Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe makes approximately 6–8 servings, depending on portion size.
- 1 loaf (about 16 ounces) French bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks or tidbits, thoroughly drained
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional toppings
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped macadamia nuts or pecans
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Extra pineapple pieces
Brioche makes the bake rich and soft, while French bread gives it a slightly firmer texture. Day-old bread is particularly useful because it absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy.
How to Make Hawaiian French Toast Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
Cut the bread into roughly equal-sized cubes. If your bread is very fresh and soft, spread the cubes on a baking sheet and let them sit out for a little while to dry slightly.
Step 2: Make the Egg Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
Continue whisking until the eggs are fully incorporated and the sugar has mostly dissolved. This mixture provides the creamy center and sweet flavor that make French toast so satisfying.
Step 3: Add the Bread and Pineapple
Place the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the drained pineapple pieces evenly throughout the bread.
Pour the egg mixture over everything, moving the bread gently with a spoon so the custard reaches the lower layers. Press down lightly on any pieces that remain dry on top.
Let the mixture rest for about 15–20 minutes before baking. If you have time, cover and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight instead.
Step 4: Add the Butter and Optional Toppings
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
If you enjoy extra tropical flavor, sprinkle shredded coconut over the surface. Chopped macadamia nuts or pecans add a pleasant crunch, although you can leave them out for a simpler version.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake uncovered for approximately 40–50 minutes, checking toward the end of the cooking time.
The top should look lightly golden, the center should be set rather than liquid, and the bread should feel tender when pierced with a knife. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil for the remaining baking time.
Because the bake contains eggs and milk, the center should reach 160°F (71°C) for food safety. If it needs more time, return it to the oven and check again.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the French toast bake rest for about 5–10 minutes before cutting it into portions.
Serve warm with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or a few extra pineapple pieces. For a brunch spread, pair it with fresh berries, yogurt, scrambled eggs, or breakfast sausage.