Crispy Garlic Bread

Makes 12 slices

12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

4 garlic cloves, grated or minced

1/4 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

12 (1-inch) slices Italian bread

1. Make Paste.

Adjust oven rack to middle position, place rimmed baking sheet on rack, and heat oven to 425 degrees.

Using fork, beat butter, garlic, sugar, salt and pepper in small bowl until combined. Spread butter mixture evenly over both sides of bread.

2. Toast Bread.

Arrange buttered bread on heated baking sheet and bake until golden brown on first side, 8 to 10 minutes. Flip and bake until golden brown on second side, about 5 minutes. Serve.