what bread to use for french toast

Brioche or challah are usually the best breads for French toast because they’re rich, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to soak up the custard without falling apart. Thick-cut soft sandwich bread, French bread, or sourdough also work very well, especially if they’re a bit stale.

Best Breads for French Toast

• Brioche – Soft, buttery, slightly sweet, and absorbs custard beautifully while staying tender.

• Challah – Enriched, eggy bread (but made with oil instead of butter) that gives a rich flavor without being quite as buttery as brioche.

• Thick white sandwich bread / Texas toast – Easy to find, neutral flavor, and great when cut thick so it can soak up the custard without turning mushy.

• French bread or baguette – Slightly chewy and sturdy; excellent when a bit stale and great for stuffed French toast.

• Sourdough or artisan loaves – Give a tangy flavor and a nice chewy bite while still soaking up the custard.

What Makes a Bread “Good” for French Toast

• Soft but sturdy crumb that can soak up the egg mixture.

• Thick slices so the center turns custardy instead of soggy or falling apart.

• Slightly stale or day‑old is ideal because it absorbs more custard and browns better in the pan.

Quick Tips When Choosing

• For ultra‑indulgent brunch: pick brioche or challah.

• For everyday, budget‑friendly French toast: use thick‑cut sandwich bread or Texas toast.

• For something a bit different: try sourdough or French bread for more texture and flavor.

TL;DR: If you’re standing in the bread aisle wondering what bread to use for French toast, reach for brioche or challah first; if those aren’t available, any thick-sliced, slightly stale white, French, or sourdough loaf will still give excellent results.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.