Save This cinnamon sugar toast with mascarpone transforms ordinary bread into a luxurious treat that feels like dessert for breakfast. The contrast between the crispy, buttery toast and the cool, creamy mascarpone creates a texture experience that's simply irresistible, while the warming cinnamon sugar brings everything together.
I first made this toast on a chilly Sunday morning when I was craving something sweet but didn't want to spend hours baking. The combination was so perfect that it's now my go-to comfort food whenever I need a little self-care moment with my morning coffee.
Ingredients
- Thick-cut bread slices: quality matters here as the bread forms the foundation of this dish. Brioche adds richness, challah offers a subtle sweetness, and sourdough provides a tangy contrast
- Mascarpone cheese: this Italian cream cheese brings a luxurious silky texture without being too sweet, allowing the cinnamon sugar to shine
- Granulated sugar: provides the sweet crystalline crunch that makes this toast special
- Ground cinnamon: adds warmth and complexity, look for Ceylon cinnamon for a more delicate flavor
- Unsalted butter: creates the perfect base that helps the cinnamon sugar caramelize slightly on the toast
- Sea salt: optional but highly recommended as it enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
Instructions
- Create the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
- Combine 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar, creating a uniform mixture with no clumps. The ratio can be adjusted slightly if you prefer more or less cinnamon intensity.
- Toast the Bread:
- Place your bread slices in a toaster or on a skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, toast each side for about 2 minutes until golden brown with a slight crispness around the edges while maintaining some softness in the center. The goal is a toast that's sturdy enough to hold the toppings but not so crunchy that it shatters when you bite into it.
- Apply the Butter Layer:
- While the toast is still hot, immediately spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter across the entire surface of each slice. The residual heat will help the butter melt slightly, creating a protective layer that prevents the toast from becoming soggy when the mascarpone is added. Make sure to spread the butter all the way to the edges.
- Add the Mascarpone:
- Using a clean knife or small spatula, gently spread 2 tablespoons of mascarpone cheese over each buttered toast slice. Aim for an even layer about 1/4 inch thick. The mascarpone should be at room temperature for easiest spreading without tearing the toast. If you've refrigerated it, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before using.
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar:
- Generously dust the cinnamon sugar mixture over the mascarpone layer, covering it completely. Use about 1 tablespoon of mixture per toast, allowing some to fall onto the plate which can be scooped up with each bite. The sugar will partially dissolve into the creamy mascarpone, creating a delightful texture contrast.
- Finish with Sea Salt:
- If desired, add a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt to each toast. This might seem unusual for a sweet dish, but the salt brings out the buttery notes in the mascarpone and creates a more complex flavor profile that elevates this simple treat to something special.
Save The first time I served this to my family, my daughter declared it "cloud toast" because of how the mascarpone puffs up slightly when spread on warm bread. Now it's our special weekend tradition, and I've found that using freshly ground cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in the aromatic quality of the final dish.
Make Ahead Options
While this toast is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, you can save time by mixing the cinnamon sugar in advance and storing it in an airtight container. This homemade cinnamon sugar keeps for months and can be used for multiple servings. For busy mornings, pre-slice your bread the night before and store it in a bread bag to maintain freshness. The mascarpone can be portioned into small containers and brought to room temperature while you toast the bread.
Ingredient Substitutions
For those who need alternatives, cream cheese makes an excellent substitute for mascarpone, though it has a slightly tangier profile. Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of honey creates a protein-rich option with less fat. The bread choice is highly adaptable too brioche offers decadence, whole grain provides nuttiness and fiber, and gluten-free varieties work perfectly when needed. Brown sugar can replace white sugar for a deeper molasses note, and pumpkin pie spice can stand in for cinnamon during fall months for a seasonal twist.
Seasonal Variations
Spring version top with fresh strawberries and a light drizzle of honey
Summer adaptation add sliced peaches and a sprinkle of crushed amaretti cookies
Fall favorite incorporate a thin layer of pumpkin butter beneath the mascarpone
Winter warmer add a dash of nutmeg and serve with spiced apple compote
Serving Suggestions
This cinnamon sugar toast works beautifully as part of a larger breakfast spread or as a standalone treat. Pair it with fresh fruit for balance, or serve alongside a protein like yogurt or eggs to create a more substantial meal. For a special brunch, cut the finished toast into triangles and arrange on a platter with other breakfast favorites. The contrast between the sweet toast and savory breakfast items creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies all cravings.
Save This cinnamon sugar toast with mascarpone is a delightful treat that offers a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Enjoy it as a quick breakfast, a sweet snack, or an elegant addition to your next brunch.
Recipe Questions
- → What bread works best for this dish?
Brioche, challah, or sourdough are ideal for their sturdy texture and rich flavor, but any thick-cut bread will do.
- → Can I substitute mascarpone with something else?
Cream cheese or ricotta are great alternatives if mascarpone is unavailable or a lighter flavor is preferred.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply switch to your favorite gluten-free bread and check all labels to ensure suitability.
- → What toppings can enhance the flavor?
Try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, or fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for extra sweetness.
- → Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and a plant-based spread instead of mascarpone for a dairy-free version. Always verify ingredients.