Oh friends, have I got a treat for you today! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is, hands down, one of the most delicious breakfast creations I’ve ever sunk my teeth into. We’re talking sweet, pillowy clouds of cinnamon-sugar bliss that practically melt in your mouth. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, this dish stands out with its unique use of soft Hawaiian rolls that soak up the custard beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful experience.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the French Toast
- For Serving
- How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
- Step 2: Soak the Rolls
- Step 3: Cook the Rolls
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Classic Toppings
- Creative Additions
- Savory Pairings
- How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- Can I prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
- What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- Can I use other types of bread?
- How do I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and quick prep time, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup to cater to different tastes.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a weekend treat, Hawaiian Roll French Toast fits right in.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids adore this sweet dish, making it an excellent choice for family breakfasts.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Toothpick or skewer
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet or griddle: Ensures even cooking and prevents the French toast from sticking.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for whisking the custard mixture without spillage.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a creamy custard.
- Spatula: Essential for flipping the rolls without breaking them.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 1 12 pack King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
For Serving
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit (optional)
- Maple syrup (optional)
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined. Then add in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Soak the Rolls
Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in. Working in batches, dip the rolls into the custard mixture. Allow them to soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Be cautious not to soak them too long to avoid sogginess.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls onto the skillet carefully. Cook for 30-60 seconds on each side until they are golden brown. Turn them gently with a spatula to ensure all sides are crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Hawaiian Roll French toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries or maple syrup as desired. Enjoy this delightful breakfast treat!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be as delightful as making it. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy this sweet breakfast treat.
Classic Toppings
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the dish.
- Maple Syrup: This classic pairing enhances the flavors with its rich, sweet notes.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a refreshing burst of flavor.
Creative Additions
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream brings a creamy texture that complements the toast perfectly.
- Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips on top for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Coconut Flakes: Add toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair that pairs well with Hawaiian rolls.
Savory Pairings
- Bacon or Sausage: The salty crunch of bacon or sausage balances the sweetness of the French toast beautifully.
- Yogurt: A side of yogurt provides creaminess and a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Perfecting your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can elevate your breakfast game. Follow these tips for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and dairy create a richer custard that soaks in better.
- Don’t Over-Soak: Keep soaking time to about 30 seconds to avoid soggy rolls.
- Control the Heat: Medium-low heat ensures even cooking and prevents burning while achieving a golden crust.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom for extra flavor depth in your custard mixture.
- Keep Them Warm: If making in batches, keep cooked rolls warm in a low oven until ready to serve.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Sausage Links: Juicy sausage adds heartiness and balances out the meal.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and color on your plate.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side option.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns introduce a savory element that contrasts nicely with sweet toast.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain bread brings a modern twist and health benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Using stale rolls: Freshness is key! Stale rolls won’t soak up the custard well. Be sure to use soft, fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls for the best texture.
- Over-soaking the rolls: Leaving the rolls in the custard too long can make them soggy. Soak each roll for just 30 seconds to ensure a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Skipping the butter: Butter adds flavor and prevents sticking. Make sure to use enough butter in your skillet or griddle for that golden-brown finish.
- Not preheating the skillet: A cold skillet will lead to uneven cooking. Preheat it before adding your soaked rolls for consistent browning.
- Serving without toppings: Toppings elevate this dish. Don’t forget powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or syrup to enhance your Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They remain good for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until hot, but avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a nonstick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a sweet breakfast dish made by soaking King’s Hawaiian Rolls in a custard mixture and then cooking them until golden brown.
Can I prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls a day in advance. Just cook them right before serving for the best results.
What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Popular toppings include powdered sugar, fresh fruit like berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup. These add delightful flavors!
Can I use other types of bread?
While King’s Hawaiian Rolls are best for this recipe, you can experiment with brioche or challah if you prefer different flavors.
How do I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
You can add spices like nutmeg or even chocolate chips to the custard mixture. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or spices based on your taste preferences. This recipe promises comfort and joy at breakfast or brunch—try it out and see how it becomes a family favorite!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the ultimate breakfast delight with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe! Soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls are transformed into fluffy, custard-soaked bites of heaven that melt in your mouth. With a delightful blend of vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar, this dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. It’s easy to make and can be served with a variety of toppings like powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup to cater to everyone’s taste. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just enjoying a weekend treat, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pack (12 rolls) King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and half and half until well combined. Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt; mix thoroughly.
- Poke several holes in the bottom of each roll using a toothpick or skewer. Dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds on each side until golden brown, flipping gently with a spatula.
- Serve warm topped with powdered sugar and fresh fruit or maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (70g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
