for an active day to a Sunday morning treat, sourdough French toast really balances comfort food and nutrition all in one convenient dish.

Easy to Make But Feels Like a Special Treat

What really makes sourdough French toast great is its ease, even while being somewhat special. There are no rare ingredients or excessive preparations needed; just a couple of staples you probably have lying around in the pantry, and voilà! Yet once you present golden-brown crunchiness, one feels they’re having something more than just okay. It’s the perfect treat without having to break a sweat in the kitchen.

Sourdough Is Actually Good for You

Okay, I know—French toast is a treat, and we’re not trying to pretend it’s a superfood. But did you know that sourdough bread actually has a few health benefits that other breads don’t? For one thing, sourdough is naturally fermented, meaning it’s way easier to digest and is often lower in gluten than regular bread. Plus, the fermentation process creates beneficial bacteria (hello, probiotics!) that can support gut health. So, while it’s a delicious indulgence, you’re also getting a little bonus of digestive goodness.

It’s an Instant Crowd-Pleaser

But let’s get real, sourdough French toast isn’t just great—it’s a showstopper. Whether it be for the family breakfast, brunch with friends, or even a nice treat, this dish always impresses. It looks impressive, smells divine, and tastes like a million bucks. You will have people saying, “How did you make this?!”, to which you can smile and say, “It’s easier than you think!”

Sourdough French Toast: Bring the Flavor of France to Your Kitchen

So there you have it! Sourdough French toast is the perfect combination of crunchy, tender, tangy, and sweet – all wrapped up in a simple, easy-to-make recipe. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend morning or impressing guests at brunch, this dish is bound to be a showstopper. It’s hearty enough to fill you up without weighing you down, and versatile enough to work any time of day. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to breakfast for good reason.

Bonne Appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sourdough French Toast

1. Can I use fresh sourdough bread for French toast? Yes! Fresh sourdough works just fine; just let it dry out a bit before dipping to prevent sogginess.

2. Can I make sourdough French toast in advance? Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to eat!

3. Can I make sourdough French toast without eggs? Absolutely! You can make a vegan version by substituting eggs with a plant-based egg replacer, like flaxseed meal or silken tofu.

4. How do I make sourdough French toast extra crispy? Cook it a little longer on each side, or use a cast-iron skillet for that perfect crispy edge!

5. Can I freeze sourdough French toast? Yes, you can freeze it! Just freeze individual slices and reheat them in the toaster or oven when you’re ready to enjoy.

6. What toppings go best with sourdough French toast? Toppings are endless! Go sweet with maple syrup and fresh fruit, or savory with crispy bacon, avocado, and a fried egg.

7. Can I make sourdough French toast without cinnamon? Yes, you can skip the cinnamon if it’s not your thing, or try experimenting with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a twist.