VICTOR PROTASIO, FOOD STYLIST: JENNIFER WENDORF, PROP STYLIST: ABBY ARMSTRONG
Cinnamon toast is a cinch to prepare, making it a go-to for a quick breakfast or snack whenever the craving strikes. Simply butter some slices of bread, generously sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on top, and broil until the sugar’s nice and bubbly. It’s a sweet, straightforward delight.
But why settle for the ordinary when you can elevate the experience with Banana Bread Cinnamon Toast? Begin with either homemade or store-bought banana bread, but aim for something that’s not freshly baked—it should be tender, but not overly so. Combine butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl, then slather it all over the bread, from the top to the bottom and the sides. Bake until it’s nice and crisp.
The outcome is a treat that boasts a delightful contrast in textures. The hearty banana bread slices stay moist and tender in the center, while the thin layer of sugary goodness on the outside adds a satisfying crunch. The warm, aromatic spices of the cinnamon-sugar crust beautifully complement the banana bread, and a hint of salt ensures the sweetness is balanced. Some might say this cinnamon toast is too sophisticated for kids, so go ahead and savor it all to yourself.
Transform this dessert by topping each slice with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzle with caramel syrup.
Ingredients:
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 Tbsp. light brown sugar
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp. kosher salt
4 slices (3/4-inch thick) day-old banana bread (about 2 oz. each)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a small baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Spread a thin layer of the mixture over each bread slice, covering the top, bottom, and sides. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Flip the slices and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until evenly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make-Ahead and Storage: Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the frozen slices in the oven or air fryer until they’re crispy once more.
*The % Daily Value (DV) indicates how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. A daily intake of 2,000 calories is used for general nutritional guidance.
