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 something special to whip up on a busy weekend or a delightful dish to impress family and friends, this recipe is perfect. It’s quick to make, and each bite feels like a warm hug!

Imagine serving this at brunch or enjoying it as a cozy breakfast with loved ones. The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, eagerly awaiting their share of this delightful treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in under 15 minutes!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves French toast! This sweet version will surely please kids and adults alike.
• Flexible serving options: Top it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup—you can customize it to suit your taste.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a regular Sunday breakfast, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast fits the bill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. With such tasty components, making this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is as enjoyable as eating it!

• 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, and maple syrup for serving

Variations

One of the best things about Hawaiian Roll French Toast is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to match your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add some zest: Try adding lemon or orange zest to the custard mixture for a refreshing citrus twist.
• Go nutty: Sprinkle in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Make it chocolatey: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Switch up the milk: For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or oat milk instead of half and half.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined. This step is crucial because it creates the custard base that will soak into those fluffy rolls. Then, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until everything is nicely incorporated. The blend of flavors in this mixture is what makes each bite so comforting!

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Using a toothpick or skewer, poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so that the custard can soak in properly. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds on each side—just enough time to absorb that delicious liquid without becoming soggy.

Step 3: Cook Until Golden Brown

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls onto the skillet and cook them for about 30–60 seconds per side until they turn golden brown. Be sure to turn them carefully with a spatula so all sides get crispy and golden—this texture is what makes them so irresistible!

Step 4: Serve Warm

Once cooked, serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust them with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. The combination of sweetness from the toppings with the rich custard-soaked bread will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Enjoy every delicious bite of this lovely breakfast treat—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips that will elevate your breakfast game!

• Use day-old rolls: Slightly stale Hawaiian rolls absorb the custard mixture better without getting overly soggy, providing a perfect texture.
• Don’t rush the soaking: Allowing the rolls to soak for just enough time (30 seconds) helps them absorb the custard while maintaining their structure, resulting in a delightful bite.
• Control your heat: Cooking on medium-low heat ensures the rolls get golden brown without burning. It allows for even cooking throughout, giving you a crispy exterior and soft interior.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to customize the custard mixture by adding nutmeg or almond extract for a twist on traditional flavors. This personal touch can make your French toast even more special.
• Make it a crowd-pleaser: If you’re serving a group, double the recipe! This dish is so delicious that no one will want to miss out on these sweet, fluffy bites.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Presenting your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can transform this dish into an irresistible feast.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also creates an eye-catching contrast against the golden-brown rolls.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your plate and complements the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi adds a refreshing contrast to the rich French toast and provides additional nutrients.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and berries for a delicious side that adds creaminess and crunch while balancing the sweetness of the toast.
• Crispy bacon alternatives: Consider turkey bacon or coconut bacon for a savory side that pairs well with sweet dishes; it gives you that satisfying crunch without pork!
• Smoothie bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds makes for a nutritious complement that’s packed with vitamins and is absolutely delicious.

Now that you have all these fabulous tips and serving ideas at your disposal, get ready to impress everyone at your next brunch gathering with this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making your mornings that much easier and sweeter.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the French toast to cool completely.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked French toast cool thoroughly.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen French toast in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, reheat in a microwave for about 30 seconds, checking for warmth.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

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

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls provide a unique sweetness, you can substitute with brioche or challah for similar results. Just make sure to adjust soaking times based on the bread’s density.

How do I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

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

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and bananas. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar adds that extra touch of sweetness!

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for brunch gatherings?

Definitely! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also impressively delicious, making it a perfect addition to any brunch spread.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast as much as I do! It’s such a special treat that brings joy and warmth to any breakfast table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings and make it your own. Happy cooking!