Sourdough French Toast Recipes: A Complete Guide to Perfect Breakfast Bliss

Why Sourdough is Perfect for French Toast

Sourdough bread stands out when it comes to sourdough French toast recipes. Its tangy flavor and firm texture make it ideal for soaking up the creamy custard mixture while maintaining a hearty structure. Unlike softer breads, sourdough provides a delightful contrast of crispy edges and a tender center when cooked.

For more on the benefits of sourdough bread, visit Healthline’s guide on sourdough bread. Additionally, you can explore how sourdough’s fermentation process contributes to gut health through resources like BBC Good Food.

Key Features of Sourdough Bread for French Toast

• Firm Crust: Retains texture during cooking.
• Tangy Flavor: Adds a unique depth to the recipe.
• Natural Fermentation: This may improve digestion for some individuals.

How to Make the Perfect Custard for Sourdough French Toast

The custard is the heart of any French toast recipe. Here’s how to create a perfectly balanced mixture:

Essential Ingredients:

1. Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
2. Milk or Cream: Adds creaminess; use whole milk or heavy cream for a richer flavor.
3. Sugar: Adjust to your preferred sweetness.
4. Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg enhance flavor.
5. Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth.

Step-by-Step Custard Preparation:

1. Whisk eggs until frothy.
2. Add milk, cream, sugar, and spices. Mix thoroughly.
3. Incorporate vanilla extract for a finishing touch.

For those who prefer dairy-free alternatives, almond milk or coconut milk works equally well.

Pro Tips for the Best Custard:

• Use room-temperature eggs for better blending.
• Strain the mixture to remove lumps for an ultra-smooth consistency.
• Let the custard sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Sourdough French Toast Recipes to Try

1. Classic Sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter for cooking

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter.
3. Dip each slice of sourdough into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 20 seconds per side.
4. Place bread on the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. Serve with maple syrup and fresh berries.

Variations:

• Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
• Sprinkle powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

2. Savory Sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon chopped chives
• Butter or olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, Parmesan, and chives.
2. Heat a skillet and add butter or olive oil.
3. Dip sourdough slices into the mixture, ensuring even coverage.
4. Cook until golden and crispy on both sides.
5. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and smoked salmon.

Pairings:

• Serve alongside a green salad for brunch.
• Add avocado slices for extra richness.

3. Cinnamon Roll-Inspired Sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Butter for cooking

Instructions:

1. Prepare custard with eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Heat a skillet and melt butter.
3. Dip sourdough slices and cook until golden brown.
4. Drizzle with cream cheese glaze.

4. Caramelized Banana Sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter for cooking
• 2 bananas, sliced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Whisk eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla to make the custard.
2. Dip sourdough slices in the custard mixture and set aside.
3. Heat butter in a skillet and cook the soaked bread until golden on both sides.
4. In the same skillet, caramelize banana slices with brown sugar until soft and golden.
5. Serve French toast topped with caramelized bananas and a drizzle of maple syrup.

5. Almond-crusted sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• Butter for cooking

Instructions:

1. Make a custard with eggs, milk, sugar, and almond extract.
2. Dip sourdough slices in the custard, then coat each slice with sliced almonds.
3. Cook in a buttered skillet until almonds are toasted and the bread is golden.
4. Serve with powdered sugar and fresh fruit.

6. Berry-Infused Sourdough French Toast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of sourdough bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Layer sourdough cubes and mixed berries in the dish.
3. Whisk eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla to make custard.
4. Pour custard over the bread and berries, pressing gently to soak.
5. Drizzle maple syrup on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.

7. Chocolate Hazelnut Sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
• Butter for cooking

Instructions:

1. Spread chocolate hazelnut spread on one side of each bread slice.
2. Make custard with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla.
3. Dip bread slices in the custard, ensuring an even coating.
4. Cook in a buttered skillet until golden and warm.
5. Serve with whipped cream and chopped hazelnuts.

8. Pumpkin Spice Sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice blend
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Butter for cooking

Instructions:

1. Whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and sugar.
2. Dip bread slices in the mixture and cook in a buttered skillet until golden brown.
3. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

9. Lemon Ricotta Sourdough French Toast

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• Butter for cooking

Instructions:

1. Mix eggs, milk, sugar, and lemon zest to prepare the custard.
2. Spread ricotta cheese onto each slice of sourdough bread.
3. Dip the ricotta-topped slices into the custard mixture.
4. Cook in a buttered skillet until golden and fluffy.
5. Serve with a drizzle of honey and extra lemon zest.

Elevating Your French Toast with Toppings

Enhance your sourdough French toast recipes with a variety of toppings. Here are some delicious ideas to try:

Sweet Toppings:

• Fresh Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries add freshness.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it balances the tanginess of sourdough.
• Maple Syrup: A classic choice for its rich and sweet flavor.
• Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter adds a creamy and nutty dimension.
• Chocolate Chips: Perfect for dessert-style French toast.

Savory Toppings:

• Fried Eggs: A runny yolk pairs beautifully with savory French toast.
• Avocado Slices: Adds creaminess and a healthy twist.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of feta or Parmesan creates a savory delight.
• Salsa and Sour Cream: Ideal for a Mexican-inspired twist.

Pairing Sourdough French Toast with Beverages

The perfect beverage can elevate your breakfast experience. Consider these options:

Coffee and Tea:

• A robust black coffee complements the tangy flavor of sourdough.
• Chai tea adds a spicy and aromatic touch.

Juices and Smoothies:

• Freshly squeezed orange juice pairs well with sweet French toast.
• A green smoothie balances the richness of the dish.

Specialty Drinks:

• A mimosa for a celebratory brunch.
• Hot chocolate for a cozy morning treat.

Creative Twists on Sourdough French Toast

Explore unique variations to impress your family and guests:

Stuffed French Toast:

• Fill two slices of sourdough with cream cheese and jam before dipping in custard.
• Cook as usual and dust with powdered sugar.

French Toast Bake:

• Layer sourdough slices in a baking dish.
• Pour custard over and let soak overnight.
• Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes.

Vegan Sourdough French Toast:

• Substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
• Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
• Add nutritional yeast for a savory touch.

Tropical Coconut Sourdough French Toast:

• Use coconut milk in the custard and top with toasted coconut flakes.
• Add diced mango and a drizzle of honey for a tropical flair.

Tips to Prevent Soggy French Toast

Soggy French toast is a common issue but easily be avoided with these tips:

• Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale sourdough absorbs custard without falling apart.
• Control Soaking Time: Over-soaking leads to sogginess.
• Cook Over Medium Heat: Ensures thorough cooking without burning.

For more techniques, see The Kitchn’s guide on French toast perfection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does sourdough bread make good toast?

Yes, sourdough’s texture and flavor make it excellent for toast, including French toast.

What type of bread is best for French toast?

Sourdough, brioche, and challah are top choices due to their density and flavor.

Is brioche or sourdough better for French toast?

Brioche offers sweetness and softness, while sourdough provides a tangy flavor and firmer texture. It depends on your preference.

What is the trick to not soggy French toast?

Use stale bread, avoid over-soaking, and cook on medium heat to ensure a perfect texture.