Toast Hawaii Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s an effortless nostalgia trip that takes me back to simpler times with its sweet and savory blend of ham, pineapple, and melty cheese. Plus, the contrasting textures and flavors make it a fun and satisfying dish that never fails to put a smile on my face, especially when shared with friends during a chill hangout.

I enjoy the medley of flavors in Toast Hawaii. Sweet pineapple rings and savory cooked ham contrast beautifully, while molten cheese melds everything together for a very creamy finish.

I like using Gouda or Emmental for that extra creaminess. A maraschino cherry on top makes it visually stunning, too.

Buttering the bread—”German toast” style—keeps the outside nice and crisp, while a sprinkle of salt and pepper makes all the flavors pop. You could say this is an island delicacy.

Ingredients

• Bread: Provides carbohydrates and fiber; the comforting base of the dish.
• Cooked Ham: Rich in protein; adds a savory, meaty flavor.
• Pineapple Rings: Adds sweetness and a tropical tang while being rich in vitamin C.
• Cheese: Offers creaminess and protein; melts deliciously over the stack.
• Maraschino Cherries: Optional garnish; provides a pop of color and extra sweetness.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 slices of bread
• 4 slices of cooked ham
• 4 pineapple rings
• 4 slices of cheese (such as Gouda or Emmental)
• Butter (for spreading)
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm while you prepare the food.

2. One side of each slice of bread should be lightly buttered. Then place the bread on a baking tray, with the buttered side facing down.

3. Put a piece of cooked ham on each slice of bread.

4. Place a pineapple ring on top of each slice of ham.

5. Place a slice of cheese on top of each pineapple ring, making sure it is distributed evenly over the surface.

6. Add a small amount of salt and pepper so that the dish is seasoned to your taste.

7. Put the baking tray in the oven that has been preheated to the required temperature.

8. Approximately 10-15 minutes should be spent baking these until the cheese has melted and is bubbling with a slight golden hue.

9. If garnishing with maraschino cherries, place one cherry atop each toast that has melted cheese.

10. Enjoy your delicious Toast Hawaii, served warm!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking tray
3. Butter knife or spatula (for spreading butter)
4. Oven mitts (for safety when handling the hot tray)
5. Measuring spoons (optional, for salt and pepper)

FAQ

• What type of bread should I use?
  You can use any sliced bread you prefer. A classic choice is white sandwich bread, but whole grain or a rustic sourdough can add extra flavor.
• Can I substitute another meat for ham?
  Yes, you can use turkey or chicken slices as substitutes for ham.
• What cheese is best for Toast Hawaii?
  Gouda and Emmental are traditional choices, but you can also use Cheddar or Swiss cheese for a different taste.
• Is it necessary to use maraschino cherries?
  Maraschino cherries are optional. They provide a classic touch and a pop of color, but the dish will still be delicious without them.
• How should I toast the bread?
  You can lightly butter the bread and toast it in a preheated oven or a toaster oven until golden brown.
• Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
  Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, and it will provide a more vibrant and fresh flavor.
• How do I prevent the toast from becoming soggy?
  Ensure the pineapple is well-drained and consider briefly toasting each ingredient separately to reduce moisture before assembling.

Substitutions and Variations

Four slices of bread: Replace with whole grain bread or brioche for a unique taste and texture.
4 slices of cooked ham: Replace with slices of turkey or chicken breast for a lighter option.
Four rings of pineapple: Swap out for fresh mango slices or rings of peach.
4 slices of cheese (like Gouda or Emmental): Swap in cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Use olive oil or a plant-based spread as a substitute for butter (for spreading) to achieve a dairy-free alternative.

Pro Tips

1. Toast the Bread Slightly First Before assembling, give the bread a light toasting. This helps prevent it from becoming soggy as it bakes and adds a nice texture contrast.

2. Use Fresh Pineapple If possible, use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor and better texture.

3. Opt for a Flavorful Cheese Consider using a cheese with a bit more sharpness or flavor, such as aged cheddar or Gruyère, to complement the sweetness of the pineapple and ham.

4. Add a Touch of Mustard Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bread before adding the ham for an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

5. Experiment with Layers For an enhanced taste and a bit of extra decadence, add a thin slice of cooked bacon on top of the ham before piling on the pineapple and cheese.