Kaya Toast is one of Singapore’s most iconic breakfast dishes. It’s a simple yet comforting combination of toasted bread, creamy coconut jam, and a generous slab of butter. This guide will show you how to make authentic Singapore-style Kaya Toast at home with easy steps and clear instructions, perfect even for beginners.
What Is Kaya Toast?
Kaya Toast consists of thin slices of toasted bread layered with kaya — a sweet and fragrant coconut jam made from coconut milk, eggs, and sugar — and cold butter. It is traditionally served with soft-boiled eggs and a cup of tea or milk coffee.
This dish symbolizes Singapore’s rich café culture and is loved for its balance of sweetness, creaminess, and crisp texture.
Why Kaya Toast Is So Popular in Singapore
- Simple ingredients
- Quick to prepare
- Affordable and comforting
- Ideal for breakfast or a light snack
- A blend of tradition and nostalgia
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Kaya Toast
- 4 slices of white bread (preferably soft and thin)
- 4–6 thin slices of cold butter
- 4 tbsp kaya (homemade or store-bought)
For Homemade Kaya (Optional)
- 200 ml coconut milk
- 3 eggs
- 120 g sugar
- 2 pandan leaves tied in a knot
How to Make Kaya Toast — Step-by-Step
1. Prepare the Kaya (If Making at Home)
- Whisk eggs and sugar until smooth.
- Add coconut milk and mix gently.
- Pour mixture into a heatproof bowl and steam on low heat.
- Add pandan leaves for aroma.
- Stir regularly until mixture becomes thick and glossy.
- Cool completely before using.
2. Toast the Bread
Use a toaster, pan, or grill. Kaya Toast traditionally uses very crispy bread with the edges trimmed.
3. Add Kaya Generously
Spread a thick layer of kaya on one slice of bread.
4. Add Cold Butter
Place thin slices of cold butter directly on top of the kaya. The contrast between warm toast and cold butter is the key to authentic taste.
5. Serve
Cut the toast diagonally and enjoy immediately while still warm.
Tips for Perfect Kaya Toast
- Use soft white bread for the most traditional taste
- Do not melt the butter — it must be cold
- Toast the bread until golden and crisp
- Homemade kaya gives the richest flavor, but store-bought works well too
- For extra aroma, add a few drops of vanilla extract to kaya
Variations You Can Try
- Honey Kaya Toast—Add a drizzle of honey before placing the butter
- Charcoal-Grilled Kaya Toast—Smoky and more traditional
- French Kaya Toast—Use kaya as filling for a French toast sandwich
Nutritional Breakdown (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 18g
FAQ
1. What does kaya taste like?
Kaya is sweet, creamy, and fragrant, with flavors of coconut, caramelized sugar, and pandan.
2. Can I store homemade kaya?
Yes. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
3. What bread is best for Kaya Toast?
Soft, thin white bread gives the most classic texture.
4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives a richer taste, but margarine can be used if preferred.
5. How do I make the toast extra crispy?
Let the bread toast slightly longer and cool for 1 minute before spreading the kaya.