Sandwich bread is the worst choice for French toast due to its tendency to become soggy, the lack of flavor, and its poor structural integrity. The bread absorbs the egg mixture too quickly, falls apart easily, and lacks a satisfying crust. Instead, opt for denser, flavorful breads like brioche, challah, or French baguette for a superior French toast experience.
French toast is a beloved breakfast classic that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a dish that can transform a simple morning meal into something truly special. However, if you're using sandwich bread to make your French toast, you might be doing yourself a disservice. While it might seem like a convenient option, sandwich bread is actually the worst choice for creating this delicious dish. From its tendency to become soggy to its lack of flavor and structural integrity, sandwich bread simply doesn't measure up.
One of the biggest issues with sandwich bread is its tendency to become soggy. Sandwich bread is typically very soft and thin, which means it absorbs the egg mixture too quickly and doesn't hold up well during cooking. The result? A mushy, unappetizing mess that lacks the crispy exterior and custardy interior that make French toast so delightful.
Sandwich bread is often bland and lacks the depth of flavor needed to make truly great French toast. This type of bread is designed to be a neutral base for sandwiches, not a star ingredient in a dish. When you use sandwich bread, you're missing out on the rich, complex flavors that come from using a more robust bread. The result is a French toast that tastes flat and uninspired.
Another problem with sandwich bread is its lack of structural integrity. Because it's so thin and soft, it tends to fall apart easily when soaked in the egg mixture. This makes it difficult to handle and cook without breaking. A good French toast should be able to hold its shape and have a satisfying bite, something that sandwich bread simply can't provide.
The crust on sandwich bread is often too thin and soft to add any real texture to your French toast. A thicker, sturdier crust can provide a nice contrast to the soft interior, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor. With sandwich bread, you lose out on this important element, resulting in a one-dimensional dish.
So, what type of bread should you use for French toast? The best options are those with a denser texture and richer flavor. Brioche, challah, and French baguette are all excellent choices. These breads have a sturdy structure that can stand up to the egg mixture without becoming soggy, and their rich flavors add depth to the dish. Brioche and challah, in particular, have a slight sweetness that pairs perfectly with the custardy egg mixture, making for a truly decadent French toast experience.