Like every Buff Boy, coffee is needed to start my day. Let's be honest: that goes for most people.
Coffee extends far beyond the morning cup. It’s a flavor profile, a mood, an art form that can elevate so many dishes. So, I'm constantly looking for ways to incorporate coffee as an ingredient into breakfast foods.
I’ve been experimenting with my favorite Buff brew and one particular recipe has become a delightful discovery: coffee toast.
Our coffee collection has so many flavor profiles that there are literally dozens of combinations that can be used to make a coffee-infused toast. (Caramel, donut -- so many!)
This recipe aims for a caramelized top with a soft, coffee-infused interior – perfect for a unique breakfast or a delightful snack.
Ingredients:
2 slices of sturdy bread (sourdough, brioche or challah work perfectly)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (brown sugar can also add depth)
1-2 tablespoons very strongly brewed Buff Boy Brewing coffee (think espresso strength, or a highly concentrated brew)
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla extract for extra complexity
Instructions:
Prepare Your Buff Boy Brew: Start by brewing your coffee extra strong. I usually achieve this by using less water than usual for my drip coffee or simply pulling a fresh espresso shot. Allow it to cool slightly; you don't want it piping hot when mixing with butter.
Create the Coffee Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar and pinch of salt. Cream these ingredients together until they’re light and fluffy. This forms the delicious base for your spread.
Infuse with Coffee: Now, gradually add the strong Buff coffee to the butter mixture. I recommend adding a teaspoon at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. You're aiming for a smooth, spreadable consistency. Be mindful not to add too much liquid at once, as it can cause the mixture to separate. If you're using optional cinnamon or vanilla, stir them in now.
Prepare for Toasting: Preheat your broiler on low, or set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place your bread slices on a baking sheet.
Apply and Broil/Bake: Generously spread the Buff coffee butter onto one side of each bread slice. Ensure an even layer, as this is where all the wonderful flavor and caramelization will come from.
Cook to Perfection: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-4 minutes. This step requires constant vigilance, as the sugar can burn quickly! Watch for the top to become bubbly, golden brown and delightfully caramelized at the edges. If using an oven, bake for 5-8 minutes until golden and crisp.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the toast cool for just a minute or two before serving. The top will crisp up slightly as it cools.
The sweetness of the sugar perfectly balances the coffee's natural bitterness, leading to a caramelized crust that offers a satisfying crunch before yielding to a soft, aromatic center. It's a fantastic way to experience the depth of quality coffee in a whole new dimension, making for a sophisticated yet simple treat.
Another reason why you can't get enough Buff!