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. Perfect for brunch with family or a cozy breakfast at home, this dish combines the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with the comforting flavors of French toast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Deliciously Sweet: The soft texture of Hawaiian rolls soaked in a rich custard creates a delightful flavor explosion.
- Versatile Toppings: Serve it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup to customize your breakfast experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a simple weekend breakfast, this dish fits right in.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s great for sharing with family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.
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 rolls from sticking.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to whisk ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Whisk: Helps combine the custard ingredients smoothly for an even soak.
- Spatula: Allows you to turn the French toast carefully without breaking it apart.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to whip up this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
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, maple syrup for serving)
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 whisk in the vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until 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 and let soak for 30 seconds per side. Be careful not to soak them too long; otherwise, they’ll get soggy.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook the soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown. Turn them carefully with a spatula to ensure all sides are crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust it with powdered sugar and top it with fresh berries or maple syrup as desired. Enjoy this sweet breakfast treat with friends and family!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you want a classic presentation or something more adventurous, there are plenty of ways to elevate this dish for breakfast or brunch.
Classic Toppings
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and visual appeal.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm syrup over the rolls for a comforting touch.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a refreshing contrast.
Creative Additions
- Whipped Cream: Top with homemade or store-bought whipped cream for a decadent twist.
- Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for added richness and protein.
- Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle on some chocolate chips before serving for a sweet surprise.
Fruit Compote
- Berry Compote: A warm berry compote brings a fruity burst of flavor and color.
- Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas for extra sweetness and texture.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast truly unforgettable, here are some essential tips. These ideas will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Use Day-Old Rolls: Stale rolls absorb the custard better without falling apart.
- Adjust Soaking Time: Soak the rolls just long enough—30 seconds is ideal—to prevent sogginess.
- Control Heat: Keep the skillet on medium-low heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Experiment with Spices: Enhance flavor by adding nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this sweet dish perfectly.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon balances the sweetness of the toast. Cook until crispy and serve alongside.
- Sausage Links: Juicy sausage links provide savory notes that work well with the sweet bread.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and lightness to round out your meal.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness to your breakfast plate.
- Oven-Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned potatoes bring an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with French toast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Over-soaking the rolls: If you let the rolls sit in the custard too long, they can become soggy. Aim for 30 seconds per side for the perfect texture.
- Not whisking enough: Failing to fully combine the egg mixture can leave clumps of cinnamon or sugar. Make sure to whisk until everything is smooth.
- Using a high heat setting: Cooking on high heat may burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Stick to medium-low for even cooking.
- Skipping the butter: Not using enough butter can prevent that beautiful golden crust from forming. Always melt butter generously in your skillet.
- Ignoring serving suggestions: While delicious on their own, toppings like fresh fruit and maple syrup elevate this dish. Don’t miss out on these delightful additions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure the rolls have cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Label with the date so you can track freshness.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking for warmth.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid, warming for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Here are some frequently asked questions that might help!
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and fluffy, you can substitute with brioche or challah for similar results.
How do I make vegan Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
To make a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk or another plant-based milk in place of half and half.
What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Popular options include fresh berries, maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls beforehand. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just a treat but a versatile dish perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Its sweet flavor combined with various topping options makes it delightful for everyone. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or fruits!
Breakfast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Indulge in the delectable delight of Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a heavenly breakfast treat that transforms sweet, fluffy King’s Hawaiian rolls into a mouthwatering dish. With each bite, experience the comforting richness of a custard blend infused with cinnamon and vanilla, creating an irresistible flavor profile that melts in your mouth. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches with family and friends. In just 15 minutes, you can create a stunning breakfast centerpiece that allows for endless customization with toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a weekend treat, this crowd-pleasing dish will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and half-and-half until combined. Stir in vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt.
- Poke holes in the bottom of each roll with a toothpick. Dip rolls into the custard mixture for 30 seconds per side.
- Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar and your choice of toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
