Thick Toast With Condensed Milk & Butter Recipe

Prepare ingredients

Remove the unsalted butter from the fridge so some is at room temperature and some remains cold for optional finishing. If using whole fruit (banana/berries), slice or wash now. Have condensed milk measured and ready.

Preheat pan and oven (optional method)

Choose one of two common methods: stovetop skillet with lid or oven finish. For skillet-only: preheat a heavy skillet (cast-iron or nonstick) over medium-low heat. For oven method: preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and preheat an oven-safe skillet over medium heat on stovetop.

Assemble butter on bread

Spread about 1 tbs of room-temperature unsalted butter evenly on one side of each thick bread slice. If you prefer extra buttery pockets, shave or thinly slice the cold butter and insert a slice or two between two slices of bread before toasting (making a butter sandwich).

Toast the bread (skillet method)

Add 1 tbs vegetable oil to the preheated skillet and swirl to coat. Place buttered-side-down bread into skillet (butter side facing pan). Reduce heat to medium-low. Toast for 2–3 minutes until the buttered side is golden and slightly crisp. Flip and toast the other side 1–2 minutes until warmed through and golden. If bread is very thick and you want it warmed center, cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes to gently steam through.

Toast the bread (oven-finish method)

If using the oven method, sear buttered-side-down in the preheated skillet 1–2 minutes on stovetop until golden, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven for 4–6 minutes to finish warming the interior and crisping edges. Remove with oven mitts.

Caramelize sugar (optional)

If you want a slightly caramelized surface, sprinkle a light dusting of the optional granulated sugar over the hot toasted surface and carefully use a kitchen torch to caramelize until glossy and golden. Alternatively, return briefly to the hot skillet to melt the sugar until it sets slightly. Be cautious to avoid burning.

Apply condensed milk and finish

Place each toasted slice on a plate. Spoon about 1.5 tbs of sweetened condensed milk over each slice, spreading lightly so it soaks into the crumb and covers the surface. If desired, add a small pinch (about 1/8 tsp) of salt per slice to balance sweetness. For added richness, top each slice with a small additional pat (about ¼ tbs) of cold butter so it slowly melts on contact.

Serve

Serve immediately while toast is warm with optional sliced banana or berries on the side, or on top of the condensed-milk-coated toast. Makes 4 slices; enjoy hot for best texture contrast between crisp exterior and soft interior.