Hawaiian French Toast Bake

Imagine waking up to the delightful aroma of sweet rolls, tropical fruits, and warm spices wafting through your kitchen. That’s the magic of the Hawaiian French Toast Bake. This dish combines the classic comfort of French toast with the exotic flavors of Hawaii, creating a breakfast that’s both indulgent and refreshing. It’s perfect for weekend brunches, family gatherings, or any morning when you want to treat yourself to something special.

I first encountered a variation of this dish during a vacation in Hawaii. The blend of rich coconut milk, sweet pineapple, and the unique texture of Hawaiian rolls made it unforgettable. When I returned home, I was determined to recreate that experience. After several attempts, I crafted this recipe, which has now become a favorite in my household. The combination of familiar and tropical flavors makes every bite a delightful adventure.

INGREDIENTS:

1 pack (12-16 count) Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, cubed

6 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup coconut milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Pinch of salt

1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained

Optional: 1/2 cup diced mango

Optional: 1/2 cup shredded coconut

For the Topping (Optional):

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts or almonds

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Base

Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1/2 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Add the Fruits: Stir in 1/2 cup of drained crushed pineapple. If you’re using them, also add 1/2 cup of diced mango and 1/2 cup of shredded coconut. These additions bring extra tropical flavors to the dish.

Soak the Bread: Add the cubed Hawaiian sweet rolls to the egg mixture. Gently stir to ensure all the bread cubes are soaked in the mixture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Pour the Mixture: Pour the soaked bread mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Topping (Optional)

Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of chopped macadamia nuts or almonds. Mix well.

Incorporate the Butter: Add 1/4 cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Sprinkle the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the topping over the bread mixture in the baking dish. This adds a delightful crunchy texture to the finished dish.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the French Toast: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the center should be set. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Cool Slightly: Let the bake cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice.

Add Finishing Touches: For an extra touch, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup. Serve with a side of fresh tropical fruits like sliced bananas, kiwi, or papaya. A scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn this breakfast into a delightful dessert.

Variations & Tips

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread instead of Hawaiian rolls to cater to dietary restrictions. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with a vegan egg substitute, such as flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water equals one egg). Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk, and use vegan butter for the topping.

Flavor Variations: Add a touch of ground ginger or cardamom to the egg mixture for a different spice profile. You can also incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.

Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a low oven until heated through.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian French Toast Bake is a true delight, combining ease with exotic flavors. The rich custard base, sweet tropical fruits, and the unique flavor of Hawaiian rolls create a breakfast that’s both comforting and exciting. The optional crunchy topping adds texture and sweetness, making each bite a pleasure.

This dish is sure to become a favorite, bringing a taste of the tropics right to your breakfast table. It’s perfect for special occasions or a relaxing weekend brunch. Enjoy the warmth, the sweetness, and the smiles it brings to your morning!