Texas toast is a type of thickly sliced bread that is popular in the Southern United States. It gets its name from the fact that it originated in Texas, but it has become a staple across the region and beyond.
What Makes Texas Toast Different?
The main thing that distinguishes Texas toast from regular sliced bread is its thickness. A standard slice of bread is about 1/2 inch thick. Texas toast is generally double that, ranging from 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick.
This extra thickness gives Texas toast a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior when toasted. The slices are also often larger in diameter than regular sliced bread.
What Types of Bread Are Used to Make Texas Toast?
Although any type of bread can be made into Texas toast, certain varieties are more commonly used:
- White bread – The most classic and popular option. White sandwich bread like Wonder Bread is simple and has a neutral flavor that pairs well with most dishes.
- Sourdough – Heartier slices of sourdough bread make excellent Texas toast, adding a tangy flavor. The chewy texture also holds up well to heavy toppings.
- Italian bread – With its dense and chewy texture, Italian bread varieties like ciabatta are a natural fit for Texas toast.
- Brioche – The richness of buttery brioche makes it an indulgent choice for Texas toast. It becomes ultra moist and tender when toasted.
- Wheat bread – For a slightly healthier spin, wheat bread can be used to make lighter Texas toast.
In most cases, basic white sandwich bread is used. But artisan bakeries are increasingly offering Texas toast in more gourmet varieties.
The History of Texas Toast
Texas toast as we know it today traces its origins back to the mid-20th century in Texas. Some accounts credit the aperture-controlled Broiler-Oven at the Pig Stand restaurant chain with first producing the thick cut toast in the 1940s or 1950s. The toast was so popular that it became a menu staple and was dubbed “Texas toast.”
The concept was simple – take regular sliced bread, slice it extra thick, and toast it. The Broiler-Oven’s intense direct heat from both top and bottom perfectly browned and crisped the thick slices. Patrons loved the toast for its hearty texture and ability to stand up to juicy hamburgers and other diner fare.
Texas toast grew in popularity over the ensuing decades, spreading across the region and country. Its typically low price made it a customer favorite. It became a staple item offered by restaurants and available for retail purchase. Today, pre-sliced Texas toast can be readily found in grocery stores across America.
How Is Texas Toast Used?
There are endless ways that Texas toast can be served:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Breaded and fried for chicken fried steak or chicken sandwiches
- Garlic bread
- Bruschetta
- Croutons for salads and soups
- Stuffing for po’ boy sandwiches
- Toppings for pulled pork, sloppy Joes, or chili
- French toast
Its thick, sturdy and absorbent texture allows Texas toast to hold up to hefty toppings and soak up sauces or juices without getting soggy. It provides a satisfying heartiness and crunch factor to any dish. When used for sandwiches, the slices are often buttered and toasted on the outside for added flavor and texture.
Is Texas Toast Baked Differently Than Regular Bread?
Texas toast is baked using the same basic process as regular sliced bread. The main differences are:
- The dough is shaped into a thicker loaf before baking.
- It bakes a little longer, since the greater thickness requires more time for the interior to fully bake.
- The slices are cut about twice as thick as regular sandwich bread.
So while the baking method is essentially the same, the thicker loaf and slices result in the distinctive qualities of Texas toast versus regular sandwich bread.
Where Can I Buy Texas Toast?
Texas toast is widely available at most grocery stores and mass retailers like Walmart alongside regular sliced breads. Popular brands include:
- Wonder Bread
- Arnold Bread
- Sara Lee
- Pepperidge Farm
- Sunbeam
- Freihofers
It can typically be found in the bakery or bread aisle. Some stores carry it refrigerated while others keep it at room temperature. Texas toast is also easy to make from scratch by cutting thicker slices from a homemade or bakery loaf.
Texas Toast Nutrition Information
The nutrition content of Texas toast depends on the exact ingredients and brand. But in general, a typical serving (1 slice) of white enriched Texas toast provides:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Texas toast made from wheat or whole grain bread would contain slightly more protein and fiber. Using butter or oils to toast the bread would also increase the fat and calorie content.
Is Texas Toast Healthy?
Texas toast is not the most nutritious option, but enjoyed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. Some health factors to consider:
- Typically made from refined flour, so it lacks the benefits of whole grains.
- Relatively high in carbohydrates and calories due to larger portion size.
- Low in fiber since the wheat bran is removed during processing.
- Often contains added sugar, fat, and sodium.
- Can be part of a filling, balanced meal when paired with lean protein and produce.
- Chooser healthier varieties like whole wheat or multigrain when possible.
Overall, Texas toast is a high-calorie bread best enjoyed occasionally. Accompany it with nutritious ingredients and watch portion sizes.
Conclusion
Texas toast brings a touch of Southern flair to any meal. This oversized toasted bread remains a customer favorite for its crispy outside and soft, absorptive interior. While white sandwich bread is the traditional choice, Texas toast can be made from just about any bread by slicing it extra thick. It provides hearty sustenance for sandwiches, soaking up sauces, and serving as the base for appetizers. Moderation is key with this high-carb indulgence, but when enjoyed responsibly, Texas toast can be a delicious addition to a well-rounded diet.