If you love that moment when melted cheese stretches endlessly and the surface crackles with caramelized sugar, this caramelized cheese toast is for you.
It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something fast, comforting, and deeply satisfying — no dough, no mixer, no complicated prep.
Just toast, cheese, and a quick bake that transforms simple pantry staples into a golden, crispy, sweet-savory treat.
This toast is crispy on the outside, soft in the center, and packed with rich cheese pull. The final brush of egg yolk and sprinkle of sugar creates that glossy, caramelized top that makes it feel way more indulgent than the effort required.
Why you‘ll love this recipe
- It comes together in about 15 minutes, start to finish.
- The sweet and savory contrast is incredibly addictive.
- Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving you that dramatic cheese pull.
- No fancy tools or techniques — truly beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or afternoon tea, with or without a drink.
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Toast – I recommend using plain white sandwich bread for its soft, neutral base that crisps up beautifully. You can use whole wheat or brioche toast for a heartier or richer flavor.
- Salad Dressing – For the signature savory depth, classic creamy salad dressing (like mayonnaise) is key. You can use a low-fat version or even Thousand Island dressing for a tangy twist, though the flavor will change slightly.
- Shredded Cheese – The star for that iconic pull! I always suggest using shredded mozzarella cheese for its superior melting and stretching qualities. In a pinch, you can shred a mild cheddar or American cheese slice, which will melt very smoothly.
- Egg Yolk – You’ll only need the yolk for this recipe to create a rich, golden glaze on the surface. Using a whole egg would make the topping too wet. Save the egg white for another use.
- White Sugar – We’re using just a sprinkle of sugar on top to create a delicate, sweet, and caramelized crust that contrasts perfectly with the savory base. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
How to Make Caramelized Cheese Toast Crisps
Preheat & Prep:Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F) with both top and bottom heat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the 4 slices of toast on it, leaving a little space between them. Separate the egg and place the yolk in a small bowl; whisk it lightly with a fork until smooth.
Assemble the Base:Using a spoon or a small spatula, spread the salad dressing evenly over each slice of toast, covering the surface completely but using a light hand to avoid sogginess. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously and evenly over the dressing, going all the way to the edges for maximum coverage.
First Bake (Melt the Cheese):Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and just starting to show faint golden spots.
Add the Glaze & Final Bake:Carefully remove the tray from the oven. Using a pastry brush, gently brush a thin, even layer of the whisked egg yolk over the entire melted cheese surface on each toast. Immediately sprinkle the white sugar evenly over the glazed cheese. Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the topping is a deep, appetizing golden brown and the sugar has caramelized. Let cool for a minute before serving—the cheese will be very hot!
Tips & tricks
- Use fresh, soft toast for the best texture — overly dry bread won’t crisp as nicely.
- Don’t overdo the mayonnaise. Too much will make the toast soggy instead of crisp.
- Mozzarella gives the best cheese pull, so I always recommend it if you have it.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated so the cheese melts evenly and browns properly.
- Brush the egg yolk thinly and evenly — a heavy layer can prevent the surface from crisping.
- Sprinkle the sugar on top without pressing it down. It will melt and caramelize naturally in the oven.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my toast not crispy?
This usually happens if too much mayonnaise or egg yolk is used, or if the oven isn’t hot enough. Make sure to spread thin, even layers and fully preheat your oven.
Can I make this less sweet?
Yes. You can reduce the amount of granulated sugar or sprinkle it more lightly. The toast will still caramelize, just with a milder sweetness.
Can I store leftovers?
This toast is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, store it sealed at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 180°C oven for about 3 minutes to restore crispness. The cheese pull may be reduced after chilling — that’s normal.
What can I serve with caramelized cheese toast?
It pairs beautifully with milk, coffee, or juice for breakfast, or alongside a fresh vegetable salad to balance the richness.
15-Minute Caramelized Cheese Toast You'll Crave
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 40 g about 2 tbsp salad dressing (mayonnaise)
- 60 g about 3 tbsp shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg yolk
- 20 g white sugar
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep:Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F) with both top and bottom heat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the 4 slices of toast on it, leaving a little space between them. Separate the egg and place the yolk in a small bowl; whisk it lightly with a fork until smooth.
- Assemble the Base:Using a spoon or a small spatula, spread the salad dressing evenly over each slice of toast, covering the surface completely but using a light hand to avoid sogginess. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously and evenly over the dressing, going all the way to the edges for maximum coverage.
- First Bake (Melt the Cheese):Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and just starting to show faint golden spots.
- Add the Glaze & Final Bake:Carefully remove the tray from the oven. Using a pastry brush, gently brush a thin, even layer of the whisked egg yolk over the entire melted cheese surface on each toast. Immediately sprinkle the white sugar evenly over the glazed cheese. Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the topping is a deep, appetizing golden brown and the sugar has caramelized. Let cool for a minute before serving—the cheese will be very hot!
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