Hawaiian Bread Pudding Recipe for Tropical Bliss

Introduction

Transport your taste buds to the lush tropical landscapes of Hawaii with this vibrant and indulgent Hawaiiwan Bread Pudding, a delightful reinterpretation of a classic comfort dessert. This recipe, inspired by the renowned chef Sam Choy’s tropical culinary creations, combines the richness of coconut, sweetness of pineapple, and the comforting texture of custard-soaked bread, creating a symphony of flavors that evoke the islands’ warm breezes and scenic vistas. Originally conceived as a humble way to utilize stale bread, this dish has evolved into an elegant dessert perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a special treat after a day in the sun. At Love With Recipes, we are dedicated to sharing recipes that celebrate global flavors and bring joy to your table—this Hawaiian Bread Pudding is no exception.

Time

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

45 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 5 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Oven (conventional or convection)
• 13×9 inch baking pan (glass or ceramic)
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or silicone scraper
• Sharp knife for cubing bread
• Grater or food processor (for coconut flakes if fresh)
• Toothpick or cake tester (for doneness check)
• Cooling rack
• Serving plates or bowls
• Optional: food processor or blender (for pureed toppings or sauces)

Tags

• Hawaiian
• Dessert
• Fruit
• Coconut
• Pineapple
• Comfort Food
• Potluck
• Oven-baked
• Kid Friendly
• Easy to Make

Serving Size

Serves approximately 8-10 generous portions, depending on the size of slices and accompaniments.

Difficulty Level

Easy

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

• Vegetarian
• Gluten-containing
• Nut-inclusive

Course

Dessert

Cuisine

Hawaiian, Tropical

Ingredients

In Detail in Tables

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 325°F (163°C). Proper preheating ensures even baking and the perfect golden top. While waiting for the oven to warm, prepare your baking dish and ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk vigorously until they are well combined and slightly frothy. Add the granulated sugar gradually while whisking, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture develops a light, airy consistency. This step is crucial because it creates the base of your custard, giving the pudding its velvety texture.

Next, pour in the milk and coconut milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is uniform. The coconut milk adds a tropical depth and richness, while the regular milk balances the flavors. This custard mixture should be smooth, with no lumps or streaks of egg or sugar.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Pan and Layer Ingredients

Lightly grease your 13×9 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving. Spread a generous layer of cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring coverage with minimal gaps. The bread should be slightly dried and stale for best absorption, but fresh bread can be used if necessary.

Sprinkle the shredded coconut flakes over the bread layer, distributing evenly. Follow with chopped nuts, which lend texture and flavor, enhancing the tropical theme of the dish.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, coconut, and nuts. Use a spatula or spoon to gently press down on the bread cubes, ensuring they are fully immersed and soaking up the custard. This step is vital for achieving a moist, tender pudding with a cohesive texture.

Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes. During this period, the bread absorbs the custard, swelling and softening, which results in a rich, custardy texture after baking.

Step 5: Bake the Bread Pudding

Place the prepared pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean, with no liquid custard attached.

If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the interior finishes baking.

Step 6: Prepare the Pineapple Topping

While the pudding bakes, prepare the tropical topping. In a small bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, remaining shredded coconut (preferably toasted for extra flavor and crunch), and chopped nuts. This mixture will serve as a vibrant, flavorful garnish that complements the warm pudding beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, remove the pudding from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps the custard to set further and makes slicing easier. Serve the pudding warm or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

To serve, cut into generous squares and transfer to individual plates. Top each serving with the pineapple mixture and optionally add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Preparation Tips

• Choice of Bread: Hawaiian sweet bread imparts a unique flavor and tender crumb, but brioche or challah are excellent alternatives that also provide rich, soft textures. For a less sweet version, white bread works well.
• Fruit Variations: Feel free to swap pineapple for mango, papaya, or passion fruit for a different tropical twist. Use fresh or canned fruit, but drain excess syrup to avoid sogginess.
• Nuts and Seeds: Toast nuts beforehand for enhanced flavor. Incorporate other seeds like chia or flax for additional texture and nutrition.
• Custard Consistency: For a firmer pudding, slightly increase the egg count or bake for an extra 10 minutes. For a softer, more custardy result, reduce baking time slightly.
• Spice Adjustments: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to deepen the flavor profile and introduce aromatic complexity.

Tips and Tricks

• Layering Technique: Ensure the bread is evenly distributed and fully soaked for consistent texture throughout the pudding. Gently pressing the bread into the custard enhances absorption.
• Preventing Overbaking: Keep an eye on the pudding during the final minutes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so it’s better to check early and cover if needed.
• Adding Moisture: If the pudding appears too dry before baking, brush a little extra coconut milk or cream on top before placing in the oven.
• Toasting Coconut: Toast shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden, stirring frequently. This enhances flavor and adds crunch to the topping.
• Presentation Enhancements: Serve in individual ramekins for a refined look or in the traditional baking dish for family-style serving.

Add-ons and Variations

• Chocolate Infusion: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the bread layer or custard for a decadent chocolate-tropical combo.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Before baking, dollop cream cheese over the custard and swirl with a toothpick for a luscious texture.
• Caramel Drizzle: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce over each portion for added sweetness and richness.
• Alcoholic Twist: Incorporate a splash of rum or coconut liqueur into the custard for an adult-only variation.

Side Dishes

• Fresh tropical fruit salad—mango, papaya, and kiwi enhance the island vibe.
• Vanilla or coconut ice cream—melts beautifully over warm pudding.
• Whipped cream with a hint of lime or vanilla.
• Light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.

Improvements

• Use homemade bread for superior flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different tropical fruits to customize the flavor profile.
• Add a layer of caramelized bananas or toasted coconut for extra indulgence.
• Adjust spices to suit personal tastes—try ginger or allspice for a more complex spice blend.

Save and Store

Refrigeration

Cover leftover pudding tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The pudding can be reheated in a preheated 325°F (163°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or warmed in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute per serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed.

FAQ

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the pudding a few hours before serving allows the flavors to meld. Bake and then cool slightly before topping and serving. For best texture, reheat gently before serving.

Can I substitute coconut milk?

Absolutely. Regular dairy milk can be used exclusively, but the coconut milk imparts a uniquely tropical flavor that enhances the authenticity of the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Not as currently written due to eggs and dairy. However, vegan alternatives like plant-based milk, flaxseed or chia seed egg substitutes, and vegan bread can be used to adapt the recipe.

Conclusion

This Hawaiiwan Bread Pudding embodies the spirit of the islands—rich, sweet, and bursting with tropical flavors. Its hearty custard base, complemented by the crunch of toasted coconut and the tang of pineapple, makes it an irresistible dessert that captures the essence of Hawaiian hospitality. Perfect for casual family dinners or special celebrations, this dish showcases how humble ingredients can be transformed into an extraordinary culinary experience. At Love With Recipes, we hope this detailed guide inspires you to bring a slice of Hawaii into your home. Remember, the key to a perfect bread pudding is patience and quality ingredients. So gather your supplies, embrace the tropical spirit, and enjoy creating and sharing this delicious dessert with loved ones.

References

• Chef Sam Choy’s Tropical Recipes, Hawaii Magazine, 2015.
• Hawaiian Cookery and Cuisine: A Cultural History, University of Hawaii Press, 2018.