There’s something truly magical about the sweet, soft, and slightly buttery texture of Hawaiian sweet bread. Whether you’re slicing it for sandwiches, toasting it for breakfast, or simply enjoying it fresh out of the oven, this bread brings a touch of island paradise to your kitchen.
What’s even better? Making it yourself at home using a bread machine, which simplifies the process and guarantees a perfectly risen, tender loaf every time.
If you’ve been intimidated by homemade bread or just want a foolproof way to bake Hawaiian sweet bread, this recipe is your new best friend.
Using a bread machine not only saves time but also ensures consistent results, allowing the dough to mix, knead, rise, and bake with minimal effort from you. The subtle sweetness comes from pineapple juice and a hint of honey, rounded out by the warmth of a touch of vanilla.
This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike, offering a delightful homemade treat that’s far better than store-bought versions. Ready to bring a bit of aloha spirit into your home?
Let’s dive into this Hawaiian sweet bread recipe for your bread machine.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hawaiian sweet bread recipe is a game-changer for bread lovers looking for something a little different. It’s:
- Easy to Make: Just add ingredients to your bread machine and let it work its magic.
- Soft and Moist: Thanks to the pineapple juice and milk, every bite is tender and flavorful.
- Sweet but Balanced: The sweetness is subtle, perfect for sandwiches or toast.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, use it for sliders, or pair it with savory dishes.
- Consistently Delicious: Your bread machine ensures perfect kneading and rising every time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned, unsweetened preferred)
- 1/4 cup whole milk, warmed (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup honey or granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (optional, for a richer dough)
Equipment
- Bread machine with a dough and bake cycle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon (for scraping)
- Cooling rack
- Loaf pan (if your bread machine has a dough-only cycle)
- Kitchen thermometer (optional, to check milk temperature)
Instructions
- Add Liquids First: Pour the pineapple juice, warmed milk, softened butter, and vanilla extract into the bread machine pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the bread flour, salt, and honey (or sugar).
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the flour mixture on top of the liquid ingredients in the bread machine pan, making sure it covers the liquids completely.
- Add Yeast: Make a small well on the top of the flour and add the active dry yeast here, being careful it doesn’t touch the liquid.
- Add Egg (Optional): If using, crack the egg into the mixture now for a richer bread.
- Select Setting: Close the bread machine lid and select the “Sweet” or “Basic” bread setting, choosing your loaf size (usually 1.5 lbs or 2 lbs).
- Start Machine: Press start and let the machine knead, rise, and bake the bread. This cycle usually takes 3 to 4 hours depending on your machine.
- Cool Bread: Once baking is complete, remove the bread from the machine and transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
“For extra Hawaiian flair, try adding shredded coconut or macadamia nuts into the dough during the last kneading cycle!”
- Check Dough Consistency: If the dough looks too sticky or dry during kneading, feel free to add a tablespoon of flour or water as needed.
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise.
- Flavor Boost: Substitute honey with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
- Glaze Option: Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sugar right after baking for a shiny, sweet crust.
- Make Rolls: Use the dough cycle only, then shape into rolls before baking in the oven.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Slice (1/12 loaf) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 3.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Serving Suggestions
This Hawaiian sweet bread is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
- Breakfast: Toast slices and spread with butter, jam, or cream cheese for a sweet start to your day.
- Sandwiches: Use it for ham and pineapple sliders, pulled pork sandwiches, or classic grilled cheese.
- Snacks: Enjoy with a drizzle of honey or as a base for French toast.
- Accompaniment: Serve alongside soups, stews, or tropical-inspired dishes like poke bowls.
Conclusion
Making Hawaiian sweet bread in your bread machine is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh, homemade bread with minimal effort. The combination of pineapple juice, honey, and vanilla creates a soft, slightly sweet loaf that’s perfect for any meal or snack.
Whether you’re new to bread baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time. Plus, the flexibility to customize with add-ins or shape the dough as you please makes it a versatile favorite in any kitchen.
Enjoy the warm, comforting aroma and taste of this island-inspired bread fresh from your own home. For more delicious baking ideas, be sure to check out some of our other favorites like Classic Banana Bread, Soft Dinner Rolls, and Cinnamon Swirl Bread.
Happy baking and aloha!
📖 Recipe Card: Hawaiian Sweet Bread Recipe Machine
Description: A soft and fluffy Hawaiian sweet bread made easily with a bread machine. Perfect for sandwiches or as a sweet snack.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT3H30M
Total Time: PT3H45M
Servings: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple juice, warm
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add pineapple juice, sugar, and yeast to bread machine pan; let sit 5 minutes.
- Add flour, salt, butter, egg, milk, honey, and vanilla extract to the pan.
- Select the sweet bread setting and start the machine.
- Once baking is complete, remove bread and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition: Calories: 200 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 3g | Carbs: 38g
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