Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French toast is a breakfast classic elevated by the unique flavor and texture of sourdough bread. Unlike regular French toast, sourdough provides a subtle tang, a tender yet sturdy crumb, and a slightly chewy texture that absorbs the custard perfectly without becoming soggy. Each slice achieves a golden brown crust while maintaining a creamy interior, creating a satisfying contrast that feels indulgent yet approachable.

Delicious Breakfast Recipes

What makes sourdough French toast special is its depth of flavor. The natural fermentation of sourdough adds a mild tanginess that complements sweet toppings like maple syrup or fresh berries. People love it because it transforms simple breakfast ingredients eggs, milk, and bread into something rich, comforting, and visually appealing. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is easy to make at home, perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or even weekday breakfasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sourdough French toast recipe ensures every slice is perfectly cooked, with a golden crust and custardy interior. The use of slightly stale or day-old sourdough bread is key, as it absorbs the egg mixture evenly without falling apart. The custard itself is flavored with vanilla, a touch of cinnamon, and optional nutmeg to add warmth and aroma without overpowering the natural tang of the bread.

It’s versatile and adaptable. You can make it quickly on the stovetop for individual servings, or prepare a sourdough French toast casserole for a larger gathering. This method also works well with sourdough discard, making it a practical solution for using up leftover starter while creating a delicious breakfast. The recipe balances flavor, texture, and convenience, making it a standout in breakfast ideas with sourdough bread.

Additionally, this recipe introduces techniques that home cooks can carry into other French toast recipes with sourdough bread, from overnight soaking to perfect stovetop cooking. Mastering this method opens up possibilities for creative toppings, baked casseroles, and flavor variations, all while using what you may already have on hand.

Preparation and Cooking Time, also serving

Prep Time: 15 minutes (or 10 minutes for overnight soak if making a casserole)
Cook Time: 10 minutes per batch on stovetop or 35-40 minutes for baked casserole
Total Time: 25 minutes stovetop, 50 minutes baked casserole
Serving Size: Serves 4-6 people

This recipe scales easily. For larger groups, a sourdough French toast casserole is ideal, while stovetop preparation works well for smaller breakfasts.

Ingredients

4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk or half and half
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
6 slices day-old sourdough bread, about 1 inch thick
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking
Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream

Substitution Notes

For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk and plant-based butter.
For a richer custard, use cream in place of part of the milk.
You can use sourdough discard slices if preferred; slightly thicker slices work best.
Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or agave for topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Custard

In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined. Ensure there are no lumps, and the mixture is smooth. This custard will soak into the sourdough slices evenly.

Step 2: Soak the Sourdough Bread

Dip each slice of sourdough bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 20-30 seconds per side. Ensure the bread absorbs the custard but does not become overly soggy. Place soaked slices on a plate, ready for cooking.

Step 3: Cook on the Stovetop

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place soaked bread slices on the skillet. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning. Repeat for remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.

Step 4: Make a Baked Sourdough French Toast Casserole (Optional)

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange custard-soaked sourdough slices in a single layer. Pour any remaining custard over the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and the custard has set. For added richness, sprinkle shredded cheese or streusel on top before baking.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Serve hot for best texture and flavor. Add maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream as desired. The contrast between the slightly tangy sourdough and sweet toppings creates a perfect balance in every bite.

How to Serve

Sourdough French toast shines when plated neatly with toppings arranged thoughtfully. Stack slices for a classic presentation or fan them out on a platter for a brunch spread. Drizzle maple syrup generously and add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream for both flavor and visual appeal.

For baked casseroles, cut into squares or rectangles, and serve directly from the baking dish. Pair with freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, or a mimosa for a complete brunch experience. Light garnishes such as mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar elevate presentation and add a professional touch without extra effort.

Additional Tips

Use day-old sourdough bread for optimal custard absorption.
Do not over-soak slices; they should be saturated but maintain structure.
Cook on medium heat to ensure the custard sets without burning the crust.
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top just before serving.
For sourdough French toast casserole, refrigerate overnight for an overnight soak version to simplify morning preparation.

Recipe Variations

Sourdough Discard French Toast
Use leftover sourdough starter in the custard for added tang and a slight depth of flavor. This is an excellent way to reduce waste while creating a flavorful breakfast. Adjust the custard slightly by reducing liquid if your starter is very wet.
French Toast Recipe With Sourdough Bread and Berries
Add fresh or frozen berries between soaked slices for a fruity twist. Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries work beautifully. For casseroles, sprinkle berries throughout before baking to infuse flavor evenly.
Sourdough French Toast Bake with Nuts
Top the casserole with chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds before baking. The nuts add crunch, texture, and a toasty aroma that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of maple syrup or caramelized toppings.
Overnight Sourdough French Toast Casserole
Assemble the custard-soaked bread the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning for a convenient, hands-off approach. This version allows the custard to fully absorb into the bread for a creamy, custardy texture throughout.
French Toast Recipe Sourdough with Caramelized Bananas
Top cooked slices or casserole portions with buttered, caramelized banana slices for a rich, indulgent variation. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the sweetness and aroma.
Chocolate Sourdough French Toast
Add a layer of chocolate spread between soaked slices or sprinkle cocoa powder into the custard. Serve with chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a dessert-like breakfast treat.
Savory Sourdough French Toast
Skip the sugar and add herbs, cheese, or cooked bacon to the custard. This version transforms French toast into a hearty, savory breakfast or brunch option.
Coconut or Almond Sourdough French Toast
Replace a portion of the milk with coconut milk or almond milk and sprinkle shredded coconut or chopped almonds on top. This adds a subtle nutty flavor and a pleasant texture to the dish.

These variations showcase the versatility of sourdough French toast. From sweet and indulgent to savory or nutty, you can adapt the recipe to suit any occasion, flavor preference, or ingredient on hand, making it a breakfast option that is both creative and reliable.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover cooked French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet, oven, or toaster for crisp edges.
Freeze unbaked soaked bread slices or casserole portions for up to 1 month.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.
Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore moisture if needed.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving (2 slices)

Calories: 300 kcal
Protein: 10g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 220mg

Values may vary depending on milk and toppings used.

Final Words

Sourdough French toast is a breakfast or brunch dish that combines simplicity with sophistication, transforming basic ingredients into a rich, flavorful experience. The natural tang of sourdough bread adds depth to the custard-soaked slices, creating a perfect balance between sweetness and subtle acidity. Each bite delivers a tender interior with a golden, slightly crisp exterior, making it a satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether served for a weekend family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a special occasion, it elevates any morning meal into something memorable and delicious.

Making sourdough French toast at home also provides an opportunity to explore culinary techniques that enhance texture and flavor. Mastering the custard mixture, learning how long to soak the bread, and achieving the ideal golden-brown finish are skills that transfer to other French toast recipes with sourdough bread or even baked casseroles. Preparing an overnight soak version or a sourdough French toast casserole allows for convenient planning while still delivering restaurant-quality results, helping home cooks save time without compromising on taste.

The versatility of this dish is another reason it shines in any kitchen. You can customize it with toppings like fresh berries, caramelized fruits, nuts, or whipped cream to suit personal tastes. Using sourdough discard in the custard not only prevents waste but also introduces a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor profile. By mastering this recipe, you gain a go-to solution for impressive breakfasts that are visually appealing, easy to prepare, and deeply satisfying. Sourdough French toast becomes more than a meal it’s a reliable, versatile, and delicious addition to your repertoire of breakfast ideas with sourdough bread.

FAQs

Yes, slightly stale bread works best for custard absorption without becoming soggy.

Absolutely. Incorporate discard into the custard for added tang and efficient use of leftover starter.

Yes, for a baked casserole, soak bread overnight in the custard and bake in the morning.

Yes, unbaked soaked slices or casserole portions freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw before baking.

Maple syrup, fresh berries, caramelized fruits, powdered sugar, or whipped cream complement the tangy sourdough flavor.

Yes, it can be scaled up as a sourdough French toast casserole, making it perfect for feeding multiple people.