For a breakfast that combines simplicity, indulgence, and a touch of sophistication, Sourdough French Toast is the perfect choice. In under 20 minutes, you can prepare a delicious meal that transforms the classic French toast into something extraordinary. This recipe uses sourdough bread to create the ideal balance between a crispy outer crust and a soft, custardy interior, making each bite an irresistible delight.
What sets this recipe apart is the use of sourdough bread. Sourdough’s dense, tangy texture holds up wonderfully when soaked in the egg mixture, creating a heartier, more flavorful French toast than what you might get with regular white bread. Whether you’re looking for a filling breakfast, a sweet brunch treat, or a simple snack, this Sourdough French Toast has you covered.
Why You Will Love Sourdough French Toast Recipe
There are many reasons why Sourdough French Toast is a beloved breakfast staple. From its delightful textures to its versatility, this recipe promises to become a favorite for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
A Perfect Contrast of Crisp and Soft
The beauty of French toast lies in its contrast of textures. When prepared with sourdough bread, this recipe offers a satisfying crunch on the outside, thanks to the bread’s hearty, crusty texture. The interior, however, remains soft and custardy, thanks to the egg mixture that soaks into the bread. This combination of crispy and tender makes each bite of Sourdough French Toast a delight to the senses.
Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely morning or hosting a brunch gathering, this French Toast with Sourdough Bread can adapt to fit any occasion. It can easily be dressed up with sweet or savory toppings or enjoyed plain with just a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve it as a quick breakfast, a mid-morning snack, or even a light dessert after dinner. Its flexibility makes it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire, ensuring you’ll never get bored of the same old options.
Reduce Food Waste with Leftover Sourdough Bread
One of the best ways to minimize food waste is to creatively repurpose ingredients that might otherwise be tossed. Sourdough bread, especially when it’s a few days old, is perfect for making French toast. Instead of throwing out that leftover loaf, use it to make this dish—giving new life to bread that’s past its prime. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also provides you with a delicious meal that requires very little effort.
Sourdough Bread Holds Up Better Than Other Breads
When it comes to French toast, the type of bread you use is crucial. Sourdough bread stands out because of its firm, chewy texture, which allows it to absorb the egg mixture without falling apart. Other breads might become overly soggy or mushy when soaked in the custard, but sourdough maintains its shape and texture, resulting in a more satisfying, robust French toast.
A Filling and Nutritious Meal
While Sourdough French Toast is undeniably indulgent, it can also be surprisingly nutritious. Sourdough, due to its fermentation process, contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health. Additionally, the egg and milk in the recipe provide a good source of protein and calcium, making this dish not only delicious but also filling and nutritious. Whether you’re starting your day or need a midday pick-me-up, this recipe will leave you satisfied.
Sourdough French Toast Ingredient
Each ingredient in this Sourdough French Toast recipe plays an important role in delivering flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients:
Sourdough
Sourdough is the star of this recipe, offering more than just a tangy taste. Its natural fermentation process results in bread that contains prebiotics, which are beneficial for digestive health. The combination of these prebiotics and the lower glycemic index of sourdough may also help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a healthier option than many other types of bread. The dense texture of sourdough ensures that it holds up well when soaked in the egg mixture, absorbing just the right amount of custard to produce the perfect French toast.
Eggs
Eggs are an essential ingredient in the custard mixture that gives French toast its rich, velvety texture. It’s best to use large, free-range eggs in this recipe for the best flavor and texture. Free-range eggs typically have a more vibrant yolk and a richer taste than conventionally raised eggs. They also tend to be higher in omega-3 fatty acids, making them a healthier choice for this recipe.
Milk
Milk is the liquid base for the egg custard and helps create a smooth, creamy consistency. Whole milk is recommended for its richness, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can opt for low-fat milk. Alternatively, if you’re following a plant-based diet, there are many non-dairy milk options, such as almond, soy, or oat milk, that will work just as well, providing a similar texture and flavor.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds a subtle depth of sweetness to the custard mixture. Unlike white sugar, brown sugar contains molasses, which gives it a more complex flavor. For this recipe, 2 tablespoons (about 25 grams) of brown sugar will provide just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors in the dish. Brown sugar also helps caramelize the crust of the French toast, giving it that golden-brown finish.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the egg mixture. It’s a key ingredient that elevates the overall flavor profile of the French toast, adding a subtle but deliciously sweet note. For the best results, use pure vanilla extract rather than imitation vanilla, as it provides a more authentic and potent flavor.
Butter
Butter is essential for cooking French toast and ensuring a crispy, golden-brown crust. Unsalted butter is recommended, as it gives you better control over the amount of salt in the recipe. The richness of the butter also enhances the flavor and texture of the dish, contributing to the indulgence that makes French toast such a beloved treat.
Variations
While this Sourdough French Toast recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. Here are some variations and topping ideas to consider:
Sweet Options
- Berries and Powdered Sugar: Top your French toast with fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, and dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish.
- Peanut Butter & Jelly: For a nostalgic twist, spread peanut butter and your favorite jam on the French toast, making for a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Sliced Fruit with Honey: Add a fresh and light touch by topping your French toast with sliced fruit like bananas, peaches, or apples, drizzled with honey for extra sweetness.
- Lemon Curd and Whipped Cream: Indulge in a decadent treat by adding creamy lemon curd and a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a citrusy, indulgent finish.
- Peaches and Cream: Sliced peaches paired with sweetened cream create a classic, rich topping that complements the tangy sourdough.
Savory Options
- Bacon: For a savory-sweet combo, add crispy bacon on top of your French toast. The saltiness of the bacon pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the toast.
- Cream Cheese and Smoked Salmon: Elevate your French toast with cream cheese and smoked salmon, perfect for brunch or a more sophisticated breakfast.
- Ham and Swiss Cheese: A hearty option that transforms French toast into a savory sandwich. Layer slices of ham and melted Swiss cheese between two pieces of French toast for a filling meal.
- Avocado and Tomato: For a healthier, savory twist, top your French toast with creamy avocado and fresh tomato slices, adding a touch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Adults-Only Option
- Citrus Zest and Liqueur: For an adults-only variation, incorporate citrus zest (such as lemon or orange) into the batter for added fragrance. After cooking, drizzle the French toast with a splash of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or amaretto, for a sophisticated touch.
Dietary Modifications
This Sourdough French Toast recipe can be easily adapted to meet various dietary requirements without sacrificing flavor.
Dairy-Free
For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk with a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Instead of butter, you can use coconut oil for cooking, which adds a subtle tropical flavor and ensures the toast stays crisp.
Gluten-Free
If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap the sourdough bread with gluten-free sourdough bread, which is available at many specialty stores. Just make sure all other ingredients, such as milk and sugar, are gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free breakfast.
Sourdough French Toast Recipe Instructions
Making Sourdough French Toast is easy and straightforward. Simply follow these easy steps to achieve flawless results every time:
- Preheat your oven to 195ºF (95ºC) to keep the French toast warm while you cook the remaining slices.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and milk until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture into a shallow pan large enough to fit your slices of bread.
- Submerge each slice of sourdough bread into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are completely covered. Let the bread soak for a few seconds to fully absorb the mixture.
- Place a skillet over medium heat and melt a bit of butter in it. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the soaked bread slices.
- Cook the bread for about 3 minutes per side or until each side is golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked French toast to the preheated oven to keep warm while you finish cooking the remaining slices.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Day-Old Bread: Sourdough bread that is a day or two old works best for French toast, as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
- Soak the Bread: Make sure the bread is thoroughly soaked but not overly saturated. You want it to absorb enough custard to be soft inside while maintaining its structure on the outside.
- Watch the Skillet Temperature: It’s important to cook the French toast over medium heat. Too high, and the bread will burn before it cooks through; too low, and the texture won’t be crispy.
Serving Suggestions
For the perfect breakfast or brunch, serve your Sourdough French Toast with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, and a handful of fresh fruit. You can also explore the variations mentioned earlier, such as raspberry compote or a spoonful of your favorite jam, for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs
Why is sourdough good for French toast?
Sourdough’s sturdy texture allows it to absorb the custard without falling apart, while its tangy flavor adds a unique twist to the traditional French toast.
What makes French toast French toast?
French toast is made by soaking slices of bread in an egg-based mixture and then frying them. The egg mixture typically includes ingredients like milk, sugar, vanilla, and spices, creating a custardy texture inside the bread.
Can sourdough French toast be frozen?
Yes! After cooking, let the French toast cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in a toaster or oven for a quick and easy breakfast.
Why is sourdough bread good for you?
Sourdough is rich in prebiotics, which promotes gut health, and its lower glycemic index can help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, the fermentation process makes the nutrients in sourdough more bioavailable.
Conclusion
The Sourdough French Toast recipe is an easy, delicious, and versatile way to elevate your breakfast game. Whether you’re serving it sweet or savory, this dish is sure to satisfy. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation time, and endless variations, it’s no wonder that French Toast with Sourdough Bread has become a beloved breakfast classic. Try it today and discover your new favorite way to enjoy French toast!