1/8tvanilla extractpure, not imitation, if possible. Want to make this crazy good? Use ¼ t of vanilla bean paste instead. Whoa.
Optional: a pinch of saltadds a layer of flavor, especially if you are using unsalted butter
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350F
Soften the butter. In a typical microwave, you can soften a stick of butter in about 20 seconds on high. You want it soft enough to spread easily.
Combine butter, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla (and salt if you include it) in a bowl.
Using your spoon or pastry brush, spread the mixture from edge to edge of the bread.
Place the bread on a baking pan, butter-side up.
Bake for 10 minutes.
With the pan still in the oven, turn on the broiler and broil for 1 minute or until the mixture is bubbling on the toast. Don’t walk away; this happens very quickly.
Remove from the oven carefully with heat protection.
Serve immediately as a brunch appetizer or a great finisher!