Hawaiian Sweet Bread Strata

Hawaiian Sweet Bread Strata is a rich, savory-sweet breakfast casserole made with soft Hawaiian rolls, creamy eggs, melty cheese, and crispy bacon. This dish is the ultimate make-ahead brunch recipe—perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy weekend mornings. Its irresistible balance of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet & Savory Flavor: The soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls pair perfectly with salty bacon and cheese.
• Easy to Make Ahead: Assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
• Great for Brunch or Breakfast: Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like sausage, veggies, or different cheeses.
• Comfort Food Classic: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying every time.

Ingredients

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

• Hawaiian sweet rolls (about 6–8 rolls)
• 3 large eggs
• ⅔ cup half-and-half
• ½ cup skim milk
• ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
• 4 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the Hawaiian rolls into 1-inch cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 10 minutes until slightly crisp.
3. Grease a 1½-quart baking dish and add the toasted bread cubes.
4. Sprinkle half of the Swiss, cheddar, bacon, and green onions over the bread.
5. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour over the bread mixture, gently pressing the cubes to absorb the liquid.
6. Top with remaining cheese, bacon, green onions, and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is set. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Meat Lover’s: Add sausage or ham along with bacon.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Mini Stratas: Bake in individual ramekins for personal portions.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through or microwave single portions for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I prepare Hawaiian Sweet Bread Strata the night before?

Yes! Assemble the strata, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next morning.

Do I need to toast the bread cubes first?

Toasting helps prevent the strata from becoming too soggy and gives better texture.

Can I use different bread?

Yes. While Hawaiian bread adds a unique sweetness, any sturdy bread like brioche or challah will work.

What cheeses can I use?

Swiss and cheddar are classic, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Gruyère, or pepper jack.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the bacon and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

How do I know when the strata is fully cooked?

The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute with your favorite gluten-free bread.

Can I freeze the strata before baking?

It’s best frozen after baking. Assemble, bake, cool, then freeze in portions for easy reheating.

Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?

Yes, for an extra rich texture, use heavy cream in place of or alongside the milk.

What goes well with this dish?

Serve it with fresh fruit, salad, or a mimosa for a full brunch spread.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Sweet Bread Strata brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your brunch table. With soft, sweet rolls soaking up a savory egg custard and a golden, cheesy top, this dish is always a hit. Whether you’re feeding guests or prepping ahead for the weekend, this strata is a delicious way to elevate your morning meal.

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