Extra Toast Recipe

Preheat and prepare bread

Bring bread to room temperature if refrigerated. If slices are thicker than 1-inch, score the crust lightly so heat penetrates evenly.

Butter and oil

Spread 1 tablespoon unsalted butter evenly on the outside surface of each bread slice (the side that will contact the pan or grill). Brush or drizzle a small amount (about 1/2 tsp per slice) of extra-virgin olive oil over the buttered side to help crisping.

Pan-toast method (recommended for extra crispness)

Heat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat until shimmering, about 2–3 minutes. Place bread, buttered/oiled side down, in the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low. Toast 2–4 minutes without moving until the surface is deep golden brown and crisp. Meanwhile, spread remaining butter thinly on the untoasted side.

Oven or broiler method (alternate)

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or set broiler to medium-high. Place bread on a baking sheet, buttered side up. Bake 5–7 minutes (or broil 1–2 minutes, watching carefully) until edges are deeply golden. Flip and toast the second side 1–2 minutes if desired.

Garlic rub (optional)

If using garlic, peel the clove and, as soon as the toast comes off the heat, rub the cut side of the garlic across the hot buttered surface so the garlic flavor lightly perfumes the toast.

Season

Immediately sprinkle toasted slices with coarse kosher salt (about 1/8 tsp per slice) and freshly ground black pepper to taste (about 1/2 tsp per slice) while still warm so seasonings adhere.

Avocado

Spread mashed avocado over warm toast (about 1/4 cup per slice). Season with a pinch of coarse salt, a grind of black pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon if you like (not included above).

Cheese

For grated hard cheese: while toast is hot, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan per slice so it warms and melds slightly. For soft cheese: spread 1 tablespoon goat or cream cheese evenly and top with a drizzle of honey or fresh tomato slices.

Tomato and basil

Arrange tomato slices on top of softened cheese or directly on avocado. Season tomatoes with a pinch of salt and top with microgreens or torn basil leaves.

Finish and serve

Stack or plate extra toast immediately and serve while hot and crisp. If making multiple pieces, keep finished toast in a single layer on a cooling rack in a warm (not hot) oven set to 200°F (95°C) to retain crispness until serving.