The famous side from the fast-food chain Raising Cane's is known by many names—Texas toast, Cane's toast, or simply "the bread." Whatever it's called, this side dish has become a staple of the brand's identity, loved by fans for its satisfyingly crisp exterior and warm, soft interior. Its secret lies in the specific ingredients and preparation, which are both simple and intentional.
What Kind of Bread is Used?
At the heart of the iconic side is the bread itself. Raising Cane's uses a specific type of bread to achieve its signature texture and flavor. The company's toast is made from a sesame seed pull-apart bread, which some copycat recipes liken to a thick-sliced Texas toast or finger rolls. The commercial brand Klosterman Baking Company reportedly supplies this bread to the restaurant chain. The thickness of the slice is crucial, allowing for the perfectly golden, buttery outside while keeping the inside fluffy. The subtle nuttiness from the sesame seeds also adds an extra layer of flavor that helps distinguish it from other garlic breads.
The Buttery, Garlic Coating
While the bread provides the foundation, the magic of Cane's toast is in its buttery, savory coating. A simple blend of softened butter and garlic salt is applied generously to at least one side of the thick-cut bread slice before griddling. Some recipes suggest a mixture of garlic powder and salt, while others use a pre-mixed garlic salt. This simple seasoning blend imparts the familiar, craveable garlicky flavor without being overpowering. The high fat content of the butter ensures a perfect, even crisp when cooked on a griddle.
The Art of the Griddle
Unlike traditional toasted bread, Cane's toast is prepared on a flat-top griddle. This cooking method is key to its texture. The griddle's consistent, direct heat crisps the buttered surface to a golden brown, creating a distinctively crunchy exterior. The inside remains soft and steamy, a result of the bread's thickness. While copycat recipes often suggest using a skillet or even an oven, the griddle is the original and most authentic method. To achieve the coveted "bobbed" toast, where both sides are buttered and griddled, fans simply need to ask for it when ordering.
Recreating Cane's Bread at Home
For those craving the signature toast, recreating it at home is possible with simple ingredients and steps, as detailed in various copycat recipes. Ingredients typically include thick-cut bread (like Texas toast or sesame pull-apart bread), softened butter, and garlic salt. The process involves mixing butter and garlic salt, spreading it on the bread, and then cooking the slices on a hot skillet or griddle until golden brown and crispy.
Cane's Bread vs. Other Toasts
| Feature | Cane's Texas Toast | Traditional Garlic Bread | French Toast | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Bread Type | Thick-cut sesame pull-apart bread | Baguette, Italian, or other crusty loaf | Sliced white bread or brioche | 
| Key Flavor | Butter and garlic salt | Garlic, butter, and herbs like parsley | Cinnamon, sugar, and syrup | 
| Preparation | Griddled or pan-toasted on one or both sides | Toasted or baked, often with melted butter | Soaked in an egg-milk mixture and pan-fried | 
| Texture | Crispy exterior, soft interior | Crispy crust, soft inside | Soft, custard-like interior | 
| Common Pairing | Chicken fingers, dipping sauce | Pasta, Italian dishes | Breakfast foods, brunch | 
Conclusion
What is Cane's bread? It is more than just buttered bread; it's a carefully crafted element of the Raising Cane's menu that combines a unique type of sesame pull-apart bread with a simple yet delicious garlic-butter blend. The signature preparation method of toasting it on a griddle until perfectly golden and crispy results in a side dish that has earned its own devoted fanbase. Whether you're a long-time enthusiast or curious to try it for the first time, understanding the components of this beloved toast offers a new appreciation for its simple perfection.
Visit Raising Cane's official website for more information on their menu.