Transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Hawaii with our tantalizing Hawaiian French Toast Bake. This delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite combines the irresistible flavors of Hawaiian sweet rolls, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut, creating a breakfast dish that’s as indulgent as it is comforting. Whether you’re hosting a leisurely brunch or simply craving a taste of the tropics, this easy-to-make bake is sure to delight your senses and leave you longing for more. So, kick back, relax, and let the flavors of Hawaii whisk you away to paradise.
Ingredients:
For the French Toast Bake:
- 1 package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
- 1 20oz can crushed pineapple with juices
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 6 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: additional pineapple and coconut, whipped cream, maple syrup, powdered sugar
For the Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the French Toast Base:
- Tear the Hawaiian sweet rolls into bite-sized pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crushed pineapple (with juices) and shredded coconut evenly over the sweet rolls.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, white sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sweet rolls, pineapple, and coconut, ensuring that everything is evenly coated.
4. Prepare the Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and shredded coconut.
- Add the chilled and cubed butter to the dry ingredients, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until crumbly.
5. Assemble and Bake:
- Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the French toast base in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
6. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional pineapple, coconut, whipped cream, maple syrup, or powdered sugar, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Nuts: For added crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts or pecans over the French toast before baking.
- Swap Fruit: Experiment with different fruits such as sliced bananas, mangoes, or berries for a variation on the classic recipe.
- Make it Boozy: Add a splash of rum or coconut rum to the egg mixture for a tropical twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Bread Substitute: Replace the Hawaiian sweet rolls with low-carb bread or keto-friendly bread to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Sweetener Substitute: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of white sugar in both the French toast base and topping.
- Coconut Flour Topping: Substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour in the topping for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I prepare this French toast bake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the French toast bake the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning as directed.
- Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
- Yes, you can use fresh pineapple instead of canned. Simply dice the pineapple into small pieces and use it as directed in the recipe.
- Can I make this French toast bake dairy-free?
- Yes, you can use dairy-free milk and butter substitutes to make this recipe dairy-free. Just ensure that all ingredients are labeled as dairy-free.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover French toast bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Can I freeze this French toast bake?
- Yes, you can freeze this French toast bake for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Experience the flavors of the tropics with our heavenly Hawaiian French Toast Bake – a breakfast delight that’s bursting with tropical sweetness and sunshine. Whether enjoyed on a lazy weekend morning or as a special treat for brunch, this irresistible bake is sure to transport you to a state of pure bliss with each delicious bite. So, gather your loved ones and embark on a culinary journey to paradise with this easy-to-make and utterly delightful recipe that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Hawaii.