Crispy Baked Prawn Toast

If you love that satisfying crunch followed by a burst of savory seafood flavor, this Crispy Baked Prawn Toast will become your new favorite. It has all the flavors of the classic fried version but with a lighter, baked twist that still gives you the crisp edges and juicy prawn center you crave. Pair it with a creamy sweet chili mayo and a side of fries, and you’ve got a snack or meal that tastes like pure comfort.

Behind the Recipe

Prawn toast has always been a crowd favorite at family gatherings and weekend takeouts. I wanted to make a version that keeps all the flavor but skips the deep frying. After a few tries, this baked version came out perfectly—golden, crunchy, and still packed with prawn flavor. It’s proof that you don’t always need a fryer to create something deliciously indulgent.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Prawn toast originally comes from Hong Kong and has become popular around the world, especially in Chinese restaurants. Traditionally, it’s deep-fried bread spread with minced prawns and topped with sesame seeds. This version keeps the same inspiration but uses baking for a cleaner, lighter finish. It’s the perfect blend of East and West—classic flavor with a modern healthy twist.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Prawn Toast

It’s fast, flavorful, and so satisfying that you’ll keep going back for another slice.

Versatile: Works as an appetizer, lunch, or side dish.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients with big flavor.
Quick and Easy: Comes together fast with minimal prep.
Customizable: Add spices, herbs, or toppings to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves crispy bread with a savory topping.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the mixture in advance and bake when needed.
Great for Leftovers: Reheat in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crunch.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Get the crunch, the flavor, and that golden finish every time.

1. Keep the prawns cold: Cold prawns blend better and stay firm in texture.
2. Use fresh bread: Slightly soft sandwich bread works best for spreading evenly.
3. Don’t overload the topping: A thin, even layer cooks evenly and stays crisp.
4. Brush, don’t soak: Use a brush to apply oil or ghee for even browning.
5. Bake until golden: Watch closely at the end—color is everything.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Nothing fancy, just a few essentials to make things easy.

Food processor: To blend the prawn mixture smoothly.
Mixing bowls: For preparing the mixture and sauces.
Baking sheet: For even baking and crispy texture.
Pastry brush: To coat bread with oil or ghee evenly.
Spatula: For spreading the prawn paste neatly.

Ingredients in Crispy Baked Prawn Toast

Every ingredient adds a layer of flavor and texture, creating that signature balance of crisp and savory.

1. King prawns: 300 g, cleaned and deveined. The star of the show, juicy and flavorful.
2. MSG (optional): 1 teaspoon. Enhances umami depth.
3. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Brings out the natural seafood sweetness.
4. White pepper: 1 teaspoon. Adds a subtle heat and aroma.
5. Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons. Helps bind the mixture for a smooth spread.
6. Egg whites: 2. Gives the mixture a light and airy texture.
7. Chopped scallions: 2 tablespoons. Adds a burst of freshness.
8. Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon. Gives a nutty, aromatic touch.
9. Sandwich bread: 8 slices. The perfect soft base for the topping.
10. Oil or ghee: For brushing before baking to create crisp edges.
11. Sesame seeds (optional): For that signature golden crunch.
12. Mayonnaise: 5 tablespoons. Creamy base for the dipping sauce.
13. Sweet chili sauce: 2 tablespoons. Balances the mayo with sweet heat.
14. French fries: To serve alongside for a complete meal.
15. Extra sweet chili mayo: For dipping, because one bowl is never enough.

Ingredient Substitutions

Prawns: Use shrimp if you prefer.
White pepper: Swap with black pepper.
Cornstarch: Potato starch works too.
Bread: Any sandwich bread, white or whole grain.
Sesame oil: Try olive oil or neutral oil if needed.
Sweet chili sauce: Use sriracha mixed with honey for a similar flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

King Prawns: Juicy, tender, and slightly sweet, they make the perfect topping when blended.
Sesame Oil: Just a teaspoon brings depth, warmth, and that signature Asian flavor note.

Instructions for Making Crispy Baked Prawn Toast

Let’s bring this delicious dish together from start to finish.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a food processor, blend prawns, MSG, salt, white pepper, cornstarch, egg whites, scallions, and sesame oil until smooth but slightly textured.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Place the bread slices on the baking sheet. Lightly brush the surface with oil or ghee.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Spread a generous layer of the prawn mixture on one side of each bread slice. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if using.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and crisp on top. Flip halfway if needed for even browning.
6. Finishing Touches:
   While the toasts bake, mix mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce to create your dipping sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Cut the prawn toast into triangles, serve with fries, and dip in sweet chili mayo. Best enjoyed warm and crispy.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The contrast is what makes it irresistible—the crisp bread, the soft prawn filling, and that creamy, tangy dip. The sesame oil and scallions bring warmth and aroma, while the sweet chili mayo adds a cooling, spicy-sweet balance.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Bake on the middle rack for even crisping.
• Don’t over-blend the prawns; you want a bit of texture.
• Toast the bread slightly before topping for extra crunch.
• Air fry for 7–8 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for a lighter version.

What to Avoid

• Overcrowding the tray: It prevents even browning.
• Spreading the paste too thick: The center may not cook fully.
• Using too much oil: It makes the bread soggy instead of crisp.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make the prawn mixture a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. You can also assemble the toasts and refrigerate them before baking. Cooked prawn toasts reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer. Avoid microwaving—they’ll lose their crunch.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Prawn Toast

Serve hot with a bowl of sweet chili mayo and crispy fries on the side. You can also cut them into bite-sized triangles for party platters or pair them with a light Asian salad for a full meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Prawn toast bites: Reheat and top with a bit of sriracha mayo.
• Sandwich twist: Layer between lettuce and tomato for a crunchy seafood sandwich.
• Breakfast idea: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and greens.

Additional Tips

• For more flavor, add grated ginger or chili flakes to the prawn mix.
• If you love crunch, sprinkle more sesame seeds before baking.
• Serve with a wedge of lime for a bright, zesty finish.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange the toasts in a circular pattern on a large platter, drizzle with extra sweet chili mayo, and sprinkle with chopped scallions or sesame seeds. Add fries in a small bowl on the side for a complete, eye-catching presentation.

Variations to Try

• Spicy version: Add a bit of chili paste to the prawn mixture.
• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top before baking.
• Asian-fusion: Mix in soy sauce or miso for deeper flavor.
• Herb delight: Add fresh cilantro or basil to the mixture.
• Mini toasts: Use baguette slices for bite-sized appetizers.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen prawns?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before blending.

Q2: Can I fry instead of bake?

Absolutely, shallow fry in hot oil until golden and crisp.

Q3: Can I make it without MSG?

Yes, just skip it or use a little soy sauce for umami flavor.

Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?

Use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Q5: Can I use other bread?

Yes, any soft sandwich bread or even baguette slices work.

Q6: Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze assembled uncooked toasts on a tray, then bake straight from frozen.

Q7: Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread and cornstarch.

Q8: Can I add cheese?

Definitely, mozzarella or cheddar adds creaminess.

Q9: How can I make it spicier?

Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the prawn mixture.

Q10: What goes best with it?

A fresh salad, crispy fries, or an extra bowl of sweet chili mayo.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Prawn Toast is that perfect mix of texture and flavor — crunchy, creamy, and full of umami goodness. It’s easy to make, fun to eat, and always a hit with guests or family. Trust me, once you try this baked version, you’ll never miss the fried kind. It’s worth every bite.

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