The Basic, Classic Cinnamon Toast

Cinnamon toast is the ultimate simple comfort food. It’s quick, easy, and feels like a warm hug. Here’s a guide to making it perfectly, from the basic method to the ultimate gourmet version.

The Basic, Classic Cinnamon Toast

This is the quick method you probably grew up with.

Ingredients:

• Bread (white, wheat, or brioche)

• Softened butter or margarine

• Granulated sugar

• Ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Toast the Bread: Toast your bread in a toaster until golden.

2. Butter: Immediately spread a generous layer of softened butter on the hot toast. This helps it melt and soak in.

3. Sprinkle: In a small bowl, mix together 1-2 tablespoons of sugar with ½ to 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (adjust to your taste). Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered toast.

The Ultimate (Baked) Cinnamon Toast

This method is a game-changer. The topping bakes into a slightly crispy, caramelized crust that is irresistible. It’s sometimes called “Sugar Toast” or “Cinnamon Sugar Toast.”

Ingredients (for 2 slices):

• 2 slices of bread (thick-sliced or brioche works best)

• 2 tablespoons softened butter

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• A tiny pinch of salt (enhances flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or use the broil function (watch closely if broiling!).

2. Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until it forms a paste.

3. Spread: Spread the cinnamon-butter paste evenly over the bread slices, going all the way to the edges.

4. Bake: Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and the edges of the bread are crisp. For a more caramelized top, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes.

5. Serve: Let it cool for a minute before serving—the sugar will be extremely hot!

Pro-Tips for the Best Cinnamon Toast Ever

• The Bread Matters: While any bread works, brioche, challah, or Texas toast will make a richer, more decadent result.

• The Sugar: A mix of white and brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor.

• The Secret Ingredient: Add a tiny pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the butter mixture for a more complex flavor.

• For a Crispy Bottom: Cook it in a skillet! Melt a little butter in a skillet over medium heat, place the buttered/sugared bread topping-side up, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is crispy. You can then finish it under the broiler to crisp the top.

• The Ratio is Key: A good starting ratio is 1 part cinnamon to 2 parts sugar. Adjust from there to your liking.

Enjoy your delicious, warm, and simple treat