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. If you’re looking for a sweet and delightful way to start your day or impress your loved ones during brunch, this recipe is it! The combination of soft Hawaiian rolls and a rich custard makes for a breakfast that feels extra special while being incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike love the sweet flavors and fluffy texture. It’s a surefire hit at any breakfast table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the custard mixture the night before. In the morning, just soak the rolls and cook them up in no time!
• Customizable Options: You can easily add your favorite toppings or variations to make this dish your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a regular Sunday morning, this French toast fits right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delightful breakfast!

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 (like berries)
• Maple syrup

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add Extra Flavor: Incorporate some nutmeg or orange zest into the custard for a twist on traditional flavors.
• Fruit-Infused Delight: Layer sliced bananas or strawberries between the rolls before soaking them for added sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch: Top your French toast with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Chocolate Twist: Drizzle some melted dairy-free chocolate on top before serving for a decadent treat.

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. It’s important to blend these well so that every bite has that creamy richness. Then, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until everything is nicely incorporated.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll. This step ensures that the custard can soak into every delicious corner. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds per side—just long enough to soak without getting soggy!

Step 3: Cook Until Golden Brown

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Carefully place the soaked rolls in the skillet and cook them for about 30-60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Turning them gently with a spatula helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm straight from the skillet! Dust with powdered sugar and feel free to top it with fresh berries and maple syrup as desired. Enjoy every sweet bite as you share this delightful dish with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you can elevate your breakfast game even further!

• Use stale rolls: If you have leftover Hawaiian rolls, let them sit out for a day or two to dry out slightly. Stale bread soaks up the custard better without falling apart.

• Don’t skip the soaking time: Allowing the rolls to soak for just the right amount of time (30 seconds) ensures they absorb enough custard for flavor without becoming mushy.

• Control the heat: Cooking on medium-low heat gives you that perfect golden brown exterior while ensuring the inside gets cooked through. Patience is key!

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to customize your custard mixture by adding a splash of almond extract or nutmeg for an extra flavor kick. It’s all about making it your own!

• Make it ahead: Prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls in advance. You can store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, making breakfast prep a breeze!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Presentation can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your delicious creation! Here are some fun ideas for serving up your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and makes the dish look extra special.
• Fresh berries: Add a mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to bring vibrant color and freshness.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a decadent twist, top with whipped coconut cream instead of traditional whipped cream for added sweetness and richness.

Side Dishes

• Bacon alternatives: Consider turkey bacon or veggie bacon as a savory side that complements the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a refreshing contrast to the rich French toast.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits not only adds brightness but also balances out the meal nicely.
• Smoothies: Whip up a quick smoothie using bananas, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious drink that pairs beautifully with your breakfast spread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will be an absolute hit at any brunch gathering! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only a delightful breakfast but also a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring that busy mornings are a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, separate layers of French toast with parchment paper.

Freezing

• Wrap individual pieces of French toast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• You can also microwave for about 30-45 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

I know you might have some questions about this delicious dish, so let’s dive right into it!

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator overnight and cook them fresh in the morning!

What makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast different from regular French toast?

Hawaiian Roll French Toast uses sweet, soft rolls that add a delightful flavor and texture compared to traditional bread. This gives it a unique tropical twist that’s simply irresistible!

Can I use dairy-free alternatives for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Yes! You can substitute the half and half or whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk option. Just ensure to choose one that complements the sweetness!

How do I serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Serve warm with powdered sugar dusting on top, fresh berries, and maple syrup for that perfect finishing touch. It’s great as is or with your favorite toppings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up this Hawaiian Roll French Toast! It’s truly special because it combines ease of preparation with incredible flavor. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast treat during the week, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family—happy cooking!