Description
This Hawaiian French Toast Casserole combines tropical pineapple and shredded coconut with a rich custardy baked French toast base. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, it offers layers of buttery bread soaked in a sweet custard, topped with brown sugar and spices for a golden, flavorful finish. Quick to prepare, make-ahead friendly, and easily customizable, it brings a sunny island vibe to your morning meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Fruit
- 6 cups thick-cut bread (brioche or challah), sliced or cubed
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple, cut into chunks
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Toppings and Flavorings
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread and Pineapple: Cut your bread into thick slices or cubes, ensuring they are sturdy and not too crumbly. Grease your baking dish well, then evenly spread the pineapple chunks at the bottom to create a tropical base layer.
- Layer the Bread and Coconut: Arrange the bread pieces over the pineapple layer. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the bread to distribute island flavor throughout the casserole.
- Whisk the Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk together until smooth and fragrant. Pour the custard evenly over the layered bread and pineapple, pressing lightly so the bread soaks up the mixture.
- Let It Soak: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully. For best flavor and texture, soak overnight if prepping ahead.
- Bake Until Golden: Remove the foil, dot the top with small pieces of butter, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is fully set.
Notes
- Use day-old bread to better absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
- Don’t skip the soaking step for a custardy, flavorful casserole.
- Grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Adjust brown sugar amount according to the sweetness of your pineapple.
- Add a crunchy topping such as toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of casserole)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: Hawaiian French Toast Casserole, tropical breakfast, pineapple, coconut, baked French toast, make-ahead breakfast, brunch recipe, gluten-free French toast