- Perfect balance of crunchy exterior and soft interior in every bite
- Simple pantry ingredients transform ordinary bread into a gourmet treat
- Foolproof method works every time, even for complete beginners
- Customizable options to suit dietary needs and flavor preferences
Why This Cinnamon Toast Recipe Stands Out
Making cinnamon toast might seem simple, but there’s a world of difference between average and extraordinary. Most people struggle with uneven cinnamon distribution, soggy bread, or burnt sugar.
This recipe solves all those problems.
By using a specific method that perfectly caramelizes the sugar-cinnamon mixture while maintaining the bread’s structure, you’ll create the best cinnamon toast you’ve ever tasted. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest breakfast eaters.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 210 | – |
| Total Fat | 9g | 12% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 20mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 240mg | 10% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30g | 11% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Sugars | 10g | – |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
Based on a 2,000 calorie diet
What You’ll Need
Ingredients (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bread slices | 8 slices | White, whole wheat, or brioche |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Softened at room temperature |
| Granulated sugar | 4 tablespoons | – |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | Fresh for best flavor |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon | Optional but recommended |
| Salt | Tiny pinch | To enhance sweetness |
Kitchen Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking sheet | For oven method |
| Toaster | For toaster method (alternative) |
| Small mixing bowl | For cinnamon-sugar mixture |
| Butter knife or offset spatula | For spreading butter mixture |
| Measuring spoons | For accurate measurements |
Possible Substitutions
- Bread: Any type works, but thicker slices hold up better
- Butter: Plant-based butter for dairy-free option
- Sugar: Brown sugar or coconut sugar for different flavor profiles
- Cinnamon: Pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist
- Sweeteners: Monk fruit or erythritol for lower-sugar options
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation (5 minutes)
- Set up your workspace
- Clear a clean area on your counter with about 2 feet of space
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Place a kitchen towel nearby for any spills
- Gather all ingredients and tools
- Take out butter from refrigerator 30 minutes before starting so it softens
- Check that your cinnamon is fresh (should smell strong and sweet)
- Count out 8 slices of bread and place on a plate
- Find measuring spoons and small bowls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Turn oven dial or press buttons to set temperature
- Wait for preheat indicator light or sound (usually takes 5-10 minutes)
- Position rack in the middle position of the oven (not too high, not too low)
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper if desired (for easier cleanup)
- Make the cinnamon-sugar mixture
- Place a small bowl on your counter
- Measure exactly 4 tablespoons of granulated sugar using measuring spoons
- Add 2 level teaspoons of ground cinnamon (use measuring spoon, not a regular spoon)
- Add a tiny pinch of salt (just a few grains between your fingers)
- Mix thoroughly with a fork until color is completely uniform (no white streaks)
- Tip for beginners: Mixing should take at least 30 seconds to ensure even distribution
Assembly (3 minutes)
- Prepare the butter spread
- Test butter softness by pressing with finger – it should leave an indentation easily
- If butter is too hard, microwave for 5-10 seconds (be careful not to melt)
- Place 4 tablespoons softened butter in a clean small bowl
- Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (measure precisely)
- Mix with fork or small spoon until completely smooth and uniform
- Mixture should be spreadable but not liquidy (like soft ice cream texture)
- Spread butter on bread slices
- Place bread slices on a clean surface or directly on the baking sheet
- Take approximately ½ tablespoon of butter mixture on knife or spatula
- Start in center of bread slice and spread outward in gentle strokes
- Apply a thin, even layer across entire surface (about 1/16 inch thick)
- Make sure to cover all the way to the edges and corners
- Repeat for all 8 slices
- Warning for beginners: Too much butter will make toast soggy; too little won’t let sugar stick
- Apply cinnamon-sugar mixture
- Hold a measuring spoon about 3-4 inches above bread
- Sprinkle approximately 1½ teaspoons of cinnamon-sugar mixture over each buttered slice
- Try to distribute evenly across entire surface
- Do this slowly and carefully – not all at once
- When all slices are covered, gently press mixture into butter with back of spoon
- Visual check: Bread should be completely covered with a thin layer of cinnamon-sugar
Cooking Options (5-10 minutes)
- Oven method (recommended for best results):
- Make sure oven is fully preheated to 350°F (very important)
- Place bread slices, cinnamon-sugar side up, on baking sheet
- Leave at least ½ inch between slices for proper heat circulation
- Place baking sheet on middle rack of oven
- Set timer for 8 minutes
- After 6 minutes, check toast through oven window (don’t open door)
- Look for sugar beginning to bubble and edges turning golden
- For the final 2 minutes, check every 30 seconds to prevent burning
- Toast is done when sugar is bubbling and edges are golden brown (usually 8-10 minutes total)
- Toaster method (quick alternative):
- First toast bread slices in toaster on medium setting
- Check that bread is lightly toasted but not too dark
- Remove toast and place on plate
- Quickly apply butter while toast is still warm (it will melt slightly)
- Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture
- Turn on broiler setting of oven or toaster oven
- Place toast under broiler about 6 inches from heat source
- Watch constantly (do not walk away!) for 1-2 minutes until sugar bubbles
- Safety warning: Sugar can burn in seconds under a broiler – never leave unattended
Finishing (2 minutes)
- Remove from oven safely
- Use oven mitts or thick kitchen towels to protect hands
- Pull rack out slightly before lifting baking sheet
- Place hot baking sheet on heat-safe surface like stovetop or cooling rack
- Be careful of steam rising from hot toast
- Let toast cool slightly
- Allow toast to rest for 1-2 minutes (set a timer)
- This cooling time serves two purposes:
- Allows sugar to set and create a crispy texture
- Prevents burning your mouth on hot sugar
- Safety tip for beginners: Caramelized sugar is extremely hot and can cause serious burns
- Cut and serve
- If desired, cut each slice diagonally to create triangles
- Use a sharp knife and cut in one confident motion
- Transfer to serving plates using a spatula
- Serve immediately while still warm but not hot
- Presentation tip: Add a small sprinkle of cinnamon on top for visual appeal
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: Sugar Won’t Caramelize
- Solution: Make sure butter layer isn’t too thick
- Fix: If underdone, place under broiler for 30-60 seconds
Problem: Toast Burns Too Quickly
- Solution: Lower oven temperature to 325°F and extend baking time
- Fix: Cover burnt edges with foil and continue baking center
Problem: Uneven Cinnamon Distribution
- Solution: Mix cinnamon and sugar thoroughly before applying
- Fix: Keep mixture in shaker for more even application
Variations to Try
Sweet Variations
- Cinnamon-Brown Sugar: Replace white sugar with light brown sugar
- Apple Pie Toast: Add thin apple slices before baking
- S’mores Toast: Top with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips for last 2 minutes of baking
Savory-Sweet Combos
- Maple Bacon: Add crumbled bacon and drizzle with maple syrup
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Spread thin layer of cream cheese before cinnamon-sugar
Storage & Reheating
Storage Options
- Room Temperature: Consume within 2 hours
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 2 days
- Freezer: Place in freezer bag with parchment between slices for up to 1 month
Reheating Methods
- Oven: 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warm and crisp
- Toaster: Low setting for 1-2 minutes
- Microwave: 10-15 seconds (note: will be less crispy)
Safety Notes & Helpful Tips
Safety First
- Hot sugar can cause serious burns – let cool slightly before eating
- Keep young children away from oven during broiling stage
- Always use oven mitts when handling hot baking sheets
Pro Tips
- Perfect timing: Look for bubbling sugar and golden edges as doneness indicators
- Even cooking: Rotate baking sheet halfway through if your oven has hot spots
- Make ahead: Prepare cinnamon-sugar mixture in bulk and store in airtight container
- Temperature matters: Room temperature butter spreads more easily than cold
- Bread choice: Day-old bread works better than super-fresh as it absorbs less moisture
This cinnamon toast recipe takes a simple breakfast classic and elevates it to something truly special. With just a few ingredients and minutes, you’ll create a breakfast treat that looks and tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches alike!
