Best Sourdough French Toast Recipe: Crispy, Fluffy & Delicious

1. Introduction to Sourdough French Toast

1.1 What Makes Sourdough French Toast So Special?

French toast is a breakfast classic, but when made with sourdough bread, it takes on a whole new level of flavor and texture. The tangy, chewy sourdough adds depth to the dish, balancing perfectly with the rich, spiced custard and crispy, golden-brown crust. Unlike regular white bread, sourdough french toast has a slightly firmer structure, ensuring it soaks up just the right amount of egg mixture without turning soggy.

This dish is not only indulgent but also nutritious. Thanks to the natural fermentation process, sourdough bread is easier to digest and contains beneficial probiotics. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings, from fresh berries and maple syrup to nut butter and granola. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch or prepping breakfast ahead of time, this sourdough french toast recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

1.2 A Brief History of French Toast and the Sourdough Twist

French toast, also known as pain perdu (meaning “lost bread”), dates back centuries as a way to use up stale bread. The idea was simple: soak the bread in an egg and milk mixture, then fry it to create a rich, custardy interior with a crisp exterior. Traditionally, white or brioche bread is used, but sourdough adds a unique twist, offering a slightly tangy contrast to the sweetness of the custard.

Using sourdough bread for French toast isn’t just a trend—it’s a way to make the dish more flavorful, hearty, and nutritious. Its dense texture allows it to absorb the egg mixture beautifully, and its natural sourness balances out the sweetness from the toppings. Whether you prefer classic maple syrup or a more adventurous topping like yogurt and nuts, this dish adapts effortlessly to any flavor combination.

2. Choosing the Best Sourdough Bread and Essential Ingredients

2.1 Selecting the Perfect Sourdough Bread

The key to making outstanding sourdough french toast starts with choosing the right bread. Unlike traditional white bread or brioche, sourdough has a firmer structure and a slightly tangy flavor, making it ideal for absorbing the egg custard without falling apart. Here’s what to look for when selecting your loaf:

Texture: Choose a loaf with a firm crust and an airy yet sturdy crumb. This ensures the bread holds up well when soaked in the custard.
Slightly Stale Bread Works Best: Freshly baked sourdough is great for sandwiches but can be too soft for French toast. A day or two old loaf is ideal since it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy. If you only have fresh bread, lightly toast the slices before dipping them in the egg mixture.
Whole Wheat vs. White Sourdough: Both work well, but white sourdough gives a slightly lighter texture, while whole wheat sourdough offers extra fiber and nutrients.

2.2 The Essential Ingredients for Sourdough French Toast

Now that you have the perfect bread, let’s talk about the other ingredients that make this dish so flavorful.

The Egg Custard Mixture

This is the heart of sourdough french toast, responsible for giving the bread its rich, creamy texture. Here’s what you need:

Eggs: The base of the custard—use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best results.
Milk or Cream: Whole milk adds richness, but you can use half-and-half for a creamier texture. Dairy-free options like almond or oat milk also work.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the warm, sweet aroma of the French toast.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices add depth and warmth, making each bite even more flavorful.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
Sweetener (Optional): A drizzle of maple syrup or a teaspoon of honey in the egg mixture adds a natural hint of sweetness.

Butter and Cooking Oils

Butter gives sourdough french toast its golden-brown crust, but it can burn easily. Consider using a mix of butter and neutral oil (such as coconut or avocado oil) for the perfect balance of flavor and crispiness.

Looking for a nutritious breakfast alternative? Try these Banana Protein Pancakes—a protein-packed way to start your morning!

2.3 Toppings and Flavor Enhancements

Once your sourdough french toast is cooked, it’s time to dress it up! Here are some delicious topping ideas:

Classic Maple Syrup: The go-to choice for a naturally sweet and rich finish.
Fresh Fruits: Berries, bananas, or sliced apples add a refreshing contrast.
Powdered Sugar: A light dusting creates a bakery-style presentation.
Greek Yogurt or Nut Butter: For added protein and creaminess.
Chopped Nuts: Adds crunch and extra nutrition.
Coconut Flakes or Dark Chocolate Shavings: A gourmet twist that elevates your dish.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sourdough French Toast

Now that we’ve covered the best ingredients, it’s time to put everything together! Follow this detailed, step-by-step process to create perfectly golden and flavorful sourdough french toast.

3.1 Preparing the Sourdough Bread

Before you start cooking, prepare your sourdough slices properly to ensure they soak up the custard without turning mushy.

Step 1: Slice the Bread
- Using a sharp bread knife, cut your sourdough loaf into slices about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Thicker slices hold their structure better and create a soft, custardy inside while keeping a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Dry Out Fresh Bread (If Necessary)
- If your sourdough is very fresh, dry the slices slightly. Place them in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes or let them sit out uncovered for a few hours. This helps the bread absorb the custard more effectively.

3.2 Mixing the Egg Custard

The custard mixture is what makes French toast rich, creamy, and flavorful.

Step 1: Crack the Eggs
- In a large mixing bowl, crack 4 large eggs.
Step 2: Add the Milk and Flavorings
- Pour in 1 cup of whole milk (or dairy-free alternative).
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon for warmth and depth of flavor.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- If you like extra sweetness, mix in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey.
Step 3: Whisk Until Smooth
- Use a whisk to beat the mixture until it’s completely blended and slightly frothy. This ensures even coating on the sourdough slices.

3.3 Soaking the Sourdough

The soaking process is key to getting the right texture.

Step 1: Dip the Bread Slices
- Place a slice of sourdough into the custard mixture. Let it soak for 30–45 seconds per side. This allows enough absorption without making the bread soggy.
Step 2: Drain Excess Custard
- Gently lift the bread from the mixture and let the excess drip off before placing it on a plate. Repeat with all slices.
- Want more breakfast inspiration? Check out these Mini Pancakes—they’re perfect for a fun, bite-sized morning treat!

3.4 Cooking to Golden Perfection

A well-heated pan and the right amount of butter are crucial to getting crispy, caramelized sourdough french toast.

Step 1: Preheat Your Pan or Griddle
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Step 2: Add Butter and Oil
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and ½ tablespoon of neutral oil (like coconut or avocado oil) in the pan. The oil prevents the butter from burning while still adding flavor.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
- Place the soaked bread in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Flip carefully using a spatula, making sure the toast gets a crispy crust without burning.
Step 4: Keep Warm While Cooking in Batches
- If cooking multiple slices, keep finished pieces warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven while finishing the rest.

4. Plating, Serving, and Creative Topping Ideas

Now that your sourdough french toast is golden and crispy, it’s time to plate it beautifully and add the perfect toppings. A well-presented dish enhances the overall experience, making your breakfast feel like a gourmet meal.

4.1 Plating Techniques for a Beautiful Presentation

The way you serve your sourdough french toast can make a big difference in how inviting it looks. Here are a few plating techniques to consider:

Stacking: Stack 2–3 slices slightly offset from each other for a visually appealing layered look.
Angled Presentation: Cut each slice diagonally and arrange them in a fan shape on the plate.
Rustic Style: Place slices on a wooden cutting board with toppings casually scattered around for a relaxed, café-style aesthetic.
Dusting with Powdered Sugar: Use a fine mesh sieve to lightly dust powdered sugar over the toast for an elegant finish.

Want to try something different? Make a Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast for a decadent breakfast!

4.2 Classic and Creative Topping Ideas

Toppings can take your sourdough french toast from simple to spectacular. Here are some delicious options:

Classic Toppings:

Maple Syrup: The go-to choice for a naturally sweet, rich flavor.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries add a refreshing contrast.
Powdered Sugar: A light dusting enhances both sweetness and presentation.
Butter: A pat of melted butter on top adds a rich, creamy touch.

Nutritious and Gourmet Toppings:

Greek Yogurt or Ricotta: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with fruit.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts provide crunch and extra nutrition.
Nut Butter: Drizzle almond, cashew, or peanut butter for a protein-packed twist.
Coconut Flakes: Lightly toasted coconut adds a tropical flavor and extra texture.

Indulgent & Unique Twists:

Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle a bit of grated chocolate over warm toast for a hint of decadence.
Caramelized Bananas: Sauté banana slices in butter and brown sugar for an irresistible topping.
Homemade Fruit Compote: Simmer berries with a touch of honey or maple syrup for a naturally sweet sauce.

4.3 Pairing Sourdough French Toast with Beverages

A great beverage pairing can enhance your breakfast experience. Consider these options:

Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the toast.
Chai Latte: Spiced chai brings warmth that pairs well with cinnamon-flavored toast.
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: The acidity of citrus cuts through the richness of the dish.
Green Smoothie: A refreshing, healthy option to balance the meal.

5. Expert Tips, Common Mistakes, and Meal Prep Strategies

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of sourdough french toast, let’s dive into expert tips, mistakes to avoid, and meal prep strategies that will make this dish even more effortless and delicious.

5.1 Pro Tips for the Best Sourdough French Toast

Use Day-Old Bread for the Best Texture
- Slightly stale sourdough absorbs custard better without getting too soggy. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast it before soaking.
Whisk the Custard Thoroughly
- A well-mixed custard ensures even coating on the bread. If your mixture is too lumpy, blend it in a blender for a smoother consistency.
Let Excess Custard Drip Off
- Instead of immediately placing the soaked bread into the pan, let the excess custard drip off for a few seconds. This prevents a soggy, eggy texture.
Cook Over Medium Heat
- Cooking too hot will burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium heat allows for a golden-brown crust and a soft, custardy center.
Mix Butter with a Neutral Oil
- Butter adds rich flavor, but it burns quickly. Mixing it with a little coconut or avocado oil prevents scorching while keeping that buttery taste.
Keep Toast Warm While Cooking in Batches
- Place cooked slices in a 200°F (90°C) oven on a baking sheet while you finish cooking the rest.

Savory Twist? Try this Avocado Toast with Egg & Apples for a nutrient-packed alternative!

5.2 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can run into problems when making sourdough french toast. Here’s what to watch out for:

Soaking Bread for Too Long – More than 60 seconds can make the bread overly soft and prone to falling apart.
Cooking on High Heat – Leads to burnt edges and an uncooked center.
Not Whisking Custard Properly – Results in unevenly flavored and textured toast.
Skipping the Resting Time After Soaking – Let the excess custard drip off before frying to prevent a wet, mushy center.
Using the Wrong Type of Sourdough – Very dense sourdough or one with too many holes may not soak up the mixture evenly.

5.3 Meal Prep & Storage Strategies

Want to make sourdough french toast ahead of time? Here’s how:

Make the Custard in Advance

Whisk the egg mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.
Stir well before using, as the spices may settle.

Pre-Slice the Sourdough Bread

Slice and store in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If freezing, wrap slices individually and store for up to 3 months.

Freezing & Reheating French Toast

To Freeze:
- Allow cooked toast to cool completely.
- Place slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes before transferring to a freezer bag.
To Reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
- Toaster: Toast on medium setting until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat for 30–45 seconds, though it may not be as crispy.

6. Unique Variations of Sourdough French Toast

If you love classic sourdough french toast, why not try some creative twists? Whether you prefer a stuffed version, a savory take, or an international-inspired variation, these ideas will take your breakfast to the next level.

6.1 Stuffed Sourdough French Toast

For an indulgent upgrade, try stuffing your sourdough french toast with delicious fillings before dipping it in the custard.

Cream Cheese & Berry: Spread cream cheese and add fresh berries before sandwiching two slices together.
Peanut Butter & Banana: A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon make this even better.
Nutella & Strawberries: A chocolate-hazelnut dream with juicy strawberries.
Apple Cinnamon: Sauté diced apples with cinnamon and brown sugar, then stuff between two slices.

How to Make It:

Spread the filling evenly on one slice of sourdough.
Top with another slice, pressing down gently.
Dip the stuffed bread in the egg mixture, ensuring it’s coated on both sides.
Cook on medium heat for an extra minute per side to allow the filling to warm through.

6.2 Savory Sourdough French Toast

Who says sourdough french toast has to be sweet? These savory versions bring a whole new level of flavor.

Herbed Parmesan & Garlic: Add grated Parmesan and finely chopped garlic to the egg custard for a deliciously cheesy twist.
Avocado & Poached Egg: Serve with mashed avocado, chili flakes, and a perfectly poached egg on top.
Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese: A brunch-worthy dish with capers and fresh dill.
Spinach & Feta: Add sautéed spinach and crumbled feta for a Mediterranean-inspired bite.

How to Make It:

Omit the sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon from the custard.
Add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano).
Cook as usual, then top with your favorite savory ingredients.

6.3 International-Inspired Twists

Take your sourdough french toast on a global journey with these delicious cultural variations.

French-Style (Pain Perdu): A richer custard with extra cream and a splash of orange zest.
Mexican-Inspired (Capirotada): A spiced version with cinnamon, raisins, and a drizzle of dulce de leche.
Japanese (Shokupan Toast): Light, airy, and often topped with matcha whipped cream.
Indian (Bombay Toast): A spiced, slightly savory version made with cardamom and saffron-infused milk.

6.4 Customizing Your French Toast

Want to make sourdough french toast even more unique? Try these additions:

For Extra Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to the egg custard.
For a Holiday Twist: Try pumpkin spice in fall or peppermint extract in winter.
For Extra Crunch: Coat the soaked bread with crushed cornflakes or shredded coconut before cooking.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help you perfect your sourdough french toast, we’ve answered some of the most common questions people have about this dish. Whether you’re troubleshooting texture issues or looking for healthier alternatives, this FAQ section has got you covered.

7.1 Why is my sourdough french toast soggy?

Possible causes:
- The bread soaked in the custard for too long.
- The heat was too low, preventing a crispy crust from forming.
- The bread was too fresh and soft instead of slightly stale.
Fix it:
- Limit soaking time to 30–45 seconds per side.
- Use a medium heat setting to ensure even cooking.
- Let fresh bread dry out slightly before using.

7.2 What’s the best type of sourdough for French toast?

Best choice: A day-old sourdough loaf with a firm crust and an airy yet structured crumb. Avoid sourdough with overly large air pockets, as it won’t absorb the custard evenly.

7.3 Can I make sourdough french toast without dairy?

Yes! Simply substitute:
- Milk alternatives: Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk.
- Butter alternatives: Coconut oil, avocado oil, or dairy-free margarine.

7.4 How do I make sourdough french toast healthier?

Use whole wheat sourdough for extra fiber.
Swap regular milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk.
Reduce or eliminate added sweeteners in the custard.
Cook with coconut oil instead of butter.
Top with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit instead of syrup.

7.5 Can I freeze and reheat sourdough french toast?

Yes! Here’s how:

To Freeze:
- Let the toast cool completely.
- Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
To Reheat:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
- Toaster: Toast on a medium setting.
- Microwave: Heat for 30–45 seconds, but note that the toast won’t be as crispy.

7.6 How do I make sourdough french toast in bulk for a crowd?

Use a large griddle to cook multiple slices at once.
Keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven while finishing the rest.
Consider baking it as a French toast casserole by layering soaked bread slices in a baking dish and baking at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.

8. Conclusion – Elevate Your Breakfast Game with Sourdough French Toast

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making sourdough french toast, it’s time to put your skills to the test! This dish isn’t just a breakfast staple—it’s a gourmet experience that combines tangy, rustic bread with a creamy, spiced custard for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you enjoy it classic-style with maple syrup, stuffed with creamy fillings, or as a savory twist, the possibilities are endless.

8.1 Recap of Key Takeaways

Use day-old sourdough bread for better absorption and structure.
Whisk the custard well to ensure even coating and avoid clumps.
Don’t oversoak the bread—30–45 seconds per side is enough.
Cook on medium heat for a crispy, golden-brown crust and soft center.
Experiment with toppings—from berries and nuts to yogurt and caramelized bananas.
Try creative variations like stuffed, savory, or international-inspired French toast.
Store and freeze leftovers properly for quick, delicious breakfasts throughout the week.

8.2 Final Encouragement – Make It Your Own!

The beauty of sourdough french toast lies in its versatility and adaptability. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekend brunch, meal prepping for busy mornings, or treating yourself to an indulgent breakfast, this recipe is both easy and impressive.