1. Can I use fresh sourdough bread?

Yes, but slightly stale sourdough works best. Fresh bread may become too soft and soggy when dipped in the custard. If you only have fresh sourdough, lightly toast it or leave it out for a few hours to dry.

2. What’s the best way to avoid soggy French toast?

Use day-old or slightly dry sourdough bread. Avoid oversoaking the bread in the custard mixture—dip it quickly to coat both sides evenly. Cook on medium-low heat to allow the bread to cook through without burning the surface.

3. Can I make sourdough French toast ahead of time?

Yes! Here’s how: To Reheat: Cook the toast as directed, then refrigerate or freeze it. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until warm and crisp. Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the custard the night before and store it in the fridge. Dip and cook the toast fresh in the morning.

4. Are there gluten-free or vegan options?

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sourdough bread, available at most health food stores. Vegan: Replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine.

5. Can I use other bread types for this recipe?

While sourdough adds a unique tangy flavor and hearty texture, you can also use brioche, challah, or French baguette for a softer, sweeter alternative.

Sourdough French Toast That Will Make You Smile

Description

Indulge in delicious sourdough French toast, topped with fresh berries and maple syrup—perfect for a cozy breakfast or weekend brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Custard Base:

3 large eggs – The foundation for a rich and creamy custard.
¾ cup milk – Whole milk works best, but feel free to use your favorite dairy or plant-based alternative.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and sweetness to the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – A cozy touch of spice that complements the sourdough beautifully.
1 tablespoon sugar – Just enough to lightly sweeten the toast (optional, depending on your taste).

For the Sourdough French Toast:

6 slices of sourdough bread – Slightly stale or day-old bread is ideal for soaking up the custard without becoming soggy. Thick slices (¾ to 1 inch) are recommended for the perfect texture.
2 tablespoons butter – For cooking the toast to a golden-brown perfection.

Optional Toppings:

Maple syrup – A classic choice for drizzling over your toast.
Fresh berries – Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of color and flavor.
Powdered sugar – A light dusting for that café-style finishing touch.
Whipped cream – Indulge with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a special treat.
Nuts – Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a delightful crunch.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth.
Make sure the mixture is well-combined—this is the custard base that will coat your bread, so you want it fully blended for even flavor.

2. Preheat the Skillet

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a generous amount of butter (about 1 tablespoon).
Let the butter melt and bubble slightly, but avoid letting it brown too much. You want just enough butter to coat the pan for a golden crisp without it becoming greasy.

3. Soak the Sourdough

Dip each slice of sourdough bread into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides well.
Allow the bread to soak for just a few seconds on each side—don’t let it sit too long or it might get soggy. The goal is for the bread to absorb the custard without becoming too mushy.

4. Cook to Perfection

Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet.
Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy. You should hear a nice sizzle as the bread cooks—this is a good sign!
If you’re cooking multiple slices, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to ensure each slice gets the crispy texture you’re aiming for.

5. Flip and Finish

When the first side is perfectly golden, carefully flip the bread using a spatula. The second side should cook just as quickly, creating a beautiful, crispy crust on both sides.
Once both sides are golden and crisp, remove the French toast from the skillet and set it on a plate.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Sourdough French Toast warm with your choice of toppings—maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream are always crowd-pleasers.
For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top for a sweet finish.

Notes

Bread: For best results, use slightly stale or day-old sourdough bread to ensure the custard soaks in without becoming too soggy.
Cooking Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the toast in batches to ensure even crisping and a golden-brown finish.
Toppings: Customize your French toast with your favorite toppings—think maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Dietary Variations: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free sourdough bread. For vegan French toast, substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture and plant-based milk.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 350 Per Serving
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: Sourdough French Toast, French Toast, Breakfast Recipes, Brunch Ideas