Can I use whole eggs instead of just yolks?

You can, but the custard will be slightly less rich and set a bit firmer. Yolks give that silky, creamy texture that makes this recipe stand out. If you only have whole eggs, use one small egg and reduce the milk slightly.

What kind of bread is best for custard toast?

Brioche and shokupan, which is Japanese milk bread, are the top choices because they are soft, slightly sweet, and thick. A good sourdough or any thick white sandwich loaf also works well. Avoid anything too dense or seedy for this one.

My custard spilled over the edges while baking. What went wrong?

Most likely the well in the bread was not pressed deep enough, or the bread was too thin. Next time press the center down firmly and build up the bread walls as much as you can before pouring in the custard. Filling only about three quarters of the well also helps.

Is this recipe actually from Japan?

The viral version that spread widely online draws inspiration from Japanese milk bread culture and soft baked custard pastries that are popular in Japan. The specific social media format is a modern creation rather than a traditional Japanese recipe, but the flavor combination is very much in that spirit.

Breakfast Recipes

Custard Toast: The Viral Japanese-Style Breakfast You Need to Try

Name: Custard Toast: The Viral Japanese-Style Breakfast You Need to Try
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 thick slices brioche or milk bread (at least 1 inch thick); 2 large egg yolks; 3 tablespoons whole milk; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar and fresh berries for topping, optional

Custard toast is the viral Japanese-style breakfast that looks fancy but takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. Creamy baked custard sits in a golden toasted bread shell and it is one of those recipes you will make on repeat.

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By Amelia Sep 3, 2026

Custard Toast: The Viral Japanese-Style Breakfast You Need to Try

Prep Time 10 mins

Cook Time 15 mins

Servings 2 servings

Recipe note: cooking times can vary by equipment and ingredient size. Use the visual cues in the instructions and adjust seasoning to taste.

Ingredients

2 thick slices brioche or milk bread (at least 1 inch thick)
2 large egg yolks
3 tablespoons whole milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar and fresh berries for topping, optional

Step-by-Step Method

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Prepare the Bread Wells

Place the bread slices on the prepared baking sheet. Using the back of a spoon or your fingers, firmly press down the center of each slice to create a well, leaving about a half inch border of bread around all the edges. Press deep enough that the well can hold liquid without it spilling over.

Butter the Edges

Spread the softened butter evenly over the raised border of each bread slice, making sure to coat all the way to the crusts. This is what gives you those beautifully golden crisp edges.

Make the Custard Mixture

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture looks smooth and slightly pale, about one minute.

Fill the Wells

Carefully pour the custard mixture into each bread well, filling it about three quarters of the way up to avoid spilling. If you are adding fresh berries, press a few gently into the custard now.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until the bread edges are golden brown and the custard is just set with a very slight jiggle in the very center. Check at the 12 minute mark as ovens vary.

Cool Slightly and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the toast cool on the baking sheet for two minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh berries or a drizzle of honey on top if you like. Eat while warm.

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