In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly to toast the spices.
Add the drained cannellini beans to the skillet. Gently mash some of the beans with a fork while stirring to combine everything. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
While the beans are cooking, toast the slices of whole grain bread until golden brown.
To serve, spoon the cheesy masala beans over the toasted bread and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.