Hawaiian Roll French Toast

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. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish for brunch or even just a cozy weekday breakfast, this recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for family gatherings or lazy Sunday mornings when you want to indulge a little!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful breakfast ready in under 15 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves French toast, and using Hawaiian rolls makes it extra special and fun for kids.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the custard mixture the night before and soak the rolls in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
• Deliciously Sweet Flavor: The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a taste that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable breakfast experience. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this Hawaiian Roll 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
• Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in sliced bananas or berries to the custard mixture for an extra fruity twist.
• Nutty Goodness: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch.
• Go Tropical: Top with coconut flakes and serve with grilled pineapple for a true Hawaiian flair.
• Flavor Boost: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom in the custard for unique flavor profiles.

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. This step is crucial because it creates the rich custard base that will soak into those delicious rolls. Next, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until everything is perfectly incorporated.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Using a toothpick or skewer, poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 30 seconds. Be sure to turn them to coat all sides! Don’t let them soak too long; otherwise they might get soggy.

Step 3: Cook the Rolls

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the soaked rolls into the pan and cook them for 30-60 seconds per side until they turn golden brown. This step is important because it gives the rolls that crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.

Step 4: Serve with Love

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm! Dust them with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Enjoying this sweet treat with loved ones is what makes it truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your breakfast game!

• Choose Fresh Rolls: Using fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls will ensure your French toast turns out soft and fluffy. Stale rolls can absorb the custard too quickly, leading to a less-than-ideal texture.

• Don’t Over-soak: Dip the rolls in the custard mixture for just 30 seconds. This keeps them from becoming overly soggy while ensuring they soak up enough flavor to be deliciously sweet.

• Control Your Heat: Cooking on medium-low heat allows for even browning without burning the outside. This way, you’ll achieve a perfectly crispy exterior and a soft, custardy interior.

• Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding nutmeg or almond extract to the custard mixture for a delightful twist. These small changes can add layers of flavor that make your dish unique!

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you’ll have everything ready to go when you want to whip up this scrumptious breakfast.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is just as fun as making it! With a few creative touches, you can turn this delightful dish into a showstopper for any breakfast or brunch gathering.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and an elegant touch to your plate.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
• Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup brings everything together with its rich flavor—truly a must-have topping!

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A creamy bowl of Greek yogurt is perfect for adding protein and tanginess. You can even mix in some honey or fruit for extra flavor!
• Crispy Bacon Alternatives: Try turkey bacon or veggie bacon as a savory side. The crunch and saltiness balance out the sweetness of the French toast beautifully.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits makes for a light and healthy side that pairs wonderfully with rich dishes like this one.
• Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy breakfast potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty addition that rounds out the meal beautifully.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy this scrumptious Hawaiian Roll French Toast together! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just delicious; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, so you have a delightful breakfast ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked French toast to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the cooked French toast.
• Lay pieces flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 30 seconds, but be cautious as this may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use different types of rolls for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls provide a unique sweetness, you can use any soft bread like challah or brioche if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep an eye on soaking time to avoid overly soggy bread.

How long does Hawaiian Roll French Toast last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will last about 3-4 days. If frozen, it can stay good for up to 2 months.

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with a mixture of mashed bananas or applesauce combined with plant-based milk. This will give your French toast a delightful sweetness and help bind the ingredients together.

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

The options are endless! Fresh berries, sliced bananas, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even a sprinkle of nuts all complement this dish beautifully.

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for brunch gatherings?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for brunch gatherings as it’s easy to prepare in larger batches and is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavor and charming presentation.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to dive into this Hawaiian Roll French Toast as I am! It’s such a special treat that brings warmth and joy to any breakfast table. Enjoy making this delightful dish and share it with your loved ones; I promise they’ll appreciate every sweet bite. Happy cooking!