Learn how to make the perfect sourdough French toast for a sweet, tangy, and satisfying breakfast.
Introduction
If you love a rich and hearty breakfast, sourdough French toast might just be your new favorite recipe. Sourdough bread, known for its tangy flavor and robust texture, brings a unique twist to classic French toast. With a crispy exterior and a tender inside, sourdough bread makes for an elevated version of the classic breakfast that your whole family will enjoy. This article will take you through the steps of making sourdough French toast while sharing tips, variations, and answers to common questions like “is sourdough bread good for French toast?” and “can you make French toast with sourdough bread?“.
Why Choose Sourdough Bread for French Toast?
There are many types of bread you could use for French toast, but sourdough has some distinct advantages. Here are a few reasons why sourdough bread is an excellent choice for making French toast:
- Texture: Sourdough has a thick crust and a chewy interior that holds up well when soaked in the egg mixture. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Flavor: The tanginess of sourdough bread perfectly complements the sweetness of the traditional French toast batter, creating a more complex flavor profile.
- Health Benefits: Sourdough is often considered a healthier choice compared to regular white bread. It is easier to digest, thanks to the fermentation process that helps break down gluten and phytic acid.
The Science Behind Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread is made through a natural fermentation process involving wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria. This method is what gives sourdough its unique, tangy flavor and its health benefits. The fermentation process increases the availability of nutrients and lowers the glycemic index of the bread. Unlike many commercial breads that contain added sugars and preservatives, sourdough is made with simple ingredients: flour, water, salt, and a sourdough starter. The fermentation also reduces gluten content, which makes it easier for some people to digest. These unique attributes are what make sourdough French toast a nutritious and flavorful choice.
Ingredients for Sourdough French Toast
To make the perfect sourdough French toast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 slices of sourdough bread (preferably day-old)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on your sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra warmth)
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for cooking
Ingredient Breakdown
- Sourdough Bread: The quality of the bread makes a significant difference in the final product. Choose a high-quality, artisanal sourdough for the best flavor.
- Eggs and Milk: These ingredients create a custard-like mixture that gives French toast its rich, creamy texture. Whole milk adds a level of creaminess that is ideal for French toast.
- Vanilla and Spices: Adding vanilla extract and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhances the flavor of the dish, adding depth and warmth.
- Butter: Butter not only prevents the bread from sticking to the pan but also adds a delicious flavor and crispy texture when cooking the bread.
Why Use Day-Old Bread?
Using day-old sourdough is recommended because it absorbs the egg mixture better without falling apart. The slight dryness allows for a rich custard flavor without becoming too soggy. Fresh sourdough bread tends to be too moist, which can lead to overly soggy French toast that falls apart during cooking. Day-old bread strikes the perfect balance between absorbency and structure, allowing for a tender but not mushy texture.
How to Make Sourdough French Toast: Step-by-Step
1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Whisk the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Ensure everything is well mixed for even distribution of flavor. The spices and sugar need to be fully incorporated to avoid pockets of uneven sweetness or flavor.
- Use a Shallow Dish: Pour the egg mixture into a shallow dish. This will make it easier to dip the bread and coat it evenly. A pie dish or baking dish works perfectly for this step.
2: Soak the Bread
- Soak the Sourdough Bread: Take each slice of sourdough bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Let each side soak for about 15-20 seconds. You want the bread to be saturated without falling apart.
- Avoid Over-Soaking: Since sourdough has a chewy texture, over-soaking can make it too soft. Be sure to keep an eye on the soaking time. You should still feel a bit of resistance when lifting the bread out of the mixture.
3: Cook the French Toast
- Heat a Skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt and sizzle slightly.
- Cook the Bread: Add the soaked slices of bread to the skillet. Cook each slice for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. You may need to adjust the heat slightly to prevent burning. The key is to cook slowly to achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring the inside is cooked through.
- Repeat as Needed: If cooking in batches, add more butter to the skillet between batches to ensure each slice is evenly cooked and flavorful. Keeping an eye on the heat is important; the skillet should be hot enough to brown the bread but not so hot that it burns before cooking through.
4: Serve and Enjoy
- Top with Your Favorite Ingredients: Serve the Tangy French Toast warm with your choice of toppings. Popular options include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for the Perfect Sourdough French Toast
- Use Thick Slices: Slice your sourdough bread at least 3/4-inch thick to ensure it holds up well during the soaking and cooking process. Thicker slices also result in a fluffier center that contrasts nicely with the crispy edges.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Cook over medium heat to achieve a crispy outside and a soft inside. High heat might burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium heat ensures that the custard cooks all the way through without scorching.
- Whisk Thoroughly: Be sure to whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to break up the eggs and incorporate the spices evenly. A well-whisked mixture results in evenly flavored French toast.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add different spices like cardamom or a splash of orange zest to enhance the flavor of your French toast. A tablespoon of orange liqueur can also add a unique twist for adults.
- Use Butter and Oil Combination: Using a mix of butter and a neutral oil like vegetable oil helps to prevent the butter from burning while still imparting that rich buttery flavor to your French toast.
Sourdough French Toast Variations
French toast is a versatile dish, and using sourdough bread only enhances that versatility. Here are some variations to try:
1. Stuffed Sourdough French Toast
- Ingredients: Before soaking the bread, cut a slit in each slice and stuff it with cream cheese and fresh berries. This method creates a delightful, sweet surprise when you bite into the toast.
- Cooking Tip: Cook slightly longer to ensure the filling is warmed through. Lower the heat slightly if needed to avoid burning the outside while the filling heats.
2. Savory Sourdough French Toast
- Ingredients: Skip the sugar and vanilla, and instead add some grated cheese and chopped herbs to the egg mixture. Top with crispy bacon and a drizzle of hot sauce for a savory twist. This version can also be served as a hearty brunch with avocado slices and a fried egg on top.
- Herb Suggestions: Thyme, chives, or rosemary can add an aromatic touch to your savory French toast.
3. Cinnamon Raisin Sourdough French Toast
- Ingredients: Use cinnamon raisin sourdough bread for an extra sweet and spiced flavor. Top with additional cinnamon sugar for a dessert-like breakfast. Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this into a decadent brunch or even a dessert.
4. French Toast Casserole with Sourdough
- Ingredients: Cube the sourdough bread and layer it in a baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top and let it sit for at least an hour or overnight in the fridge. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes.
- Why This Works: This variation is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for holiday mornings or gatherings.
Nutritional Benefits of Sourdough French Toast
French toast made with sourdough bread offers a mix of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Here’s why Tangy French Toast can be a nutritious choice:
- Fermentation Benefits: The fermentation process of sourdough reduces phytic acid, which can help your body absorb more nutrients. This makes sourdough bread more nutrient-dense compared to conventional breads.
- Lower Glycemic Index: Sourdough bread typically has a lower glycemic index compared to white bread, which means it is less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar levels. This helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the morning.
- Rich in Protein: The combination of eggs and milk in the batter provides a good amount of protein, making this dish satisfying and perfect for keeping you full until lunch. Adding toppings like Greek yogurt or nut butter further increases the protein content.
- Better Digestion: The natural fermentation of sourdough helps break down gluten and enhances gut health, which can make Tangy French Toast a more digestible option for some individuals compared to traditional French toast.
Topping Ideas for Tangy French Toast
Classic Sweet Toppings
- Maple Syrup and Butter: The classic topping that brings out the best in French toast. The syrup soaks into the sourdough, creating a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar is visually appealing and adds just a hint of sweetness without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes the French toast feel more like a dessert. You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
Fruity Toppings
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add freshness and a burst of natural sweetness. They also add a beautiful color contrast that makes the dish visually appealing.
- Caramelized Bananas: Slice bananas and cook them with a little butter and brown sugar until golden and soft. Caramelized bananas add a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness.
- Apple Compote: Cook sliced apples with cinnamon, a bit of sugar, and lemon juice to make an apple compote. This warm topping adds a touch of autumn to your French toast.
Nutty and Rich Toppings
- Nut Butter: Almond butter or peanut butter can add a nutty richness that complements the tanginess of the sourdough. This option also adds healthy fats and protein, making your breakfast more filling.
- Chopped Nuts: Add some texture by sprinkling chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts on top. The crunch adds a nice contrast to the soft French toast.
Indulgent Toppings
- Chocolate Chips: For a more indulgent twist, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top while the toast is still hot. They will melt slightly, adding a gooey, sweet touch.
- Yogurt and Honey: For a lighter, yet satisfying option, top with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. This combination offers a balance of protein, sweetness, and tang.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make French toast with sourdough bread?
Yes, you can absolutely make French toast with sourdough bread! In fact, sourdough is one of the best options for French toast due to its hearty texture and tangy flavor. The bread holds up well when soaked in the egg mixture, ensuring it doesn’t fall apart during cooking.
Is sourdough bread good for French toast?
Sourdough bread is excellent for French toast because it has a thick crust and chewy crumb that absorbs the custard mixture perfectly without becoming overly soggy. Additionally, the tangy flavor of sourdough complements the sweetness of the French toast batter, creating a well-rounded and delicious dish.
How Do You Prevent Sourdough French Toast from Becoming Soggy?
To prevent your Tangy French Toast from becoming soggy, use day-old bread and avoid over-soaking. Make sure your skillet or griddle is properly preheated before adding the bread, as this will help create a crispy exterior quickly, locking in the moisture without allowing the bread to become mushy.
Can I Make Sourdough French Toast Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make Tangy French Toast ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. To store, place the cooked French toast slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through, or use a toaster oven for crispier results.
What Type of Milk Should I Use?
Whole milk is ideal for making French toast because it provides a rich, creamy texture. However, you can substitute it with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and consistency might change slightly.