Sourdough French Toast

02/27/202502/13/2025 by Chef Zainab

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Sourdough French toast takes a classic breakfast favorite and gives it a gourmet twist. The tangy, slightly chewy texture of sourdough bread absorbs the rich, spiced custard perfectly, creating a crispy, golden-brown exterior with a soft and fluffy inside. Whether you’re making this for a cozy weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just because, this easy homemade French toast recipe is sure to become a new favorite!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Cost per Serving: $1.50
Calories per Serving: 320

French toast is one of the most beloved breakfast dishes, but when you use sourdough bread, it reaches a whole new level of flavor and texture. Unlike soft sandwich bread, sourdough has a sturdy structure that soaks up the custard without getting soggy. Plus, its slightly tangy flavor perfectly balances the sweetness of maple syrup and cinnamon.

This sourdough French toast recipe is crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Serve it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, powdered sugar, or your favorite syrup for the ultimate breakfast treat.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Sourdough French Toast

A plate of crispy sourdough French toast topped with maple syrup and berries. — This sourdough French toast is crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect for brunch.

Sourdough French toast takes a classic breakfast dish and makes it even better with its crispy edges, soft center, and rich flavor. Whether you’re a French toast lover or just looking for a new way to use sourdough bread, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Here’s why:

A Better Texture – Crispy Outside, Soft Inside

Unlike regular sandwich bread, sourdough has a firmer, sturdier structure, which means it holds up to the custard without getting soggy.

Golden, crispy exterior – The crust caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
Soft and fluffy inside – The custard soaks in just enough to keep it tender.
No mushy texture – Perfect for those who love a firm bite rather than a soggy slice.

For an extra crispy finish, cook it in butter and a little oil to prevent burning.

Richer, More Complex Flavor

Sourdough bread has a natural tangy flavor from the fermentation process, which adds depth and complexity to the traditional sweetness of French toast.

The mild sourness balances the sweetness of maple syrup.
Works well with both sweet and savory toppings.
Pairs beautifully with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

Want an even deeper flavor? Use an artisan sourdough loaf with a stronger tang.

Great for Using Up Leftover Sourdough

If you have day-old sourdough sitting in your kitchen, this is the perfect way to use it up. Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, resulting in the perfect texture.

No waste – A great way to repurpose old bread
Soaks up the custard without falling apart.
Still tastes fresh and delicious once cooked.

If your sourdough is too fresh, lightly toast the slices before soaking them in the custard to prevent sogginess.

Easy to Make, Yet Feels Gourmet

This recipe is quick and simple, but it has a gourmet feel, making it perfect for both lazy weekend breakfasts and special occasions.

Simple ingredients – Eggs, milk, bread, and a few spices.
Takes only 20 minutes – A fast and satisfying breakfast.
Perfect for entertaining – A great brunch dish for family and friends.

Hosting a brunch? Serve with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and a drizzle of honey for a café-style presentation.

Customizable to Fit Any Preference

This sourdough French toast recipe is highly customizable—sweet or savory, simple or indulgent, classic or creative.

Make it sweet – Add maple syrup, cinnamon, or fruit.
Try a savory twist – Skip the sugar and top with eggs and cheese.
Use different milks – Almond, oat, coconut, or even buttermilk for extra richness.
Add mix-ins – Try chocolate chips, orange zest, or caramel drizzle.

For a protein boost, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the custard mixture.

Final Thoughts

If you love French toast, this sourdough version will take it to the next level. With its crispy outside, soft inside, rich flavor, and endless customization options, it’s a breakfast worth waking up for.

Tried this recipe? Let me know how you customized it in the comments!

How to make Sourdough French Toast

A plate of golden-brown sourdough French toast topped with fresh berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup. — Delicious sourdough French toast with crispy edges and a fluffy center, served with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Ingredients

4 thick slices sourdough bread (preferably day-old)
2 large eggs
¾ cup whole milk (or oat, almond, or coconut milk)
1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for cooking)
Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or syrup for topping
For dairy-free French toast, use almond milk and coconut oil instead of butter!

Instructions

1-Prepare the Custard

In a shallow bowl or baking dish, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.

For extra smooth custard, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve before dipping the bread.

2-Soak the Sourdough Bread

Dip each slice of sourdough into the custard mixture, letting it soak for 20-30 seconds per side.
Make sure the bread absorbs the liquid but does not become overly soggy.

If your sourdough is very fresh, soak it for a shorter time. If it’s slightly stale, let it absorb the custard a bit longer.

3-Cook the French Toast

Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter.
Add the soaked bread slices, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.

For extra crispy edges, add a tiny bit of oil along with the butter.

4-Serve & Garnish

Transfer the golden-brown French toast to a plate.
Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and add fresh fruit or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Want a crunchy topping? Sprinkle chopped nuts or granola over your French toast!

Tips for the Best Sourdough French Toast

–Use Slightly Stale Bread – Day-old sourdough absorbs custard better without becoming soggy.
–Do Not Oversoak – Sourdough is sturdier than other bread but can still get too soft if left in the custard too long.
–Cook on Medium Heat – Too hot, and it will burn; too low, and it won’t crisp up properly.
–Use a Combination of Butter & Oil – Butter for flavor, oil for crispiness.
–Keep Warm in the Oven – If making a large batch, keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while finishing the rest.

Nutrition Per Serving

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Carbohydrates	40g
Sugar	10g
Fat	12g
Protein	10g

For a lower-calorie option, use skim milk and reduce the syrup.

Kitchen tools you will need

Please note that the links below are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I’ll earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for supporting my blog!

Best Cast Iron Skillets for Perfect French Toast – Buy on Amazon: A high-quality cast iron skillet helps achieve the perfect crispy golden-brown crust on your French toast.
Organic Maple Syrup for French Toast – Buy on Amazon: Enhance your sourdough French toast with pure, organic maple syrup for a rich, natural sweetness.

Would you like links for bread-making tools or whipped cream dispensers as well? Let me know!

Best Toppings for Sourdough French Toast

A plate of golden-brown sourdough French toast topped with fresh berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup. — Delicious sourdough French toast with crispy edges and a fluffy center, served with fresh fruit and a drizzle of maple syrup.

One of the best things about sourdough French toast is its versatility. Whether you prefer classic, fruity, nutty, or indulgent toppings, there’s a perfect way to customize your breakfast. Here are some of the best toppings to make your French toast extra delicious.

Classic Sweet Toppings

If you love traditional French toast flavors, these toppings will enhance the rich, spiced custard without overpowering the sourdough’s natural tang.

Pure Maple Syrup – A classic that complements the crispy texture.
Powdered Sugar – Lightly dusted for a café-style presentation.
Honey or Agave Syrup – A natural sweetener with floral notes. Butter – Melted on top for extra richness.

For an extra touch, warm the syrup before pouring it over your toast.

Fresh & Fruity Toppings

For a lighter, refreshing contrast, fresh fruit adds natural sweetness and juiciness to balance the richness of the French toast.

Strawberries & Blueberries – A sweet and slightly tart combination.
Banana Slices – Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with maple syrup.
Caramelized Apples – Cooked with cinnamon and brown sugar for extra warmth.
Fresh Figs – A fancy, slightly earthy addition.
Orange Zest & Juice – Adds a bright citrusy flavor.

Try macerating berries in a little honey and lemon juice for extra juiciness!

Indulgent & Dessert-Inspired Toppings

Turn your sourdough French toast into a decadent treat with these chocolatey, caramel, or nutty toppings.

Chocolate Chips or Cocoa Nibs – Sprinkle on top for a rich, bittersweet bite.
Nutella or Chocolate Drizzle – A creamy, smooth chocolate spread for extra indulgence.
Salted Caramel Sauce – A sweet and slightly salty contrast.
Whipped Cream – Light and airy for a dessert-like feel.
Crushed Graham Crackers – Adds a crunchy texture, great with caramel or chocolate.

For an extra indulgent experience, stuff the French toast with Nutella before cooking!

Nutty & Crunchy Toppings

If you love a little crunch with your soft and fluffy French toast, nuts and seeds add texture and richness.

Toasted Almonds or Pecans – Lightly toasted for a nutty, buttery flavor.
Crushed Walnuts – Pairs well with maple syrup and cinnamon.
Shredded Coconut – Toasted or raw for a tropical twist.
Granola – Adds a hearty crunch and extra flavor.
Tahini or Peanut Butter Drizzle – A creamy, slightly savory contrast.

For the best crunch, toast the nuts before adding them to the French toast!

Savory & Unexpected Toppings

Sourdough bread naturally pairs well with savory flavors, making it a great option for a less sweet French toast.

Crispy Bacon – The salty-sweet combo is irresistible.
Goat Cheese or Cream Cheese – Adds tangy richness.
Sautéed Mushrooms & Herbs – A gourmet twist on French toast.
Avocado Slices & Poached Egg – A high-protein, healthy option.
Smoked Salmon & Dill – A brunch-worthy savory combination.

For a more balanced flavor, use half the batch for sweet toppings and half for savory!

Final Thoughts

The right toppings can completely transform sourdough French toast, whether you want it sweet, nutty, chocolatey, fruity, or even savory.

What’s your favorite topping for French toast? Let me know in the comments!

What to Serve with Sourdough French Toast

What to Serve with Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French toast is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or balanced combinations, here are some of the best foods and drinks to serve alongside your French toast.

Protein-Packed Sides

Adding protein helps balance the sweetness of French toast and keeps you full for longer.

Crispy Bacon – The salty crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet French toast.
Breakfast Sausage – A savory option that pairs well with maple syrup.
Scrambled Eggs – Light and fluffy eggs provide a great contrast in texture.
Poached or Fried Eggs – The rich yolk adds extra creaminess when paired with French toast.
Greek Yogurt with Nuts – A creamy, tangy option that adds protein and crunch.

Fresh and Fruity Additions

Fruit adds a natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the richness of French toast.

Mixed Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide a bright, tart balance.
Banana Slices – Soft and naturally sweet, bananas complement the flavors of cinnamon and vanilla.
Caramelized Apples – Cooked with cinnamon and brown sugar, they enhance the warm, spiced flavors.
Fresh Orange Segments – The acidity cuts through the richness of the custard.
Homemade Berry Compote – A warm, fruity topping that adds extra flavor without being overly sweet.

Crunchy and Nutty Toppings

Adding a crunchy element creates a more satisfying bite and enhances texture.

Toasted Almonds or Pecans – A nutty, buttery crunch that pairs well with maple syrup.
Granola – Adds texture and a slight sweetness.
Coconut Flakes – Toasted coconut provides a tropical, slightly caramelized flavor.
Crushed Graham Crackers – A fun way to add crunch and a hint of cinnamon.

Savory Pairings for a Balanced Meal

Sourdough French toast can be transformed into a savory dish when paired with the right toppings and sides.

Avocado Slices – The creaminess of avocado complements the crispy bread.
Smoked Salmon & Cream Cheese – A sophisticated pairing for a more gourmet brunch.
Goat Cheese & Honey – A mix of tangy and sweet flavors for a balanced bite.
Tomatoes & Fresh Basil – A fresh, savory option for a Mediterranean-inspired plate.

Drinks to Pair with French Toast

A good beverage enhances the flavors of French toast and completes the meal.

Hot Coffee or Mocha Cappuccino – A bold espresso-based drink balances the sweetness of the toast.
Chai Latte – The spiced flavors of chai pair beautifully with cinnamon and maple.
Fresh Orange Juice – A bright, citrusy contrast to the rich French toast.
Iced Vanilla Latte – A refreshing choice for a warm morning brunch.
Berry Smoothie – A fruity, creamy drink that complements the toast without overpowering it.

Make It a Full Brunch Spread

If you’re hosting a brunch, consider serving sourdough French toast alongside a selection of other breakfast favorites:

Sourdough Bagels with Cream Cheese – A great addition to a homemade brunch. Try this recipe: Perfect Sourdough Bagels.
Mini Quiches or Egg Muffins – A protein-packed side dish that guests will love.
Hash Browns or Roasted Potatoes – A crispy, savory balance to the sweet toast.
Homemade Whipped Cream – Light and airy, perfect for topping your toast.

Sourdough French toast is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. Whether you prefer classic bacon and eggs, fresh fruit, or gourmet savory options, there are endless ways to create a delicious and balanced meal.

What’s your favorite way to serve French toast? Let us know in the comments!

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know

Why use sourdough for French toast?

Sourdough is firm and sturdy, which helps it hold the custard without falling apart. Its slightly tangy flavor also complements the sweet and spiced ingredients.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate leftover French toast for up to 3 days and reheat it in a pan or toaster oven for the best texture.

Can I freeze sourdough French toast?

Absolutely. Freeze cooked French toast slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or toaster.

What’s the best syrup to use?

Pure maple syrup is always a favorite, but you can also use honey, fruit compote, caramel sauce, or nut butter drizzle.

This sourdough French toast is crispy, fluffy, and packed with flavor—a must-try for any breakfast lover. Whether you make it for a weekend brunch, a holiday morning, or a simple weekday treat, this easy recipe is sure to be a hit!

Tried this recipe? Let me know how you topped your French toast in the comments!

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