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

Method

1. Preheat the Oven

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

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.