Sweet Bread French Toast
Thick slices of sweet Hawaiian bread soaked in a rich, cinnamon-vanilla custard and griddled to golden-brown perfection. A truly decadent breakfast that feels like a tropical vacation.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Custard Bath
- b.In a wide, shallow dish such as a pie plate or a rectangular baking dish, whisk together the large eggs until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
- c.Add the whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (if using), and salt.
- d.Whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until the custard is smooth, slightly frothy, and uniform in color.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Soak the Bread Slices
- b.Working one slice at a time, dip the Hawaiian sweet bread into the custard mixture.
- c.Allow each side to soak for 20-30 seconds. The bread should be fully saturated but not so delicate that it falls apart. Set soaked slices on a wire rack.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the French Toast
- b.Place a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Allow it to preheat for 2-3 minutes.
- c.Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the hot skillet and swirl to coat the surface.
- d.Carefully place 2 to 3 soaked bread slices in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- e.Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the surface is a deep golden brown and the center feels slightly firm and puffed.
- f.Remove the cooked French toast and place it on a serving plate or a wire rack in a warm oven (200°F / 95°C).
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel if needed, and repeat the cooking process with the remaining butter and bread slices.
- c.Serve the French toast immediately, garnished with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use day-old or slightly stale bread. It absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
- 2Do not over-soak the bread. A quick dip is sufficient for soft breads like Hawaiian sweet bread.
- 3Maintain a consistent medium heat. If the pan is too hot, the outside will burn before the custard in the center cooks through.
- 4To keep batches warm, place cooked slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven.
- 5For an extra touch of flavor, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the custard mixture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Stuffed French Toast
Create a pocket in each slice of bread and fill with a mixture of cream cheese and fruit jam before soaking and cooking.
Crunchy CoatingCrunchy Coating
After soaking, press one side of the bread into crushed cornflakes or chopped nuts (like macadamia or pecans) before placing it in the skillet for a crunchy texture.
Coconut DreamCoconut Dream
Replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the custard for a more intense tropical flavor.
Dairy Free VersionDairy-Free Version
Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer. Cook with coconut oil instead of butter.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Energy
The carbohydrates from the sweet bread provide a quick and accessible source of energy, making this a filling start to your day.
Provides Protein
Eggs and milk are excellent sources of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and helps promote a feeling of fullness.
Contains Essential Nutrients
This dish offers key nutrients like calcium and Vitamin D from the milk for bone health, and choline from the eggs, which is important for brain function.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of two slices of Sweet Bread French Toast contains approximately 450-550 calories, not including toppings like syrup or butter.