
A warm slice of honey butter toast starts as a simple idea but quickly transforms into a luxurious treat with just a handful of staple ingredients. This viral recipe brings comfort to chilly mornings and makes regular afternoons feel a little more special. Sweet and buttery with crisped edges and the golden glow of caramelized honey there is nothing quite like it fresh from your oven.
I first tried this recipe after seeing it everywhere online and it lived up to the hype. My family now requests it for weekend brunch almost as much as pancakes.
Ingredients
- Brioche bread: Thick slices are key for a custardy center and crisped edges Choose slices that spring back when pressed for the freshest result
- Softened butter: Spreads more easily across the bread Find a European style butter if you want the richest flavor
- Light brown sugar: Gives depth and warmth Look for sugar that still feels soft to the touch
- Honey: The star ingredient brings floral sweetness and deep golden color Opt for real honey over blended syrup varieties
- Pinch of salt: Brings all the sweet flavors to life Go for fine sea salt if you have it
- Optional toppings: Whipped cream and salted caramel turn this toast into a dessert for special occasions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 370 degrees Fahrenheit so it is ready for perfect toasting when your bread is prepped
- Prep the Bread:
- Slice brioche into thick slices and remove the crusts This ensures even toasting and a pillowy center Set aside while you prepare the honey butter
- Mix the Honey Butter:
- Combine softened butter and brown sugar in a bowl Use a spatula to mix until completely smooth and creamy so no lumps remain
- Add Honey and Salt:
- Stir in honey and a pinch of salt Blend the mixture well so each bite is evenly sweet and seasoned
- Coat the Bread:
- Use a generous hand to coat both sides of each bread slice with the honey butter This helps create that glossy golden exterior everyone loves
- Bake the Toast:
- Arrange slices on a baking sheet Bake for 10 minutes then use a spatula to gently flip each toast Bake for another 10 minutes until both sides are crisp and golden
- Cool and Serve:
- Rest the toasts on a cooling rack briefly to set the caramelized crust If you like top with whipped cream or a drizzle of salted caramel and enjoy every bite while still warm

My favorite part of this recipe is the way the honey browns at the edges giving each bite just a hint of crunch My youngest loves swirling his toast through extra caramel and whipped cream like dessert for breakfast
Storage Tips
Store leftover toast in an airtight container once cooled If you want to bring them back to life pop the slices in a toaster oven for two minutes and they will crisp right up The honey butter coating will stay glossy even overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find brioche try challah or even Texas toast Bread with some density and a rich crumb holds the honey butter best Maple syrup can trade places with honey if you like a different sweetness for your toast
Serving Suggestions
Honey butter toast shines at brunch but I often make it as an afternoon treat with coffee A scoop of vanilla ice cream on warm toast transforms it into an effortless dessert For kids sliced strawberries on top are always a win

A Little History
Honey butter toast has roots in both Asian and French café culture Brioche makes it richer than standard toast a favorite in Korean bakeries and Parisian coffee shops alike It is a modern twist inspired by old world comfort
Common Recipe Questions
- → What bread works best for honey butter toast?
Brioche is ideal due to its soft, airy texture and slight sweetness, making it perfect for soaking up the honey butter mixture.
- → Can I use regular butter instead of softened butter?
Using softened butter ensures easy blending with sugar and honey for a uniform spread. Cold butter may result in uneven coating.
- → How do I achieve the perfect golden crust?
Bake the bread at 370°F, flipping midway, to ensure both sides become evenly golden and caramelized without over-drying.
- → Is it necessary to remove the crusts?
Removing crusts helps each slice toast more evenly, creating a softer texture and uniform flavor throughout the toast.
- → What can I use as toppings?
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and drizzle with salted caramel glaze for a decadent twist. Fresh berries also work well.
- → Can I substitute the brown sugar?
Light brown sugar brings subtle caramel notes, but you may use white sugar or coconut sugar for a slight flavor variation.