Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Sweet Bread Strata is a rich, custardy baked dish that combines the soft, slightly sweet flavor of Hawaiian bread with savory eggs, cheese, and your choice of meats or vegetables. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or make-ahead breakfasts, this strata offers a balance of sweet and savory in every comforting bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Hawaiian sweet bread (cubed)eggsmilk or half-and-halfcheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)ham or bacon (cooked and chopped)onions (sautéed)bell peppers (optional)buttersalt and pepper

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions (and bell peppers if using) until soft. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared dish, then add half of the cheese, cooked meat, and sautéed veggies.

Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, cheese, meat, and vegetables.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, pressing down slightly to help soak the bread.

Let sit for at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for a more custardy texture.

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 15 minutes (or overnight)
Baking time: 45–55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes (or overnight + bake)

Variations

Use sausage or turkey bacon for a different flavor.
Add spinach or mushrooms for a veggie-forward option.
Try Swiss or mozzarella for a cheese variation.
Make it spicy with jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Use pineapple chunks for a sweet-savory Hawaiian twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake covered at 325°F (165°C) until warmed through.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make this the night before?
Yes, it’s perfect for overnight prep—just bake in the morning.

Does it have to be Hawaiian sweet bread?
The sweet flavor balances the savory filling, but you can substitute brioche or challah.

Can I make it without meat?
Absolutely, it works well as a vegetarian dish.

Why is my strata soggy?
Make sure to let it bake long enough, and avoid using too much liquid.

Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, use unsweetened almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

Can I freeze the unbaked strata?
It’s better to bake first, then freeze for best texture.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Sweet Bread Strata brings together soft, slightly sweet bread and savory, cheesy fillings in a rich baked casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. Whether you’re prepping ahead or serving fresh from the oven, this dish is a delicious addition to your breakfast or brunch table.