Sourdough French Toast - The Stay At Home Chef

Elevate your morning routine with sourdough French toast, the perfect blend of crisp, tender, and sweet.

Few things bring comfort like a plate of golden, perfectly-cooked French toast. This rendition, using sourdough bread, offers an ideal combination of slight tanginess with the soft, eggy richness we all know and love. It’s not just about the taste; there’s also the delightful contrast of the crispy crust with the plush interior that makes sourdough French toast an absolute favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sourdough offers a distinct flavor, feel free to substitute with brioche, challah, or even whole wheat for varied textures and tastes.

Why is my French toast soggy?

Soggy French toast usually results from soaking the bread too long. It’s essential to ensure the bread is saturated but not overly drenched.

Spotlight on Sourdough

Sourdough stands out because of its fermentation process. This not only imparts the bread with a unique tangy flavor but also gives it a chewy texture. When used in French toast, sourdough holds up impressively well against the soak, ensuring you get that perfect blend of crispy exterior and soft, moist interior.

The sourdough bread you choose can significantly impact its flavor, texture, and overall experience.

Store-bought, pre-sliced sourdough is convenient and offers consistency in thickness, ensuring an even soak and cook.
Homemade sourdough allows you to control the ingredients, texture, and slice thickness.

If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, many local bakeries offer artisanal breads that combine the convenience of store-bought with the quality and authenticity of homemade.

Pairing Flavors for the Perfect Bite

Sourdough French toast serves as a canvas for a myriad of toppings. Here are some suggestions:

Acidic Fruits: Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries can cut through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast.
Sweet Add-ons: Syrups, especially maple or honey, complement the toast’s inherent sweetness, making each bite more dessert-like.

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten: Traditional sourdough contains gluten. Those sensitive or allergic might opt for gluten-free varieties available in stores.
Dairy: Milk can be substituted with a plant-based milk alternative for those lactose intolerant or looking for vegan options.
Eggs: Critical for binding and richness, yet vegan alternatives like a flaxseed or chia “egg” can be used.
Brown Sugar: Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar, adjusting to taste.

Using substitutions may affect the final taste and texture.

Tips From the Chef

Bread Thickness: Thicker slices (around an inch) hold up better and provide a delightful bite.
Stale Over Fresh: A day-old bread absorbs the mixture better without falling apart.
Cooking Temperature: Medium-high heat ensures a golden crust without burning.
Even Saturation: Ensure each slice gets an even soak for consistent results.

Overhead view of sourdough French toast with fresh berry jam on top.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To Freeze: Cool French toast completely on a wire rack. Transfer the bread to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. You can stack the French toast with parchment paper in between each layer. Once frozen solid, shift them to a resealable plastic freezer bag for long-term storage.

To Reheat: Either microwave on high for about 1 minute per slice or toast them for a crispy exterior.