What Type of Sourdough Bread Is Best for French Toast?

French toast is a beloved breakfast classic, and sourdough bread adds a unique tangy flavor and chewy texture. But not all sourdough loaves are ideal for this dish. The best options are absorbent yet not too dense, with a firm crust that holds up during cooking. In this guide, we’ll explore why sourdough works well for French toast, key factors to consider, and the best varieties—whether classic white, whole wheat, or multigrain—to help you create the perfect golden, custardy bite.

Why Sourdough Bread is Great for French Toast

French toast is all about texture and flavor, and sourdough bread brings unique characteristics that make it an excellent choice. Unlike standard white bread or even richer options like brioche, sourdough has a distinct taste and structure that enhance the final dish.

1. Unique Tangy Flavor

Sourdough bread is naturally fermented, which gives it a mild to strong tangy taste depending on the fermentation process. This subtle sourness contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of traditional French toast ingredients like maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla. It creates a more complex and satisfying flavor profile compared to neutral-tasting bread.

2. Chewy and Sturdy Texture

One of the biggest issues with soft breads is that they can become too soggy when soaked in an egg mixture. Sourdough, on the other hand, has a firm, chewy crumb that holds up well when dipped into custard. This ensures that your French toast has a creamy center without falling apart.

3. Excellent Absorption Without Falling Apart

Sourdough’s open crumb structure allows it to soak up the egg mixture evenly without becoming mushy. Some breads either don’t absorb enough liquid or soak up too much and disintegrate, but sourdough strikes the perfect balance, resulting in a custardy yet firm texture after cooking.

4. Crispier Crust for Added Texture

French toast made with soft white bread often lacks texture on the edges. However, sourdough has a slightly thicker crust that crisps up beautifully when cooked. This creates a contrast between the crispy outer layer and the soft interior, making each bite more satisfying.

5. Healthier Choice Compared to Other Breads

Since sourdough is naturally fermented, it contains beneficial bacteria and lower levels of phytic acid, which may make it easier to digest than regular white bread. Additionally, it has a lower glycemic index, meaning it won’t spike your blood sugar as quickly as traditional bread options.

6. Versatile for Sweet and Savory French Toast

While classic French toast is sweet, sourdough’s balanced flavor also makes it a great choice for savory variations. You can pair it with cheese, eggs, or even avocado for a more filling and protein-rich breakfast option.

Sourdough’s combination of structure, flavor, and absorption makes it one of the best bread choices for French toast. However, not all sourdough loaves are ideal for this dish. In the next section, we’ll discuss what to look for when choosing the perfect sourdough for French toast.

Key Factors in Choosing the Best Sourdough for French Toast

Not all sourdough breads are the same, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in how your French toast turns out. The perfect sourdough for French toast should be absorbent yet sturdy, flavorful but not overpowering. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting the best sourdough bread for your French toast.

1. Density and Crumb Structure

The texture of sourdough bread is crucial for making French toast. A loaf that is too dense won’t soak up enough custard, while one that is too airy may fall apart when cooking. Look for a moderate crumb structure—open enough to absorb the egg mixture but firm enough to maintain its shape.

• Too dense (bad choice): Heavy sourdough with an extremely tight crumb won’t allow enough custard absorption.
• Too airy (risky choice): Super light and holey sourdough may let too much custard leak through, resulting in uneven texture.
• Best choice: A medium-crumb sourdough that absorbs the mixture evenly while holding its structure.

2. Freshness: Day-Old or Slightly Stale is Best

While fresh sourdough is delicious for sandwiches, it’s not ideal for French toast. Slightly stale bread (1–2 days old) is the best choice because it absorbs more liquid without turning mushy.

If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by:

• Leaving slices uncovered overnight.
• Toasting them lightly in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for 10 minutes before soaking.

3. Crust Thickness

Sourdough has a naturally thick crust, which can add a nice crunch to French toast. However, if the crust is too tough, it may be difficult to bite into after cooking.

• If your sourdough has an extra-thick crust, consider trimming it slightly.
• If the crust is medium-thick and chewy, it will provide a satisfying contrast to the soft interior.

4. Hydration Level of the Bread

Sourdough breads can have different hydration levels, meaning some are moister than others. A hydration level of 65–75% (moderate moisture) works best for French toast because it absorbs liquid well without becoming too soft.

• Low hydration (dry, dense bread): Won’t soak up enough custard.
• Very high hydration (extra-soft bread): May become too mushy.
• Moderate hydration: The best option for a creamy yet firm French toast texture.

5. Flavor Profile: Mild vs. Strong Tanginess

Sourdough can range from mildly tangy to very sour depending on the fermentation process. While a little tanginess is great for adding depth to French toast, an overly sour bread might clash with sweet toppings.

• Mildly tangy sourdough: Ideal for classic French toast with syrup and fruit.
• Strongly sour sourdough: Works better for savory French toast variations.

6. Slicing Thickness

The thickness of your sourdough slices will affect how your French toast cooks. Ideally, slices should be ¾ inch to 1 inch (2–2.5 cm) thick to create the perfect balance between crispy edges and a custardy center.

• Too thin (<½ inch): Toast may become dry and crisp without a soft interior.
• Too thick (>1.5 inches): The center may remain undercooked and soggy.
• Best thickness: Around 1 inch for the perfect texture.

7. Pre-Sliced vs. Whole Loaf

If possible, choose a whole sourdough loaf and slice it yourself. This gives you control over the thickness and ensures even slices. Pre-sliced sourdough can sometimes be too thin or uneven for making great French toast.

Final Considerations

The best sourdough for French toast should be:
✔ Medium crumb (not too dense or too airy)
✔ Day-old or slightly stale for better absorption
✔ Moderate crust thickness (not too tough)
✔ Mild to medium tanginess for a balanced flavor
✔ 1-inch thick slices for the best texture

Best Types of Sourdough Bread for French Toast

Now that we know what makes a great sourdough for French toast, let’s explore different types of sourdough and how they perform in this dish. While all sourdough varieties share common qualities like a chewy texture and tangy flavor, some are better suited for French toast than others.

1. Classic White Sourdough – Best for Traditional French Toast

White sourdough is the most commonly available type and is an excellent choice for French toast due to its balanced texture and mild tangy flavor.

✔ Why It Works Well:

• Medium density allows for excellent absorption without falling apart.
• Mild tangy flavor complements both sweet and savory toppings.
• Slightly crispy crust adds a good contrast to the soft interior.

✔ Best for:

• Classic sweet French toast with maple syrup, berries, and powdered sugar.
• Savory French toast with eggs, cheese, and bacon.

2. Whole Wheat Sourdough – Best for a Hearty and Nutty Flavor

Whole wheat sourdough has a denser texture and a slightly nutty taste, making it a healthier and more filling option.

✔ Why It Works Well:

• Higher fiber content makes it more nutritious than white sourdough.
• Adds a subtle nuttiness that pairs well with honey, nuts, and fruits.
• Slightly more absorbent, creating a rich, custardy texture.

✔ Best for:

• Healthier French toast with Greek yogurt, honey, and nuts.
• Cinnamon-spiced French toast with bananas and walnuts.

🚨 Caution: Whole wheat sourdough can sometimes be too dense, so it’s best to slice it a little thinner (about ¾ inch) and soak it slightly longer.

3. Rye Sourdough – Best for a Strong, Earthy Flavor

Rye sourdough is known for its deep, earthy flavor and dense structure. It has a more pronounced tang and works well with bold ingredients.

✔ Why It Works Well:

• Adds a complex, slightly spicy flavor that enhances sweet and savory variations.
• Dense structure absorbs liquid well while maintaining a firm bite.
• Pairs beautifully with cinnamon, nutmeg, and dark chocolate.

✔ Best for:

• European-style French toast with spiced apples, brown sugar, and pecans.
• Savory French toast with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill.

🚨 Caution: Rye sourdough has a stronger taste that may not be ideal for traditional sweet French toast. It’s best for those who enjoy more robust flavors.

4. Multigrain Sourdough – Best for Extra Crunch and Texture

Multigrain sourdough is made with a mix of whole grains and seeds, adding extra crunch and complexity.

✔ Why It Works Well:

• Unique texture adds extra crunch and a satisfying bite.
• The nutty, slightly sweet flavor pairs well with honey, fruits, and nuts.
• More fiber and nutrients compared to plain white sourdough.

✔ Best for:

• Gourmet French toast with almond butter, fresh figs, and honey.
• Autumn-inspired French toast with pumpkin spice, pecans, and maple syrup.

🚨 Caution: Some multigrain sourdoughs have large seeds that may become too crunchy after cooking. If using this type, opt for loaves with smaller seeds like flax or sesame.

5. Sourdough Brioche – Best for an Extra Soft and Buttery Texture

Sourdough brioche combines the richness of brioche with the tangy flavor of sourdough. This makes it one of the most indulgent options for French toast.

✔ Why It Works Well:

• Buttery and soft, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Mild tanginess enhances the sweetness of the dish.
• Absorbs custard exceptionally well without becoming too dense.

✔ Best for:

• Decadent French toast with caramelized bananas and whipped cream.
• Classic French toast with vanilla and cinnamon.

🚨 Caution: Sourdough brioche is richer and softer than traditional sourdough, so it may require less soaking time to avoid becoming too soggy.

Final Verdict: Which Type of Sourdough is the Best?

Each type of sourdough brings something special to French toast. If you want a classic and versatile choice, go with white sourdough. If you prefer a healthier, nuttier option, whole wheat or multigrain sourdough is a great pick. For a stronger, more unique taste, rye sourdough works best. And if you want something extra soft and indulgent, sourdough brioche is the ultimate choice.

Best Practices for Using Sourdough in French Toast

Choosing the right sourdough is only half the battle—preparing it correctly ensures you get a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, custardy center. Follow these best practices for slicing, drying, soaking, and cooking sourdough French toast to perfection.

1. Slice the Bread to the Right Thickness

Slicing your sourdough properly ensures even absorption and cooking.

✔ Ideal Thickness: ¾ inch to 1 inch (2–2.5 cm)

• Thinner slices (<½ inch) may become too crispy and lose the creamy center.
• Thicker slices (>1.5 inches) may not cook through properly, leaving an undercooked center.

✔ Pro Tip: If using dense sourdough, slice it slightly thinner (¾ inch) for better absorption.

2. Use Day-Old or Slightly Stale Bread

Fresh bread can be too soft, leading to a mushy texture. Slightly stale sourdough absorbs the custard evenly without falling apart.

✔ How to Stale Bread Quickly:

• Leave slices out overnight uncovered on a wire rack.
• Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 10 minutes to dry out fresh bread before soaking.

🚨 Avoid completely dry or rock-hard sourdough—it won’t absorb custard well and may stay dry inside.

3. Prepare the Perfect Egg Mixture

The custard mixture determines the richness and flavor of your French toast.

✔ Basic Custard Recipe:

• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk or cream
• 1 tbsp sugar (adjust for sweetness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

✔ Pro Tips:

• Use heavy cream for a richer texture.
• For extra fluffy French toast, add 1 tbsp of flour to help the custard stick to the bread.
• If making savory French toast, omit sugar and cinnamon, and add salt, pepper, and herbs instead.

4. Soak the Bread Properly

Sourdough absorbs liquid more slowly than brioche or challah, so soaking time is key.

✔ Soaking Guidelines:

• Thinner slices (¾ inch): Soak for 15–20 seconds per side.
• Thicker slices (1 inch+): Soak for 30–45 seconds per side.

✔ Pro Tip: Let the soaked bread rest for 2–3 minutes before cooking to ensure the custard is fully absorbed.

🚨 Don’t oversoak—if the bread gets too soggy, it may fall apart or turn mushy inside.

5. Use the Right Pan and Cooking Method

Cooking sourdough French toast properly ensures a crispy, golden crust without burning.

✔ Best Cooking Surface:

• Non-stick or cast-iron skillet (distributes heat evenly).
• Griddle for cooking multiple slices at once.

✔ Cooking Temperature:

• Medium-low to medium heat allows the inside to cook through without burning the outside.
• Avoid high heat, as sourdough crusts can burn quickly while the inside remains raw.

✔ Cooking Time:

• 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.

🚨 Avoid pressing the bread down with a spatula—this squeezes out the custard and results in dry French toast.

6. Butter vs. Oil: Which is Better?

The right fat choice affects the texture and flavor of your French toast.

✔ Best Options:

• Butter: Adds rich flavor but can burn quickly. Use low heat.
• Neutral oil (canola, avocado oil): Prevents burning but lacks flavor.
• Best combo: Use butter + oil for the best balance of flavor and even browning.

7. Rest and Serve Immediately

Once cooked, let your French toast rest for 1–2 minutes before serving to allow the custard to set. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Final Tips for Perfect Sourdough French Toast

✔ Use 1-inch thick slices for a crispy outside and soft inside.
✔ Use day-old bread for better absorption and texture.
✔ Don’t oversoak—15 to 45 seconds is enough.
✔ Cook on medium heat with butter and oil for even browning.
✔ Let it rest for 1–2 minutes before serving for the best texture.

FAQs About Sourdough French Toast

Here are answers to some common questions about making French toast with sourdough bread.

1. Is sourdough bread better than brioche or challah for French toast?

✔ It depends on your preference!

• Brioche and challah are rich, soft, and naturally sweet, making them ideal for classic French toast.
• Sourdough has a firmer texture and tangy flavor, giving French toast a more complex taste and chewy bite.
• If you prefer a more balanced, slightly tangy flavor with a crispy crust, sourdough is a great choice!

2. Why is my sourdough French toast soggy?

🚨 Possible reasons:

• Bread was too fresh instead of slightly stale.
• Slices were too thin and over-soaked.
• Too much custard was absorbed, making it overly wet inside.
• The pan temperature was too low, leading to slow cooking and excess moisture.

✔ Fix: Use day-old bread, cut it ¾–1 inch thick, soak it just enough to absorb custard, and cook at medium-low to medium heat for a crisp finish.

3. Can I make dairy-free sourdough French toast?

✔ Yes! Replace dairy with:

• Milk alternatives: Almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk.
• Cream alternatives: Coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Butter alternatives: Coconut oil, vegan butter, or neutral oils (like avocado or canola).

🚨 Tip: Non-dairy milks can be thinner than regular milk, so add ½ tsp cornstarch or flour to thicken the custard.

Conclusion

Sourdough French toast is a delicious twist on the classic dish, offering a unique balance of tangy flavor, crispy crust, and a soft, custardy center. Unlike traditional breads like brioche or challah, sourdough brings a chewy texture and slight sourness that pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings.

Whether you enjoy classic sweet flavors or prefer a more gourmet approach, sourdough French toast is a versatile, flavorful, and satisfying breakfast choice. With the right techniques, you can elevate your morning meal into a restaurant-quality dish!