As I stood in my kitchen, eyeing that lonely loaf of sourdough—its crust just a touch too crunchy to enjoy on its own—it hit me: the perfect breakfast was moments away. Enter Homemade Sourdough French Toast, a delightful twist on a classic that transforms stale bread into a heavenly dish. With its crispy golden exterior and custardy interior, this quick and easy recipe elevates breakfast to a new level. Not only does it whip up in just minutes, but it’s also a fantastic way to give that bread a second chance while inviting you to get creative with toppings. Are you ready to soak, fry, and savor this delectable creation? Let’s dive in!

Why is Sourdough French Toast a Must-Try?

Deliciously Unique: The tangy flavor of sourdough elevates this classic dish, making each bite a delightful experience.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying breakfast ready in no time—perfect for busy mornings!
Customizable Toppings: From fresh berries to rich syrup, the topping options are endless, ensuring everyone can enjoy their own unique creation.
Sustainable Cooking: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up stale bread, reducing waste while creating something delicious.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Ideal for weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast-for-dinner, this treat is sure to impress family and friends.

For more delightful breakfast ideas, check out my Roll French Toast or indulge in some sweet Homemade Blueberry Muffins to complement your meal!

Homemade Sourdough French Toast Ingredients

Discover the simple components that make this breakfast delight.

For the Custard Mixture

Eggs – Provides structure and richness; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Milk – Adds moisture to the custard; can be replaced with almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; for a richer taste, use almond extract.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; can be omitted or replaced with nutmeg for a different flavor profile.

For the French Toast

Sourdough Bread – The star ingredient that provides texture and tanginess; use slightly stale bread for optimal soaking.
Butter – Used for frying to achieve a crispy exterior; olive oil can be a healthier alternative.

For Serving

Fresh Toppings – Optional additions like syrup, berries, or whipped cream; tailor it to your taste!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Sourdough French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until fully incorporated. Aim for a smooth and creamy texture without any lumps. This custard mixture will envelop your sourdough bread, adding flavor and richness to each slice as they soak.

Step 2: Heat the Pan
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, swirling it around the pan to coat the surface evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter begins to sizzle gently, creating a delightful aroma as it warms, signaling it’s time to fry.

Step 3: Soak the Bread
Take a slice of sourdough bread and dip it into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Let it soak for about 15-20 seconds, allowing the bread to absorb the flavors. Be careful not to let it soak too long, or it may become too soggy, which can impact your final texture.

Step 4: Cook the First Side
Gently place the soaked sourdough bread into the hot skillet, ensuring it’s flat against the surface. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom side is a beautiful golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on the color, as the goal is a perfect, warm hue without burning.

Step 5: Flip and Cook the Other Side
Using a spatula, carefully flip the bread to cook the other side. Let it fry for another 3-4 minutes, until it’s similarly golden and has developed a crispy exterior. The aroma filling your kitchen will indicate that your homemade sourdough French toast is nearly ready to serve!

Step 6: Repeat the Cooking Process
Continue the process with the remaining slices of sourdough bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed to prevent sticking. Ensure the pan does not become overcrowded; working in batches guarantees even cooking and consistent results for all slices of your delightful French toast.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the pieces are cooked to perfection, stack your homemade sourdough French toast on a serving plate. Optionally, serve it warm with your favorite toppings such as syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream. This beautiful concoction is sure to delight your family and friends at breakfast!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Sourdough French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can prepare the custard mixture (3 eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon) up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can soak the bread in the custard mixture and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 hours before cooking to ensure great flavor and texture. Just remember to cook the soaked slices right before serving for an irresistibly crispy finish. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready with minimal effort any day of the week!

Storage Tips for Homemade Sourdough French Toast

Room Temperature: Homemade Sourdough French Toast is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Keep it uncovered to maintain its crispness.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster for best results, preventing it from becoming soggy.

Freezer: To freeze, place cooled slices between sheets of parchment paper, then store in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a skillet or toaster until heated through.

Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat the French toast in a skillet over medium heat, adding a touch of butter to restore its crispy exterior. Enjoy the tangy delight of your homemade sourdough French toast even after storing!

Expert Tips for Homemade Sourdough French Toast

Use Stale Bread: For the best texture, make sure the sourdough bread is slightly stale. This allows it to soak up the custard without falling apart.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches helps ensure that each slice gets evenly crispy. Overcrowding can trap steam, leading to soggy French toast.
Let It Rest: After dipping each slice in the custard mixture, allow it to sit for about a minute before frying. This helps achieve an extra crispy exterior.
Watch the Heat: Medium heat is key! Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. Keep an eye on the browning to perfection.
Experiment with Toppings: Personalize your homemade sourdough French toast with toppings like maple syrup, fruit, or whipped cream for a fun twist!

What to Serve with Homemade Sourdough French Toast

Pair your breakfast treat with a delightful mix of fresh flavors and hearty sides to create a memorable meal.

Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweetness of the French toast, creating a perfect contrast.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the toast.
Classic Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup enhances the sweet notes, making every bite of your French toast a heavenly experience.
Light Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and berries offers a delightful contrast in texture while adding probiotics to your meal.

For a cozy twist, serve your French toast with a warm cup of spiced chai or a fresh brew of coffee. Enjoying your French toast with a flavored brew can enhance the experience, making it a comforting start to the day.

Homemade Sourdough French Toast Variations

Feel free to tailor your Homemade Sourdough French Toast to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Vegan Delight: Swap out eggs for a flax egg and use almond milk for a creamy custard that’s plant-based.
Gluten-Free Option: If you’re avoiding gluten, try using a gluten-free sourdough bread. The flavor may vary, but it’s a tasty alternative!
Rich & Buttery: Opt for brioche or challah instead of sourdough for a decadent, rich twist that melts in your mouth. The sweetness will take your breakfast to new heights.
Spiced Up: Add in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a warm and inviting spice that envelops each slice.
Fruity Explosion: Top with fresh peaches, apples, or even sautéed bananas for a seasonal burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts or granola on top post-cooking for added crunch and texture. It’ll make every bite more satisfying!
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, drizzle some spicy maple syrup or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes onto your syrup for a surprising twist.
Dessert-Style French Toast: Transform it into a dessert by adding a dollop of whipped cream and drizzling chocolate or caramel sauce over the top. Perfect for a sweet treat anytime!

If you’re craving more breakfast inspirations, why not indulge in some sweet Homemade Blueberry Muffins or try a delightful twist with my Chicken Nuggets Homemade? Tailor each recipe to match your mood and enjoy!

Homemade Sourdough French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my sourdough bread is ripe for use?
Absolutely! For the best results, the sourdough bread should be slightly stale. Look for bread that has firm crust and a chewy texture. If your bread has dark spots all over, it may be overripe. Aim to use bread that has been out for at least a day or two, as this will help it soak up the custard without falling apart.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! If you’ve got any homemade sourdough French toast left, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the slices in a skillet over medium heat until warm or toast them until they regain that lovely crispiness. I often enjoy my leftovers as a quick breakfast or snack!

Can I freeze homemade sourdough French toast?
Definitely! To freeze your French toast, let it cool completely first. Then, layer the slices between parchment paper and place them in an airtight freezer bag, which can last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat them directly from frozen in a skillet or toaster, adding a bit of butter to crisp them up perfectly.

What should I do if my French toast turns out soggy?
If you find your French toast is soggy, don’t worry, you can troubleshoot! Ensure your bread isn’t overly soaked in the custard—aim for about 15-20 seconds of soaking time. If it’s already soggy, try reheating it in a skillet over medium heat. This can help restore some texture. Additionally, using slightly stale bread will aid in preventing sogginess next time!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! If you’re accommodating food allergies or dietary preferences, there are great options available. For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes until thickened) and use almond milk in place of dairy milk. Always double-check ingredient labels for any allergens if you’re serving others!

What toppings are best for sourdough French toast?
The more the merrier! You can customize your toppings based on your mood. I love fresh berries or sliced bananas combined with maple syrup for a classic feel. For a more indulgent option, whipped cream and a dusting of powdered sugar can elevate your breakfast! Feel free to get creative.

Homemade Sourdough French Toast: Crispy, Tangy Perfection

Enjoy the delightful twist of Homemade Sourdough French Toast, turning stale bread into a crispy, tangy breakfast treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Resting Time 1

Total Time 31

Servings: 4 slices

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Custard Mixture

3 large Eggs Provides structure and richness; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
1 cup Milk Adds moisture to the custard; can be replaced with almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor; for a richer taste, use almond extract.
1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adds warmth and spice; can be omitted or replaced with nutmeg for a different flavor profile.

For the French Toast

4 slices Sourdough Bread The star ingredient that provides texture and tanginess; use slightly stale bread for optimal soaking.
1 tablespoon Butter Used for frying to achieve a crispy exterior; olive oil can be a healthier alternative.

For Serving

Fresh Toppings Optional additions like syrup, berries, or whipped cream; tailor it to your taste!

Equipment

skillet
medium bowl

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Sourdough French Toast

In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until fully incorporated.
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt completely.
Take a slice of sourdough bread and dip it into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
Gently place the soaked sourdough bread into the hot skillet, ensuring it's flat against the surface. Cook for about 3-4 minutes.
Using a spatula, carefully flip the bread to cook the other side. Let it fry for another 3-4 minutes.
Continue the process with the remaining slices of sourdough bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
Once all the pieces are cooked to perfection, stack your homemade sourdough French toast on a serving plate.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 6gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 112mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For the best texture, make sure the sourdough bread is slightly stale. Cooking in batches helps ensure that each slice gets evenly crispy.

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