Kaya Toast
All Foods • Singapore
About Kaya Toast
Toasted bread with kaya (coconut jam) and butter
How to Make Kaya Toast (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Kaya Toast is a beloved breakfast staple in Singapore, often found sizzling on the grills of bustling kopitiams (traditional coffee shops) across the island. This classic dish features crisp, golden-brown bread slathered with fragrant kaya—a silky coconut and egg jam—then layered with a touch of butter. The symphony of sweet, creamy, and toasty flavors has made Kaya Toast an iconic part of Singaporean hawker culture, where locals gather for a quick, satisfying bite and a strong cup of kopi or teh. Its origins trace back to Hainanese immigrants who adapted British-style toast to local tastes, introducing rich coconut and pandan notes that define the Singaporean version. Kaya Toast embodies the multicultural fusion that underpins much of Singapore’s culinary identity, making it more than just a breakfast—it's a symbol of shared heritage and simple joys. Light yet deeply satisfying, Kaya Toast is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a taste of Singapore’s authentic flavors in a nutritious, homemade way.
Ingredients(for 2 slices of kaya toast per person)
- 4 slices Wholegrain bread (preferably thin-sliced, local kopitiam style)
- 4 tbsp Kaya (coconut jam) (homemade or store-bought, see recipe below)
- 2 tsp Unsalted butter (use plant-based spread for vegan option)
- 2 large Eggs (for homemade kaya)
- 200 ml Coconut milk (fresh or carton)
- 2 leaves Pandan leaves (knotted, optional but recommended for aroma) - optional
- 3 tbsp Brown sugar (or low-GI sweetener for diabetic-friendly)
- pinch Salt (balances sweetness) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the kaya: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together eggs, coconut milk, and brown sugar until combined. Add the pandan leaves if using.
5 minutes
Strain mixture for extra smoothness.
- 2
Steam the mixture over gently simmering water, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a smooth, spreadable jam (about 15-20 minutes). Remove pandan leaves and let cool.
20 minutes
Keep heat low to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- 3
Toast the bread slices until golden and crisp, either in a toaster or on a grill pan for a kopitiam-style char.
5 minutes
Press bread lightly for extra crispness.
- 4
Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each toast while still warm, letting it melt in.
2 minutes
Use cold butter for the classic slab effect.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Kaya Toast recipe is healthier than most kopitiam versions thanks to wholegrain bread, reduced butter, and the option to use low-GI sweeteners. It balances energy with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, making it filling yet light. Homemade kaya lets you control sugar and fat content, supporting weight management and sustained energy. It’s a wholesome, portion-controlled breakfast that fits easily into a balanced diet.
Kaya Toast, when prepared with wholegrain bread and moderate butter, provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. Coconut milk offers medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and essential minerals like manganese and copper, while eggs supply high-quality protein and B vitamins. Using brown sugar or a low-GI alternative helps manage blood sugar spikes. This dish is vegetarian and can be adapted for various dietary needs, making it a nutritious choice for energy, satiety, and micronutrient support.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh pandan leaves for the most authentic aroma in your kaya.
- 💡Tip 2: Make kaya in advance and chill for a firmer, easy-to-spread consistency.
- 💡Tip 3: Lightly pressing the bread while toasting gives the signature kopitiam crispness.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover kaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Toasted bread is best served fresh, but can be reheated in a toaster. Assembled kaya toast should be eaten immediately for best texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 280.0 kcal |
| Protein | 6.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38.0 g |
| Total Fat | 12.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |
