Welcome to the delightful world of Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread! This mouthwatering recipe takes you on a culinary journey to the pristine beaches of Hawaii, where the soft, pillowy bread is as sweet as the aloha spirit. With its light and fluffy texture and a hint of tropical goodness, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as an accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting in the world of baking, this recipe is bound to make you feel like a true Hawaiian artisan in your kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Tropical Paradise in Every Bite: The combination of crushed pineapple and sweetened coconut brings a taste of the Hawaiian islands right to your table.
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: The careful balance of ingredients and the right kneading technique result in a soft, fluffy, and tender bread that’s a joy to eat.
- Versatile Delicacy: Enjoy it with breakfast, serve it as a snack, or pair it with various dishes – this bread adapts beautifully to any occasion.
- Simple to Make: The step-by-step instructions make it easy for both seasoned bakers and beginners to achieve bakery-quality results.
- Long-Lasting Freshness: Proper storage options allow you to enjoy the bread for several days or even months if kept in the freezer.
- Impress Your Guests: Sharing this delightful and exotic bread with friends and family will surely impress and leave them craving for more.
So why wait? Grab your apron, put on your chef’s hat, and get ready to savor the taste of paradise with this heavenly Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread recipe!

Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm water (around 110°F or 45°C)
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup canned crushed pineapple (with juice)
- 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut
How To Make Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread Recipe?
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the yeast mixture, crushed pineapple, and sweetened shredded coconut.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 6: Shape the Bread
Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pans with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for an additional 1 hour, or until it reaches just above the rim of the pans.
Step 8: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Bake the Bread
Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with your favorite spreads or enjoy it on its own.
Recipe Tips
- Be patient with the dough – let it rise until it’s doubled in size for that fluffy texture.
- Have fun kneading – it’s a great stress reliever and essential for a smooth dough.
- Don’t rush the baking time – golden brown means it’s perfectly baked and delicious!
- Share the joy – this sweet bread is perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones.
- Experiment with toppings – try adding toasted coconut or a drizzle of honey for extra flair.
- Embrace imperfections – homemade bread may not look store-bought, but it’s made with love.
- Freeze for later – portion the dough and freeze for fresh bread anytime you want it.
- Create memories – involve friends or family in the baking process for a memorable experience.
- Take pictures – capture the moments and share your creations with the world.
- Enjoy the journey – baking is about pleasure and fulfillment, so have fun and enjoy the process!
How To Store Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread Recipe?
- Fridge Storage: To keep the Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread fresh for an extended period, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer Storage: If you wish to store the bread for a more extended period, the freezer is your friend. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.

How To Reheat Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread Recipe?
- Toaster or Toaster Oven: Pop individual slices into the toaster or toaster oven until they’re warm and toasty.
- Microwave: For a quick fix, microwave a slice on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
- Oven: Wrap the whole loaf in foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Griddle or Pan: Warm slices on a non-stick griddle or pan over low heat, flipping them once they’re heated through.
Remember, it’s best to enjoy the bread soon after reheating to savor that fresh-baked goodness!
What To Serve With This Recipe?
- Fresh Fruit: Serve it with a side of tropical fruits like juicy pineapple, sweet mango, or ripe papaya for a refreshing and colorful combination.
- Whipped Butter: Slather warm slices with whipped butter to enhance the sweet flavors and add a creamy touch.
- Coconut Jam: Spread a generous amount of coconut jam or cream on the bread for an extra burst of coconut goodness.
- Hawaiian Breakfast: Accompany the bread with classic Hawaiian breakfast items like spam musubi, loco moco, or a side of poi for an authentic island-inspired meal.
- Hawaiian Coffee: Sip on a cup of Hawaiian Kona coffee alongside the bread to complete the tropical experience.
Enjoy your Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread with these delicious companions!

Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead Of Canned?
While fresh pineapple can be used, canned crushed pineapple provides the right moisture and sweetness, ensuring a consistent and delicious outcome.
Can I Replace All-Purpose Flour With Whole Wheat Flour?
For a healthier twist, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. However, using all whole wheat flour may result in denser bread.
How Can I Tell If The Bread Is Fully Baked?
The bread is fully baked when it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Can I Freeze The Dough Instead Of The Baked Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, shape it, and proceed with the second rise and baking.
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Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin A: 4% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 2% DV
- Calcium: 2% DV
- Iron: 8% DV

Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread Recipe
Description
Indulge in the tropical flavors of Punaluu Hawaiian Sweet Bread! This delightful recipe brings the taste of Hawaii to your home with its soft, fluffy texture and a touch of crushed pineapple and sweet coconut. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, it’s a real treat. While not a health food, it’s a joyful, occasional indulgence that’ll transport you to the islands with every bite. So, grab a slice, add some butter, and savor the aloha spirit in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the yeast mixture, crushed pineapple, and sweetened shredded coconut.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them in greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
- Cover the loaf pans with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise for an additional 1 hour, or until it reaches just above the rim of the pans.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve with your favorite spreads or enjoy it on its own.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Step 5: First Rise
Step 6: Shape the Bread
Step 7: Second Rise
Step 8: Preheat the Oven
Step 9: Bake the Bread
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Notes
- Be patient with the dough – let it rise until it’s doubled in size for that fluffy texture.
- Have fun kneading – it’s a great stress reliever and essential for a smooth dough.
- Don’t rush the baking time – golden brown means it’s perfectly baked and delicious!
- Share the joy – this sweet bread is perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones.
- Experiment with toppings – try adding toasted coconut or a drizzle of honey for extra flair.
- Embrace imperfections – homemade bread may not look store-bought, but it’s made with love.
- Freeze for later – portion the dough and freeze for fresh bread anytime you want it.
- Create memories – involve friends or family in the baking process for a memorable experience.
- Take pictures – capture the moments and share your creations with the world.
- Enjoy the journey – baking is about pleasure and fulfillment, so have fun and enjoy the process!
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 200
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6g10%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Cholesterol 40mg14%
- Sodium 100mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 10g
- Protein 4g8%
- Vitamin A 4 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 2 mg
- Iron 8 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.