Toast is a slice of
bread that has been
browned by exposure to radiant
heat. This browning is the result of a
Maillard reaction, altering the flavor of the bread as well as making it firmer so that it is easier to spread toppings on it. Toasting is a common method of making
stale bread more
palatable. Bread is often toasted using a
toaster, an electrical appliance with heating elements.
Toaster ovens are also used for toasting bread.