30-Minute Overnight Sourdough French Toast
Rich, custardy French toast made with sourdough bread that's soaked overnight in a luxurious milk and cream mixture. The bread absorbs all the flavors, creating an incredibly tender interior with a golden, crispy exterior. Topped with cinnamon-spiced caramelized apples that add natural sweetness and warmth. Perfect for special weekend breakfasts, holiday mornings, or when entertaining guests. The overnight soaking eliminates morning prep work while delivering restaurant-quality results.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 6 slices sourdough bread
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 apples, peeled, cored and cut into eighths
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- 1
Whisk together milk, cream, eggs, vanilla and honey until well combined
- 2
Place sourdough slices flat in a dish large enough to hold them
- 3
Pour egg mixture over bread just to cover
- 4
Soak overnight in refrigerator
- 5
Heat butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat
- 6
Carefully place soaked sourdough in the hot buttered pan
- 7
Cook until golden brown on both sides
- 8
Remove from pan and place in a 300°F oven to finish cooking
- 9
Add more butter to the same pan
- 10
Add apples and saute until colored
- 11
Add brown sugar and cinnamon and allow apples to caramelize
- 12
Remove toast from oven and top with caramelized apples
Tips
Use day-old bread for better absorption and structure when soaking overnight
Keep finished toast warm in a low oven while cooking remaining slices
Don't oversoak delicate breads or they may fall apart when cooking
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat in toaster oven or low oven.
Bread can be soaked overnight as directed. Apples can be caramelized earlier and reheated.
Serve immediately while hot. Top with butter, syrup, or powdered sugar if desired.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the overnight soak or toast won't be custardy
Use medium heat to avoid burning the exterior before interior cooks
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, brioche, challah, or thick-cut white bread work well. Avoid thin sandwich bread as it may fall apart.
What if I don't have time to soak overnight?
Soak for at least 30 minutes, though overnight gives the best texture and flavor absorption.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in toaster oven or low oven until warmed through.