The Perfect For Brunch

There’s something universally comforting about French toast. With its golden, custard-soaked slices, crispy edges, and hint of sweetness, it’s a brunch classic that never goes out of style. But if you’re looking to elevate this beloved dish with a bit of rustic charm and complex flavor, sourdough French toast is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

Known as “pain perdu” in France—literally “lost bread”—French toast was originally created as a clever way to repurpose stale loaves. Sourdough bread, with its chewy texture and naturally tangy flavor, is a perfect fit for this tradition. Its sturdy crumb soaks up the egg mixture beautifully without falling apart, while the sourdough tang adds a subtle depth that balances the sweetness of the dish.

I first discovered sourdough French toast during a lazy Sunday brunch, trying to use up a few thick slices of day-old sourdough. One bite in, and I was hooked. The crispy crust, chewy center, and gentle sour notes turned a simple breakfast into something truly memorable.

Beyond the flavor, sourdough also brings health benefits to the table. It’s easier to digest than conventional white bread, has a lower glycemic index, and offers natural probiotics and fiber thanks to its fermentation process. It’s indulgent, yes—but with a wholesome twist.

Ingredients for the Best Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French toast starts with simple, wholesome ingredients—but the magic lies in how they come together. This recipe highlights the natural texture and tang of sourdough bread, while allowing room for creative add-ons and dietary flexibility. Here’s everything you need to create a brunch-worthy batch.

🥖 Main Ingredients:

4–6 thick slices of sourdough bread
Day-old or slightly stale bread works best—it soaks up the custard without falling apart.
3 large eggs
¾ cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan or skillet)
Maple syrup or powdered sugar, for serving

🍊 Optional Flavor Enhancers:

1 teaspoon orange zest – adds a citrusy brightness
¼ teaspoon nutmeg or cardamom – for warm, aromatic spice
Fresh toppings – like berries, whipped cream, or chopped nuts for texture and color

🌱 Substitution Options:

Dairy-free milk – Use almond, oat, or soy milk to make it dairy-free
Vegan-friendly version – Swap eggs for mashed banana, flaxseed eggs, or a plant-based egg replacer
Gluten-free sourdough – If you’re gluten-sensitive, opt for a gluten-free sourdough loaf

💡 Ingredient Tips:

Use thick, rustic slices of sourdough for that chewy, crispy bite.
Day-old bread absorbs the custard better than fresh, making for a more flavorful and firm French toast.
Organic eggs and real vanilla extract elevate the richness and aroma of your custard.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a French toast that’s just as satisfying as it is soul-warming.

How to Make Perfect Sourdough French Toast: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making sourdough French toast is a breeze once you master the balance of soaking, cooking, and crisping. With its chewy texture and tangy flavor, sourdough offers a delightful upgrade to the traditional version. Follow these easy steps for a golden, custardy, and irresistibly crisp French toast every time.

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Start by slicing your sourdough into thick slices—about ¾ to 1 inch thick. If your bread is very fresh, let it sit out for 1–2 hours to dry slightly. Day-old or lightly stale sourdough is ideal because it absorbs the custard without falling apart.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a shallow bowl or baking dish, whisk together:

3 large eggs
¾ cup milk (or cream)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For extra flavor, feel free to add a bit of orange zest or nutmeg.

Step 3: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt about 1 tablespoon of butter. The butter should sizzle gently—not burn—when ready.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of sourdough into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 10–15 seconds per side. You want the bread to absorb the mixture without becoming soggy.

Pro Tip: Don’t oversoak—sourdough is dense and doesn’t need long to absorb the custard.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden and Crispy

Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet. Cook each slice for 2–3 minutes per side, or until it turns golden brown with crisp edges. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.

Step 6: Keep Warm if Making Batches

If you’re cooking multiple batches, keep finished slices warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven. This helps retain crispness without drying them out.

Step 7: Serve with Your Favorite Toppings

Serve immediately while warm. Top with:

Maple syrup or powdered sugar
Fresh berries
Whipped cream
Chopped nuts
Or a drizzle of honey or fruit compote for a brunch-worthy finish

🔥 Extra Cooking Tips:

Medium heat is key—too hot and you’ll burn the outside before the center sets; too low and you’ll miss out on that golden crust.
For an ultra-crispy finish, place cooked slices on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5 minutes before serving.
Want to prep ahead? Make the custard the night before and refrigerate for easy morning assembly.

With this method, you’ll get crispy edges, soft centers, and rich flavor—everything you want in a classic French toast, made even better with sourdough.

Tips & Variations for Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French toast is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize for different diets, seasons, and flavor preferences. Whether you’re planning a casual breakfast or an elevated brunch, these creative ideas will help you make the dish your own.

🥬 Special Diet-Friendly Options

Vegan version: Swap regular milk for plant-based alternatives like oat, almond, or soy milk. Replace eggs with mashed banana, flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water), or a store-bought vegan egg replacer for a rich, custardy soak.
Gluten-free needs: Use a quality gluten-free sourdough loaf—available at many health food stores or bakeries—for the same texture and tang without the gluten.

🍂 Flavorful Twists

Fall-inspired: Stir in pumpkin spice or ground nutmeg to the custard for a cozy, autumnal twist.
Brunch with a kick: Add a splash (about 1 tbsp) of orange liqueur, amaretto, or even a shot of espresso to the custard mixture for a grown-up version that pairs beautifully with coffee.

🍓 Serving Suggestions

Pair your French toast with fresh berries, banana slices, or Greek yogurt for a wholesome and colorful plate.
Go savory-sweet by serving it alongside maple-glazed bacon or chicken sausage.
For a crowd, turn your recipe into a baked French toast casserole—layer slices in a dish, pour custard over, and bake for a no-fuss brunch centerpiece.
Top with flavored syrups like vanilla bean, cinnamon maple, or warm berry compote for an extra-special finish.

With a few simple variations, sourdough French toast transforms from a classic breakfast to a customizable showstopper that fits any occasion or dietary preference.

Nutritional Information: Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French toast is a delicious blend of indulgence and nutrition, especially when made with wholesome ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Here’s a look at the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, plus how sourdough adds a healthier edge to this brunch favorite.

📊 Per Serving (2 slices with standard custard and butter):

Calories: ~320–380
Protein: ~12g
Carbohydrates: ~35–40g
Fats: ~15–18g
Saturated Fat: ~5g
Sugars: ~8–10g
Fiber: ~2–3g

Note: Values will vary based on bread thickness, type of milk used, toppings, and cooking fat.

🍞 Why Sourdough Bread Is a Nutritional Upgrade

Sourdough isn’t just flavorful—it offers several potential health benefits:

Naturally fermented using wild yeast, which can aid digestion and nutrient absorption.
May have a lower glycemic index than conventional white bread, which helps with blood sugar control.
Contains higher levels of B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants compared to non-fermented breads.
Often easier to digest for people with mild gluten sensitivities due to the fermentation process.

💡 Tips for a Lighter Version

Use egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites to reduce fat and cholesterol.
Swap whole milk or cream for skim, almond, or oat milk to cut calories.
Lightly butter the skillet or use a non-stick spray instead of frying in full butter.
Instead of syrup, top with fresh fruit, a dusting of cinnamon, or a drizzle of warm berry compote for sweetness without added sugar.

Whether you’re treating yourself or sticking to a health-conscious routine, sourdough French toast offers a satisfying, nutrient-rich start to your day.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them When Making Sourdough French Toast

Even though French toast is a simple dish, small missteps can make a big difference in taste and texture. Here are the most common mistakes people make when preparing sourdough French toast, along with tried-and-true solutions to help you get it right every time.

🥴 Soggy Toast

The Problem: Your toast is too wet or falling apart.
The Fix: Use day-old or slightly stale sourdough bread, which absorbs custard without becoming mushy. Also, don’t over-soak—10–15 seconds per side is enough for sourdough’s dense crumb.

🔥 Burning Before It Cooks Through

The Problem: The outside is browned, but the inside is undercooked.
The Fix: Use medium heat to allow the inside to cook while the outside turns golden. Also, consider using slightly thinner slices if you’re in a hurry—thick cuts need lower, slower cooking.

🥚 Egg Mixture Not Sticking to the Bread

The Problem: The custard seems to run off or doesn’t absorb well.
The Fix: Make sure to whisk your egg mixture thoroughly so it’s well combined. Then, press the bread gently into the mixture and let it rest briefly to absorb the custard evenly.

🧱 Dry Texture

The Problem: The French toast is too dry or firm inside.
The Fix: Add a bit more milk or cream to your egg mixture for a silkier custard. Also, don’t overcook—pull the toast off the heat when it’s golden brown but still springy to the touch.

😐 Flavor Too Bland

The Problem: It tastes flat or unbalanced.
The Fix: Boost flavor with a touch more vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, or a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness and depth. A little zest or spice goes a long way.

With these easy fixes, your sourdough French toast will be crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor—every single time.

FAQs: Sourdough French Toast

Whether you’re making brunch for two or prepping ahead for a weekend gathering, these frequently asked questions will help you get the most out of your sourdough French toast experience.

Can I use fresh sourdough bread?

Yes, you can—but day-old or slightly stale sourdough is ideal. It absorbs the egg mixture better without falling apart and results in a crispier, more custard-like texture.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can whisk the custard (egg mixture) the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just soak the bread and cook fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, sourdough French toast freezes very well. Let the slices cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven for a crispy, just-cooked texture.

Can I make this in a large batch?

Definitely. Cook the slices briefly in a skillet to sear both sides, then transfer them to a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. This method is perfect for brunch parties or meal prepping.

What’s the best milk to use?

For richness, go with whole milk or half & half. For dairy-free options, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk all work beautifully—just make sure they’re unsweetened to control the flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store cooked slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on a skillet, in the toaster, or oven to maintain texture.

Got more questions? Drop them in the comments below—we’re happy to help you perfect your French toast game!

Conclusion & Call to Action

Sourdough French toast is a simple yet elevated twist on a breakfast classic. With its tangy, chewy texture and golden, custard-soaked edges, it offers a flavor profile that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re using leftover sourdough or picking up a fresh loaf from your favorite bakery, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a brunch-worthy masterpiece.

It’s incredibly easy to make, adaptable to various dietary needs, and perfect for everything from cozy weekend mornings to impressive brunch spreads. With endless options for toppings and flavor add-ins, you can customize each batch to suit your mood or the season.

If you haven’t tried sourdough French toast yet, now’s the time! Whip it up for your next weekend brunch, holiday breakfast, or simply to treat yourself to something special.

👉 Have a unique twist or favorite topping combo? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear your ideas!
📸 Made this recipe? Tag us on Instagram or share your photos and experiences—we might feature your creation!