Does Sourdough Taste Good for French Toast? The Ultimate Guide

French toast is a breakfast classic loved for its rich, custardy texture and golden-brown crust. While traditional recipes often call for brioche or challah, sourdough bread has been gaining popularity for this dish. But does sourdough taste good for French toast? Absolutely! The tangy depth of sourdough balances beautifully with the sweetness of classic French toast toppings like maple syrup and powdered sugar.

In this article, we’ll explore why sourdough is a great choice, how it compares to other breads, and how to make the perfect sourdough French toast. We’ll also cover common mistakes, recipe variations, and how the French enjoy sourdough bread. Let’s dive in!

Learn more about Sourdough French Toast and discover how to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and custard-like texture.

Shocking Truth: Does Sourdough Taste Good for French Toast?

What Makes Sourdough Unique?

Sourdough bread stands apart from other types of bread due to its fermentation process. Unlike commercially produced bread, which uses instant yeast for quick rising, sourdough relies on wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria. This natural fermentation process gives sourdough its distinct tangy flavor and a chewy texture.

The key characteristics of sourdough include:

• A thick, crispy crust due to the long fermentation process.
• A chewy, airy crumb that results from natural leavening.
• A mildly sour taste from the fermentation of natural bacteria.

These factors contribute to why sourdough works differently from traditional French toast breads.

Flavor Profile of Sourdough Bread

Sourdough has a more complex flavor than standard white bread. The slight sourness adds depth, making it a perfect contrast to the sweetness of syrup, honey, or cinnamon. Some of the taste notes you’ll find in sourdough include:

• Mild tanginess from lactic acid.
• Subtle nuttiness depending on the flour used.
• A hint of sweetness if it’s made with a touch of honey or whole grains.

How Sourdough Texture Affects French Toast

One of the main challenges of using sourdough for French toast is its texture. Unlike soft breads like brioche or challah, sourdough has a sturdier, drier structure. This means it absorbs custard more slowly but holds up better when cooking.

When making French toast with sourdough, you’ll want to:

• Soak it a little longer than soft bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
• Use slightly stale sourdough to enhance absorption.
• Adjust cooking time to ensure the inside is fully cooked without burning the crust.

With these considerations, sourdough can make an excellent choice for French toast, offering a heartier bite and a unique taste experience.

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Why Sourdough Works Well for French Toast

Balancing Tangy and Sweet Flavors

One of the biggest reasons sourdough works so well for French toast is the balance of flavors. Traditional French toast is often very sweet, with ingredients like vanilla, cinnamon, and maple syrup taking center stage. Sourdough’s natural tanginess helps cut through that sweetness, adding complexity to the dish.

If you prefer a more well-rounded taste experience rather than just pure sweetness, sourdough is a fantastic option. The slightly sour notes complement toppings like:

• Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, or apples)
• Honey or maple syrup for a rich contrast
• Savory additions like cheese, or smoked salmon

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Sourdough’s Ability to Absorb Custard

Sourdough bread has a firmer crumb than soft white bread, which means it doesn’t turn mushy as easily when soaked in the egg mixture. This is a huge advantage because:

• It absorbs just the right amount of liquid without falling apart.
• It maintains structure even after soaking.
• It cooks evenly with a crisp exterior and a custardy interior.

To get the best results:

• Use day-old sourdough instead of fresh bread.
• Let the bread soak in the egg mixture for at least 30 seconds per side (or longer for a deeper soak).
• Avoid pressing the bread down, as this can make it too dense.

Crispiness vs. Softness: What to Expect

The way sourdough crisps up when cooked makes it a standout choice for French toast. The crust develops a beautiful golden-brown crispness, while the inside stays soft but not overly soggy.

• For a crispier texture, cook on medium heat for longer to allow the edges to caramelize.
• For a softer texture, cover the pan for part of the cooking time to let the steam soften the bread.

Sourdough French toast offers a satisfying contrast—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—making it one of the best bread options for those who enjoy a more substantial breakfast.

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How to Make the Best Sourdough French Toast

Choosing the Right Sourdough Loaf

Not all sourdough loaves are created equal when it comes to making French toast. The best options have a balance of structure, flavor, and absorbency.

What to Look for in a Sourdough Loaf

• Medium to thick slices (¾ to 1 inch) hold up best in the custard.
• A moderate crust—a very thick, hard crust may not soften enough.
• A slight chew—overly dense sourdough can make the final dish too heavy.
• Mild tanginess—strongly sour loaves may overpower sweet toppings.

For optimal results, use day-old or slightly stale bread. Fresh sourdough can be too moist, making it harder to soak up the custard evenly.

Best Egg Mixture for Sourdough French Toast

The custard mixture is the heart of any French toast recipe. A good balance of eggs, dairy, and flavoring is key to getting that rich, creamy texture.

Classic Sourdough French Toast Batter

• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or maple syrup for natural sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Why This Works Well with Sourdough

• Eggs provide structure, helping the custard bind to the denser bread.
• Dairy adds richness, making the inside creamy but not soggy.
• Sweeteners balance the tanginess of the bread without overpowering it.
• Cinnamon and vanilla enhance flavor and pair well with sourdough’s depth.

For an extra fluffy texture, blend the custard with a whisk or immersion blender before soaking the bread.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Texture

Once the sourdough has soaked up the custard, cooking it properly is essential for the perfect French toast.

Best Cooking Method for Sourdough French Toast

1. Preheat a skillet or griddle to medium-low heat.
2. Add butter (or a mix of butter and oil) to prevent sticking.
3. Cook each slice for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping when golden brown.
4. Press lightly with a spatula to ensure even browning but not so much that you squeeze out the custard.
5. Let it rest for 1-2 minutes before serving—this allows the custard to settle inside.

For extra crispiness, finish the slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes after pan-frying.

Common Mistakes When Using Sourdough for French Toast

Even though sourdough makes an excellent base for French toast, a few common mistakes can prevent you from getting the perfect texture and flavor. Here’s what to avoid:

Using Fresh vs. Stale Bread

One of the biggest mistakes when making French toast with sourdough is using fresh bread. Fresh sourdough is too soft and moist, making it harder to absorb the custard properly.

Why Stale Bread Works Better

• Absorbs the custard more evenly without becoming too soggy.
• Holds its structure better when cooking.
• Develops a crispier crust when fried.

Fix: If your bread is fresh, slice it and let it sit out overnight. If you’re in a hurry, lightly toast the slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes to dry them out slightly.

Over- or Under-Soaking the Bread

Soaking the bread too little or too much can lead to poor texture.

Signs of Under-Soaking:

• The bread stays dry in the center after cooking.
• The custard doesn’t fully penetrate the slice.

Fix: Let sourdough soak in the custard mixture for 30-45 seconds per side to ensure even absorption.

Signs of Over-Soaking:

• The bread falls apart before you can transfer it to the pan.
• It turns out soggy rather than custardy inside.

Fix: If you accidentally over-soak the bread, let it rest for a minute before cooking to allow excess custard to drip off.

Cooking on the Wrong Temperature

Temperature control is crucial when making French toast.

• Too high: The outside burns before the inside is fully cooked.
• Too low: The toast turns out soft and greasy instead of crisp.

Fix: Use medium-low heat and cook for 3-4 minutes per side. If needed, finish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to ensure the inside is set.

Skipping the Butter (or Using Too Much)

Butter adds flavor and helps create a golden crust, but too much can cause burning.

Fix: Use a mix of butter and oil—butter for flavor, and oil to prevent burning. Wipe the pan between batches if needed to avoid burnt butter residue.

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Comparing Sourdough to Other French Toast Breads

While sourdough is an excellent choice for French toast, it’s not the only option. Different breads create different textures and flavors. Let’s compare how sourdough stacks up against other popular choices.

How Sourdough Compares to Brioche and Challah

Key Takeaways:

• Sourdough offers a more balanced contrast between tangy and sweet.
• Brioche and challah are softer and more delicate, perfect for those who prefer a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Sourdough holds up better in soaking, making it ideal for a crispier and heartier French toast.

White Bread vs. Whole Wheat vs. Sourdough

Which Bread Holds Up the Best?

• For a classic, soft French toast, brioche or challah are the best options.
• For a budget-friendly choice, white bread works well but can get soggy fast.
• For a healthy option, whole wheat is great, though it’s denser.
• For a unique, flavorful twist, sourdough is the winner.

Classic and Creative Sourdough French Toast Recipes

Sourdough French toast can be made in many ways, from a traditional sweet version to more unique savory and stuffed variations. Below are some of the best ways to prepare and enjoy sourdough French toast.

Traditional Sourdough French Toast Recipe

This classic version balances the tangy flavor of sourdough with a rich, custardy texture and crispy edges.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices sourdough bread (preferably day-old)
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or maple syrup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Dip each slice of sourdough into the mixture for 30-45 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb custard.
3. Heat butter in a pan over medium-low heat and cook each slice for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh fruit.

Savory Sourdough French Toast Variations

For those who prefer a more balanced, non-sweet breakfast, savory French toast is a great option.

Cheesy Garlic Sourdough French Toast

• Omit the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla from the egg mixture.
• Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon black pepper instead.
• Cook as usual, then top with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Serve with avocado, smoked salmon, or poached eggs.

Herb and Cheese Stuffed Sourdough French Toast

• Slice sourdough thick and cut a small pocket in each slice.
• Stuff with a mix of cream cheese, fresh basil, and shredded cheddar.
• Soak in a savory egg mixture (egg, milk, salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce).
• Cook as usual and serve with a side of roasted tomatoes or sautéed spinach.

Stuffed and Flavored Sourdough French Toast Ideas

How to Make Stuffed Sourdough French Toast:

1. Slice sourdough ¾-1 inch thick and cut a small pocket in each slice.
2. Fill with a sweet or savory filling (avoid overstuffing).
3. Dip in the egg mixture and cook on medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes per side to ensure the inside melts.
4. Serve with complementary toppings for extra flavor.

French Influence on Sourdough and French Toast

Sourdough bread and French toast both have deep historical roots, but do they intersect in traditional French cuisine? Let’s explore how the French incorporate sourdough and how their version of French toast differs from what we know today.

Do the French Eat Sourdough Bread?

Yes! In fact, sourdough has a long-standing history in France. The country is famous for its “pain au levain,” a naturally fermented sourdough bread.

Why the French Love Sourdough:

• Naturally leavened: Unlike store-bought breads with commercial yeast, sourdough is made using a starter, giving it a unique tangy flavor.
• Long fermentation process: This improves digestibility and enhances the depth of flavor.
• Crispy crust and chewy interior: Perfect for pairing with cheeses, soups, and pâtés.

French sourdough is commonly used in sandwiches, tartines (open-faced sandwiches), and alongside rich, creamy dishes. However, the French typically do not use sourdough for their version of French toast.

How French Toast Differs in France

The dish we call “French toast” is known as “pain perdu” in France, which translates to “lost bread.” This name comes from the idea of using stale or leftover bread to prevent waste.

Key Differences Between Pain Perdu and American French Toast:

In France, pain perdu is often enjoyed as a dessert or afternoon snack, whereas in the U.S., it’s a breakfast staple.

Blending French Techniques with Sourdough

If you love the idea of combining French culinary tradition with sourdough, try making a pain perdu-inspired sourdough French toast by:

• Using thinner slices of sourdough to create a more delicate texture.
• Soaking the bread longer (1-2 minutes per side) for a softer, custard-like feel.
• Cooking over low heat to prevent the crust from getting too crispy.
• Serving with honey and fresh fruit instead of heavy syrups.

This method gives you the best of both worlds—a slightly tangy, flavorful French toast with the classic richness of pain perdu.

Pairing and Serving Sourdough French Toast

Sourdough French toast is incredibly versatile, pairing well with both sweet and savory ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic breakfast, a gourmet twist, or a healthy option, here are the best ways to serve and enjoy it.

Best Syrups and Toppings for Sourdough French Toast

Since sourdough has a tangy undertone, choosing the right toppings enhances its flavor balance.

Classic Sweet Toppings:

• Maple syrup – A rich, traditional choice that complements the tangy notes of sourdough.
• Powdered sugar – Lightly dusting it over warm toast adds sweetness without overpowering.
• Honey – A natural sweetener that blends well with sourdough’s complex flavor.
• Fresh fruit – Strawberries, blueberries, bananas, or figs add a fresh, juicy contrast.

Decadent & Gourmet Toppings:

• Whipped cream & berries – Perfect for a brunch-style treat.
• Caramelized bananas – Adds a deep, caramelized sweetness to balance the sourdough.
• Nutella & chopped hazelnuts – A chocolate-lover’s dream.
• Mascarpone cheese & honey drizzle – A creamy, luxurious pairing.

Savory Toppings for a Unique Twist:

• Avocado & poached egg – A delicious blend of creamy, rich flavors.
• Smoked salmon & cream cheese – A fancy, brunch-inspired option.
• Sautéed mushrooms & goat cheese – A gourmet-style, umami-rich combination.

Sweet vs. Savory Sourdough French Toast Pairings

If you can’t decide whether to go sweet or savory, here’s a quick guide:

What Drinks Complement Sourdough French Toast?

The right drink enhances the flavors of your dish.

• Coffee (black or latte) – The boldness of coffee pairs well with both sweet and savory versions.
• Fresh orange juice – The acidity complements the tangy and rich flavors of sourdough.
• Chai tea or spiced latte – Perfect if your French toast has warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Mimosas or Prosecco – Ideal for a brunch setting with gourmet toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sourdough French Toast

What is the best bread for French toast?

The best bread for French toast depends on your preferred texture and flavor. Common choices include:

• Brioche – Soft, buttery, and rich, making for a custardy texture.
• Challah – Slightly firmer than brioche but still rich and eggy.
• Sourdough – Tangy, chewy, and sturdy enough to hold custard well.
• French baguette – Great for a firmer, more rustic French toast.

Sourdough is a fantastic option if you like a balance of tanginess and crispiness with a slight chew.

What is the most common mistake in making French toast?

The most common mistakes when making French toast include:

1. Using fresh bread – Too soft and doesn’t absorb custard properly. Use day-old or slightly stale bread.
2. Over- or under-soaking – Not soaking long enough leads to dry toast; too long makes it mushy.
3. Cooking at the wrong temperature – Too high burns the outside while leaving the inside raw; too low makes it greasy.
4. Skipping the resting step – Letting the toast sit for a minute before serving helps the custard set.

Does sourdough bread make good toast?

Yes! Sourdough makes excellent toast due to its sturdy structure and deep flavor. When toasted, it develops a crispy crust while maintaining a chewy interior. It also pairs well with:

• Butter and jam for a simple breakfast.
• Avocado and eggs for a savory twist.
• Honey and nuts for a sweet yet nutritious option.

Do the French eat sourdough bread?

Yes, the French commonly eat sourdough bread, known as “pain au levain.” It is a staple in French bakeries and is often enjoyed with cheese, soup, or as part of a traditional breakfast.

However, the French typically make their version of French toast (pain perdu) with brioche or baguette, rather than sourdough.

Conclusion: Is Sourdough a Good Choice for French Toast?

Summary of Benefits and Considerations

Sourdough is a great choice for French toast if you’re looking for a heartier, more flavorful alternative to soft breads like brioche. It offers:

• A balanced flavor – The tanginess contrasts beautifully with sweet toppings.
• A sturdy texture – Holds up well in custard without becoming soggy.
• A crispy, golden crust – Provides a satisfying crunch when cooked properly.

However, it requires a longer soaking time and a slightly different cooking method to achieve the best results.

Who Should Try Sourdough for French Toast?

• Anyone who enjoys a chewy, crispy texture.
• People who prefer a less sugary breakfast.
• Those looking for a unique twist on traditional French toast.

Final Verdict on Sourdough French Toast

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and satisfying textures, sourdough French toast is definitely worth trying. Whether you go for a classic, sweet version or a savory gourmet spin, it’s a delicious way to enjoy this breakfast favorite!