Hawaiian French Toast Bake

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!