How to Make Crispy Honey Butter Toast (Cafe Style Recipe)

We’ve shared popular shokupan recipes like ogura toast and French toast, and today we’re introducing another viral treat: honey butter toast, or hanito, as it’s commonly called in Japan. Originally created by Pasela, a karaoke and entertainment chain, hanito is a sweet dessert made with thick-cut Japanese milk bread, butter, and honey.

The key to this dessert is shokupan, a fluffy, silky bread that contrasts beautifully with its golden, crunchy crust when toasted. Unlike thinner Western versions, Japanese honey butter toast is made with thick blocks of shokupan, giving it a bold, indulgent look and texture. We also have a whole wheat version for a nuttier, more nutritious twist.

In this recipe, we’re sticking with the basics: butter, honey, vanilla ice cream, and mint. The combination of warm, buttery bread with cold, creamy ice cream creates an irresistible contrast in flavor and texture. The result is a nostalgic, comforting dessert with a fancy twist.

What’s great about honey butter toast is its versatility. Start with the essentials, then get creative. Try different ice cream flavors, fresh fruits, nuts, whipped cream, or colorful sprinkles. You can also drizzle on chocolate syrup, maple syrup, or even peanut butter for a unique fusion.

To make honey butter toast, start by using thick-cut shokupan and toasting it until golden brown. Cut grid-like slits into the surface of the bread; this helps the butter and honey soak in and makes it easier to share.

Next, spread butter generously over the top and into the cuts. Once the butter has melted, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, garnish with mint, and drizzle honey over the entire toast.

Tip: For best results, keep an eye on the toast while using a toaster oven, as the thick bread can burn quickly near the upper heater. Be sure to serve it immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of hot, crispy toast and cold, creamy ice cream.

Honey butter toast is perfect for tea time, a cozy brunch, or sharing with friends. In Japan, it’s typically served in a way that makes it easy to share; just pull apart the pre-cut sections and top them with ice cream or whipped cream.

If you have leftovers, store the bread and toppings separately. Wrap the toast in foil and refrigerate the toppings. Reheat the toast before reassembling for the best results.

Now it’s your turn! Try making your own honey butter toast at home and let us know your favorite topping combo in the comments.