Make your weekend brunch special with this sourdough french toast recipe. It’s easy to turn leftover sourdough bread into a tasty breakfast. In just 20 minutes, you can have fluffy, golden-brown french toast ready for your guests or family.
Sourdough’s thick texture keeps it from getting soggy while soaking up the egg mixture. It’s flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and just the right sweetness. This recipe uses simple ingredients like milk, eggs, and honey, making it easy to prepare.
Key Takeaways
- Sourdough bread’s structure allows for better liquid absorption without collapsing
- Recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for a quick weekend brunch
- Utilizes simple pantry ingredients like eggs, milk, and honey for a comforting flavor
- Crisp exterior and soft, custard-like interior create the perfect french toast texture
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting milk and cream with plant-based alternatives
Why Sourdough Makes the Perfect French Toast Base
Day-old stale sourdough bread is key for the best sourdough french toast. It’s sturdy and slightly dry, making it great for soaking up egg mixture. This keeps the texture just right.
Benefits of Using Day-Old Sourdough
Sourdough bread is stronger than soft breads like brioche. It can handle the egg mixture without falling apart. It’s also better for those with mild gluten issues because it has less gluten.
Texture and Absorption Properties
The french toast texture with sourdough is unmatched. The bread gets custardy inside while staying crispy outside. This mix of textures makes sourdough french toast special.
Nutritional Advantages of Sourdough
Sourdough is not just tasty; it’s also good for you. It’s a prebiotic that helps healthy gut bacteria grow. It might even control blood sugar better than white bread.
“The slightly stale and sturdy texture of day-old sourdough is perfect for french toast, allowing it to soak up the custard without falling apart.”
Essential Ingredients for Sourdough French Toast
Making perfect sourdough french toast begins with the right ingredients. The main ingredient is sourdough bread. Use day-old, 1-inch thick slices for the best results. This stale bread soaks up the egg mixture, making it custard-like inside.
To create the creamy custard, you need eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream. Choose pasture-raised eggs and full-fat dairy for the best taste and nutrition. Add honey or maple syrup for sweetness, vanilla extract for flavor, and cinnamon for spice.
For cooking the french toast, use real, salted Irish butter. This butter makes the exterior crispy and golden.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sourdough Bread | 8 slices, 1-inch thick |
| Eggs | 4 medium |
| Whole Milk | 100 ml (1/2 cup) |
| Heavy Cream | 2 1/2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Nutmeg (ground) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Butter (for cooking) | 30 grams (2 tablespoons) |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make delicious sourdough french toast. The quality of the sourdough bread is key. Choose a locally-sourced or artisanal loaf for the best flavor and texture.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
Making delicious sourdough French toast at home is easier with the right tools. You’ll need everything from cookware to mixing and measuring tools. Let’s look at the key items for the perfect brunch dish.
Essential Cookware
A non-stick pan or cast-iron skillet is crucial for French toast. These french toast cookware pieces ensure even heat and easy food release. A large mixing bowl is also key for whisking the custard mixture.
Mixing and Measuring Tools
When mixing the custard, precision is important. A whisk or electric egg mixer is perfect for the egg-milk mixture. You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons for the kitchen tools like milk, eggs, and spices.
Optional Accessories
Some baking equipment can make French toast easier to make. A KitchenAid mixer is great for homemade sourdough bread. Stainless steel bread pans and a shallow baking dish are also useful for soaking and warming the bread.
With these tools, you’ll make the best sourdough French toast. It’s perfect for brunch or a lazy weekend morning.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Sourdough French Toast
Ready to make amazing sourdough french toast? Follow these easy steps for a brunch that tastes like a restaurant. You’ll need just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. Soon, you’ll be enjoying the creamiest, most delicious sourdough french toast at home.
- Begin by cutting your sourdough bread into 1-inch thick slices. This thickness is key for a crispy outside and a soft, custard-like inside.
- In a shallow bowl, mix 3 eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This egg custard mixture is crucial for how to make sourdough french toast success.
- Place the sourdough bread slices in the custard mixture and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This step helps the bread soak up all the flavors.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Then, carefully place the soaked bread slices on the hot surface. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown.
- After flipping the french toast recipe steps, lower the heat to low. This lets the inside cook without burning the outside.
- Finally, serve your sourdough french toast warm. Top it with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
With this simple how to make sourdough french toast guide, you’ll be making the most delicious sourdough french toast in no time. Bon appétit!
The Perfect Egg Custard Mixture
Creating the perfect sourdough french toast starts with the egg custard mixture. It’s all about the right milk-to-egg ratio and adding the perfect seasonings. This mix gives the french toast a creamy, custard-like texture.
Ideal Milk-to-Egg Ratio
For a creamier french toast, use 1/2 cup of milk for every 1 egg. This balance makes sure the custard fully coats the bread. Adding a bit of heavy cream can make it even richer.
Seasoning and Flavoring Options
- Sweeten the custard with a touch of honey or maple syrup.
- Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth and depth.
- A dash of salt helps to balance and elevate the overall taste.
Proper Soaking Techniques
To soak the sourdough bread well, let it sit for about 10 minutes. Gently press down on the crusts to coat them evenly. This step is key for that custardy interior.
With the right custard ratio, seasonings, and soaking, you’re set to make amazing sourdough french toast. It’s sure to wow your brunch guests.
Cooking Temperature and Timing Tips
Creating the perfect sourdough French toast requires the right cooking temperature and timing. To get a golden-brown outside and a soft inside, follow these easy steps.
Begin by heating your skillet or griddle to medium-high heat. This high heat will sear the bread, keeping flavors locked in and making it crispy. Once it’s hot, place the soaked bread slices on the pan.
After 3-4 minutes, or when the bottom is golden, flip the French toast. Reduce the heat to medium-low to cook the inside without burning the outside. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, watching closely to avoid over-browning.
The goal is to have a crispy outside and a soft inside. Adjust the heat as needed. Make sure the inside is fully cooked, with no soggy spots.
| Cooking Stage | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Searing | Medium-High | 3-4 minutes |
| Cooking Through | Medium-Low | 3-4 minutes |
By following these french toast cooking temperature and how long to cook french toast tips, you’ll make delicious sourdough French toast. It will surely please your taste buds.
Creative Toppings and Garnishes
Make your sourdough french toast even better with fun toppings and garnishes. There’s more than just maple syrup and powdered sugar to try.
Classic Toppings
- Creamy butter
- Rich maple syrup
- Lightly dusted powdered sugar
Seasonal Fruit Options
Use fresh seasonal fruits to add flavor and health to your french toast. Try berries, sliced bananas, juicy peaches, crisp apples, or sweet pears.
Specialty Syrups and Sauces
Try homemade treats like tangy lemon curd, rich blueberry compote, or flavored maple syrup. For something different, add bacon, creamy avocado, or delicate smoked salmon.
There are countless ways to top your gourmet french toast. Mix sweet and savory to find your favorite. Your taste buds will love it, whether you choose classic or something new.
Make-Ahead and Storage Methods
Sourdough French Toast is great because you can make it ahead of time. It’s perfect for saving time or having a tasty breakfast ready. Here are my best tips for storing it.
Storing French toast is easy. After it cools, put the slices in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days. It’s ready to be reheated whenever you want.
Want to freeze it for longer? No issue! Wrap each slice in wax paper or plastic wrap. Then, put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, your French toast stays fresh for 3 months. Just thaw and reheat in the toaster or oven.
Remember, Sourdough French Toast is best served fresh and warm. Enjoy it as soon as you can for the best taste.
With these simple tips, you can have perfect Sourdough French Toast anytime. It’s great for brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast. These methods ensure you always have delicious French toast ready.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Sourdough French Toast
I’ve had my share of french toast mishaps in the kitchen. But with practice and these tips, you can avoid common mistakes. This way, you’ll serve perfect sourdough french toast every time. Let’s get started!
First, don’t use fresh bread. It’s too soft and won’t soak up the custard well. Choose day-old sourdough instead. It’s perfect for soaking up the eggy goodness.
Also, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the bread. This step is key for that golden-brown exterior we love. But watch the heat to avoid burnt slices. Adjust the temperature as needed for the perfect cook.
FAQ
What makes sourdough the perfect base for French toast?
Sourdough’s sturdy texture stops it from getting soggy. It has less gluten, which is easier for some to digest. It also helps your gut health and can control blood sugar.
What are the key ingredients for sourdough French toast?
You’ll need day-old sourdough bread, eggs, and whole milk. Add cream, honey or maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon. Using pasture-raised eggs and whole milk makes it taste better and is healthier.
What essential kitchen tools are needed for making sourdough French toast?
You’ll need a cast iron skillet or non-stick pan, a large bowl, and a whisk or egg mixer. Also, measuring cups and spoons, and a sharp knife for cutting the bread. You might also use a KitchenAid mixer, stainless steel pans, a shallow dish for soaking, and a baking tray with parchment paper.
What is the ideal ratio of milk to eggs for the custard mixture?
Use 1/2 cup of milk to 1 egg for a creamy mix. Adding cream makes it even richer.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making sourdough French toast?
Don’t use fresh bread because it’s too soft. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the bread. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning.
Don’t skip the salt in the mixture. Don’t overcrowd the pan and use bread slices that are not too thin. Make sure the egg mixture is smooth without streaks.