Disney's Tonga Toast

Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with Disney's Tonga Toast! This iconic breakfast treat from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a thick slice of sourdough stuffed with sweet banana, fried to golden perfection, and coated in a crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust. It’s like having a slice of banana-stuffed French toast heaven that'll make your mornings feel extra magical!

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Below you will find tips, tricks and helpful hints for making this recipe including step by step instructions with pictures. If you would like to go directly to the recipe, scroll down to the recipe card or tap "Jump to Recipe" at the top of the page.

Disney’s Polynesian Resort

One of my favorite things to do at Walt Disney World is to go resort hopping. That is when you take time to visit the different resort hotels on the Disney World property. The Walt Disney World Resort monorail loop has some of my favorite resorts. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

At Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, we always stop at Pineapple Lanai to get a refreshing Dole Whip Float (you can get my DIY Dole Whip recipe here). If we happen to be at the resort in the morning, we have to stop at Kona Cafe to get an order of Tonga Toast!

Tonga Toast

If you're looking for a fun and indulgent breakfast, Disney's Tonga Toast is a must-try! This beloved dish has been a fan favorite at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort since the 1970s, known for its crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated outside and warm, gooey banana filling. It's like a supercharged version of French toast, but with a tropical twist that makes you feel like you’re on vacation.

Making it at home is the perfect way to bring a little bit of Disney magic to your breakfast table, and trust me, once you try it, you'll see why it's been a hit for decades!

Tonga Toast can be purchased for breakfast from Kona Cafe or Capt. Cook's. The menu describes Tonga Toast this way:

Banana-stuffed French Toast rolled in Cinnamon Sugar and served with a Strawberry Compote and your choice of Ham, Spiced Ham, Bacon, or Sausage

Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? My brother-in-law happens to be from the island of Tonga and has never had anything like this before, but it is still a catchy name 😉

Tonga Toast Ingredients

*Ingredient amounts are located in the recipe card at the end of this post.

• Eggs: Eggs serve as a binding agent in the batter for the Fried French Toast, helping to create a crispy and golden exterior when fried. They also contribute to the overall richness and texture of the dish. Substitution: For an egg-free version, you can use a mixture of mashed bananas or applesauce as a binding agent.
• Milk or Cream: Milk or cream adds moisture and richness to the batter, resulting in a creamy texture and enhancing the flavor of the French toast. Substitution: You can use dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk for a vegan or lactose-free option.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor to the French toast, providing a delightful aroma and enhancing the overall taste of the dish. It complements the sweetness of the batter and adds a hint of spice. Substitution: You can use other spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor profile.
• Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness to the batter, balancing the flavors and caramelizing when the French toast is fried, creating a crispy and golden crust. Substitution: You can use alternative sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a healthier option.
• Loaf of Bread: A loaf of bread, preferably thick-sliced sourdough or brioche, serves as the base for the French toast. It absorbs the batter well and becomes soft and custardy when cooked, creating a satisfying texture. Substitution: You can use gluten-free bread or whole wheat bread for dietary preferences.
• Bananas: Bananas can be sliced and added as a topping to the Fried French Toast, providing natural sweetness, flavor, and texture. They complement the dish beautifully and add a refreshing element. Substitution: You can use other fruits like berries, peaches, or apples as toppings for variation.
• Oil for frying: Oil is used for frying the French toast, ensuring that it cooks evenly and develops a crispy exterior. It also adds richness to the dish and helps prevent sticking to the pan. Substitution: You can use butter or clarified butter (ghee) for frying if preferred, or opt for a non-stick cooking spray for a lighter option.

How to Make Disney’s Tonga Toast

[Step 1] French Toast Batter: Whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and 1 Tablespoon sugar. You can also use a blender or food processor which works great!

[Step 2] Cut the bread into three-inch-thick slices. Use a knife to cut a slit into the top of each piece of bread, but don’t cut all the way through. You are basically cutting out a little pocket in the bread.

[Step 3] Peel and cut the bananas in half. Then cut the banana slices in half again, length-wise. Stuff two pieces of banana into the bread pocket.

[Step 4] Heat the oil in a large pot over medium high heat until it reaches about 350 degrees. Dip the stuffed bread in the egg mixture, covering both sides. 

[Step 5] Use tongs to carefully place the bread in the hot oil. Fry the French Toast on each side for 3-4 minutes until it is golden brown. Remove the toast from the pan and allow it to drain excess oil on a paper towel.

[Step 6] Mix sugar and cinnamon in a medium bowl and coat both sides of the Tonga Toast. Serve with your favorite French Toast Toppings and a side of bacon!

Helpful Kitchen Tools

• Whisk
• Food Processor
• Large Skillet
• Candy Thermometer

Toppings for Tonga Toast

My kids like to have their Tonga Toast plain (because they say it tastes like a cronut) but it is also amazing topped with good old maple syrup. Here are some other toppings to try:

• Cream Cheese Syrup
• Strawberry Sauce or Raspberry Syrup
• Chocolate Ganache
• Whipped Cream
• Caramel Syrup

French Toast Filling Ideas

Traditional Tonga Toast from Walt Disney World is stuffed with sliced bananas, but feel free to stuff your French Toast with what ever you’d like! For another Polynesian twist on French toast, try this Tangaroa Toast recipe from the Disneyland Hotel!

I have one son who likes it plain, with no filling. Another likes his filled with Nutella and sliced strawberries. Another filling option is butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Just like a cinnamon roll. Use your imagination!

Final Thoughts

Disney's Tonga Toast is not just a breakfast dish; it's a journey to the heart of Disney magic. With its irresistible combination of flavors and its ability to transport you to the enchanting ambiance of Disney's Polynesian Resort, Tonga Toast is a culinary experience like no other. 

Other Disney Recipes You Might Like

• Disney World Cronuts
• Homemade Mickey Beignets
• PCH Grill Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana French Toast Casserole
• Classic Mickey Waffles
• The Grey Stuff Cupcakes
• Disneyland's Birria Grilled Cheese Sandwich

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