Simple, elegant, and utterly satisfying, Tartines beurrées are a cornerstone of French breakfasts. Unlike pastries or elaborate brunch dishes, tartines are all about high-quality bread and butter. In France, this is not just breakfast—it’s a ritual. Crisp, fresh bread, generously spread with rich, creamy butter, can be accompanied by a touch of jam, honey, or simply enjoyed as-is.

Whether eaten at a Parisian café with a café au lait or at home with morning sunlight streaming through the window, tartines beurrées are a perfect way to start the day with indulgence and simplicity.

Ingredients

For 2 servings:

4 slices of fresh French bread (baguette, pain de campagne, or country loaf)

40–50 g unsalted butter (preferably French-style, like Président or Beurre d’Isigny)

Optional toppings:

Fruit jams (apricot, strawberry, raspberry)

Honey

Soft cheese (like chèvre)

Sliced fresh fruits (like strawberries or bananas)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Selecting the Bread

Choose fresh, high-quality bread with a crisp crust and soft interior.

A slightly stale loaf can also work; it will lightly toast and hold the butter better.

2. Preparing the Butter

Use unsalted butter at room temperature for easy spreading.

For extra flavor, lightly soften the butter or whip it for a fluffier texture.

3. Toasting the Bread (Optional)

Slice the bread 1–2 cm thick.

Toast lightly in a toaster, under a broiler, or in a dry skillet.

Tartines are delicious even without toasting, but a slight crisp adds texture.

4. Assembling the Tartines

Spread a generous layer of butter on each slice while the bread is warm, allowing it to melt slightly.

Add optional toppings like jam, honey, or fresh fruits if desired.

Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Pair tartines beurrées with a café au lait, espresso, or hot chocolate for a classic French breakfast.

Serve alongside soft-boiled eggs or fresh fruit for a more complete brunch.

For a decadent variation, drizzle with a touch of maple syrup or sprinkle with sea salt.

Chef’s Tips

Quality is Key: The beauty of tartines lies in the simplicity; invest in good bread and butter.

Room Temperature Butter: Soft butter spreads easily and enhances the flavor.

Texture Play: Slightly toasting the bread creates contrast between the crisp crust and soft interior.

Seasonal Flair: Add fresh berries, figs, or citrus zest for a seasonal twist.

The Charm of Simple Indulgence

Tartines beurrées embody the French philosophy of food: simple, high-quality ingredients celebrated with care. It’s more than a meal—it’s a morning ritual, a quiet pleasure, and a reminder that sometimes the simplest foods are the most satisfying.