Sourdough French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite that brings a unique flavor and texture to your morning routine. Imagine sinking your teeth into thick slices of golden-brown bread, perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, all while being infused with the tangy essence of sourdough. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also has a rich history, originating from the need to use up stale bread, which has evolved into a beloved breakfast staple across many cultures.

People adore sourdough French toast for its versatility and convenience; it can be dressed up with fresh fruits, drizzled with maple syrup, or even topped with a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of the sourdough’s unique flavor profile and the creamy custard mixture creates a breakfast experience that is both comforting and indulgent. Join me as we explore this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a cherished part of your breakfast repertoire!

Ingredients:

4 slices of sourdough bread (preferably a day or two old for better texture)
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
Butter or oil for cooking
Maple syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar for serving

Preparing the Batter

1. **Gather Your Ingredients**: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. I love having everything in one place! 2. **Whisk the Eggs**: In a large mixing bowl, crack the two eggs. Using a whisk or a fork, beat the eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy. This step is crucial as it helps to create a fluffy texture in the French toast. 3. **Add Milk**: Pour in the cup of whole milk. If you’re using a milk alternative, that works too! Just make sure it’s unsweetened for the best flavor balance. Whisk again until the mixture is smooth. 4. **Incorporate Flavorings**: Add the teaspoon of vanilla extract and the teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the egg and milk mixture. If you like a hint of sweetness, sprinkle in the tablespoon of sugar. Whisk everything together until well combined. The aroma of vanilla and cinnamon will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Preparing the Bread

5. **Slice the Sourdough**: If your sourdough bread isn’t pre-sliced, cut it into thick slices, about 1-inch thick. The thickness is important as it allows the bread to soak up the batter without falling apart. 6. **Soak the Bread**: Take each slice of sourdough and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure to coat both sides thoroughly. I like to let the bread soak for about 30 seconds on each side, but you can adjust this based on how soft you want your French toast. If you prefer a custardy center, soak a little longer. 7. **Prepare Your Cooking Surface**: While the bread is soaking, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the pan. I usually prefer butter for that rich flavor, but oil works just as well if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Cooking Process

8. **Cook the French Toast**: Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully place the soaked slices of sourdough in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you want to give each slice enough space to cook evenly. I usually cook two slices at a time. 9. **Monitor Cooking Time**: Cook the French toast for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the bottom is golden brown and slightly crispy. Use a spatula to gently lift a corner to check the color. 10. **Flip and Finish Cooking**: Once the first side is golden, flip the slices over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. The goal is to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color on both sides. If you find that the toast is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. 11. **Repeat**: Remove the cooked slices from the skillet and place them on a plate. If you’re making a larger batch, you can keep the cooked French toast warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the remaining slices.

Assembling and Serving

12. **Plate the French Toast**: Once all the slices are cooked, it’s time to serve! I like to stack two slices on each plate for a hearty serving. 13. **Add Toppings**: Now comes the fun part—toppings! Drizzle warm maple syrup over the top, or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Fresh fruit like berries, bananas, or sliced peaches can add a refreshing contrast. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent. 14. **Enjoy**: Sit down, take a moment to appreciate your creation, and dig in! The combination of the tangy sourdough with the sweet custard is simply divine.

Tips and Variations

15. **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to get creative with your French toast! You can add a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash

Conclusion:

In summary, this Sourdough French Toast recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast game. The unique tanginess of the sourdough bread combined with the rich, custardy texture creates a delightful dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you enjoy it topped with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, each bite is a delicious experience that will leave you craving more. For those who want to mix things up, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture for a warm spice kick, or even a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different toppings—think whipped cream, yogurt, or even a savory twist with crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Sourdough French Toast a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped up this delightful dish, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, and any creative toppings you come up with. Let’s spread the joy of this delicious recipe together! Happy cooking! Print