Ingredients:

• 20g unsalted butter
• 100ml milk
• 20g (2 tbsp) allulose or sugar (to add a slight sweetness, optional)
• 5g (0.5 tbsp) cornstarch (any type)
• 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese (adjust to your preferred cheese strength)
• 2 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough work well)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Melt the Butter

1. Prepare the Pan: In a small saucepan, melt 20g of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt gently without browning.

Step 2: Add Milk and Sweetener

2. Add the Milk: Pour 100ml of milk into the saucepan with the melted butter, stirring occasionally to combine.
3. Sweeten the Mixture: If you’re using a sweetener, add 20g (2 tbsp) of allulose or sugar to the milk and butter mixture. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Thicken with Cornstarch

4. Dissolve the Cornstarch: In a separate small bowl, dissolve 5g (0.5 tbsp) of cornstarch in a little cold water to avoid clumping. Stir well to make a smooth slurry.
5. Add Cornstarch to the Mixture: Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the milk, stirring continuously. This will help thicken the mixture, creating a smooth and creamy texture.

Step 4: Add Cheddar Cheese

6. Add Cheese: Tear 1-2 slices of cheddar cheese into smaller pieces and add them to the thickened mixture. If you enjoy a stronger cheese flavor, use two slices.
7. Melt the Cheese: Stir continuously until the cheddar cheese melts completely into the cream. The mixture should have a rich, velvety consistency by this point.

Step 5: Prepare the Bread

8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
9. Prepare the Bread: Lay out 2 slices of bread on a flat surface. You can use any bread of your choice, but sturdier varieties like sourdough or whole grain work best to hold the creamy topping.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

10. Spread the Cream: Once the cheddar cream is ready, spread it evenly over the surface of the bread slices. Make sure the cream covers the entire surface for the best flavor.
11. Bake the Toast: Place the cream-topped bread slices on a baking sheet. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 8 minutes. You’ll know the toast is ready when the bread is crispy, and the cheese topping turns golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

12. Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the toast from the oven and let it cool for a minute before serving. The cheesy, creamy topping combined with the crunchy toast makes for a delicious bite.

Cooking Tips:

• Adjust Cheese Flavor: If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can add an extra slice of cheddar or mix in some grated Parmesan or Gruyère for a more complex taste.
• For a Crispier Toast: If you like your bread extra crispy, you can toast the bread lightly in a toaster or in the oven before spreading the cheese mixture on top. This ensures the bread stays crisp even after the creamy topping is added.
• Use Different Bread: Try using different types of bread like sourdough, whole wheat, or French bread for varied textures and flavors. Thick slices work better for holding the cheese mixture.
• Add Some Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, you can sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme over the cheese cream before baking.
• Avoid Overheating the Cream: Be careful not to overheat the cheese mixture as this could cause it to curdle or separate. Keep stirring continuously to maintain a smooth consistency.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: If you have leftover cheese cream, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, reheat gently over low heat, stirring to return it to a smooth consistency.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy texture may change once thawed.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Sugar: 4g

FAQs:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   • Yes! You can experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, Gouda, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts smoothly into the cream.
2. Is it necessary to add the sweetener?
   • The sweetener (allulose or sugar) is optional. It adds a slight sweetness that balances the savory flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a purely savory dish.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes, simply use gluten-free bread, and ensure that your cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free.
4. Can I use plant-based milk?
   • Absolutely! You can substitute cow’s milk with any plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
5. How can I add more protein to this recipe?
   • To add more protein, you can top the bread with cooked chicken slices, ham, or even a fried egg before baking.

Conclusion:

The Creamy Cheddar Cheese Toast is an easy, delicious, and comforting dish that brings together the best of creamy cheese and crunchy toast. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can whip up this treat in less than 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick snack or breakfast. The richness of the cheese, the subtle sweetness of the allulose or sugar, and the crispy texture of the toasted bread will leave you wanting more. Whether you make it savory or slightly sweet, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds!