Kathryn Hahn’s 3-Ingredient Bunker Special Toast Copycat Recipe

Kathryn Hahn’s Bunker Special is the kind of comfort food that brings you straight back to childhood kitchens and after-school snacks. This simple three-ingredient recipe—white bread, peanut butter, and brown sugar—is a family heirloom passed down from Hahn’s mother, whose maiden name was Bunker. Broiled until warm, golden, and just crisp enough, it’s the easiest sweet toast upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

Whether you’re a nostalgic snacker or a peanut butter enthusiast, there’s something undeniably addictive about the Bunker Special.

• Just 3 ingredients—nothing fancy, just pantry staples.
• Quick to make—ready in minutes for a sweet, satisfying bite.
• Perfect texture—melty, creamy peanut butter with a caramelized sugar crunch.
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved—ideal for after-school cravings or late-night comfort.

What Is the Dish?

The Bunker Special is more than just peanut butter toast—it’s a family legacy. Kathryn Hahn, known for her scene-stealing roles and now for her snack game, introduced this humble treat on her “Last Meals” episode. Not meant as a dessert, this sweet-savory toast was always a snack passed through generations of the Bunker family. Its beauty lies in its simplicity—and its irresistible taste.

Cooking Tips

• Use a thick slice of white bread to prevent sogginess.
• Spread peanut butter evenly, all the way to the edges to avoid burning.
• Sprinkle brown sugar generously, but be cautious—it burns quickly.
• Broil, don’t bake: Watch closely and pull it out as soon as it starts bubbling.
• Try toppings like sea salt, cinnamon, or sliced bananas if you want to elevate it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

Creamy works best for even spreading, but crunchy adds an extra textural twist. Just avoid natural peanut butter that separates easily.

How Long Should I Broil It?

Usually 2–3 minutes, depending on your oven. Watch closely—brown sugar caramelizes fast and can burn in seconds.

Can I Use Other Types of Bread?

Yes, but stick to soft, airy types like brioche or sandwich bread. Dense or sour bread won’t toast as nicely under the broiler.

Is It Okay for Kids?

Absolutely. It’s sweet, simple, and contains protein from the peanut butter—just monitor the broiling step.

Can I Make It Without Broiling?

If you don’t have a broiler, try using a toaster oven on high or baking at 425°F for a few extra minutes. The caramelization might differ slightly.

Does the Sugar Have to Be Brown?

Brown sugar is key for that molasses-rich crunch, but in a pinch, turbinado or a brown sugar blend works too.

How to Store

The Bunker Special is best eaten fresh. If needed, store leftovers loosely wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 12 hours. Reheat under a broiler or in a toaster oven to revive the crisp topping.

How to Freeze

This toast isn’t ideal for freezing post-broil, as the sugar topping can become sticky when thawed. If necessary, freeze the unbroiled, assembled slices (bread + peanut butter + sugar) wrapped in parchment and foil. Broil directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the cook time.

Ingredients

• 1 slice of white sandwich bread
• 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
• 1–2 teaspoons brown sugar, to taste
• Optional toppings: sea salt, cinnamon, banana slices

Step-by-Step Instructions