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 quick and delightful to whip up on a busy morning or a special weekend brunch, this recipe is your answer. It’s perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy day at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of total prep and cook time, you can enjoy this delightful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet flavor of Hawaiian rolls combined with creamy custard.
• Make Ahead Option: You can soak the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook, making mornings a breeze!
• Customizable Toppings: From fresh fruit to maple syrup, you can dress up your French toast however you like.
• Impressive Yet Simple: This dish looks beautiful on the plate but requires minimal effort—perfect for impressing guests!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

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 your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in sliced bananas or chopped apples into the custard mixture for extra flavor.
• Spice It Up: Include nutmeg or pumpkin spice along with cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
• Go Nutty: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute half and half with almond milk or coconut milk to suit dietary preferences.

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. Whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until everything is nicely incorporated. This mixture is what gives our rolls that creamy texture and rich flavor.

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 each roll into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 30 seconds. Make sure to turn them to coat all sides evenly. Be careful not to let them soak too long—just enough to absorb that deliciousness without becoming soggy!

Step 3: Cook the Rolls

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Once melted, carefully place the soaked rolls onto the skillet. Cook each roll for 30-60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them gently so all sides get nice and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your warm Hawaiian Roll French Toast dusted with powdered sugar. Top it off with fresh berries and drizzle some maple syrup if desired. Enjoy every melt-in-your-mouth bite with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about technique and a little bit of love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your breakfast turns out heavenly.

• Choose fresh rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls will absorb the custard better, giving you that delicious, fluffy texture. Stale rolls can lead to a less satisfying experience.

• Don’t rush the soaking: Allowing each roll to soak in the custard mixture for about 30 seconds ensures maximum flavor and moisture. Just be careful not to over-soak, or they’ll turn too soggy!

• Use medium-low heat: Cooking on medium-low heat gives you time to get that beautiful golden-brown crust without burning the outside. Patience pays off with this recipe!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon. It adds an extra layer of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before you’re ready to use it!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Serving your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is where you can truly let your creativity shine! Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, here are some ideas to elevate your dish.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and makes for a beautiful presentation.
• Fresh berries: Adding strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries offers a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the soft rolls.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A side of creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and balances out the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
• Crispy bacon alternatives: Try turkey bacon or veggie bacon for those looking for something savory alongside their sweet breakfast.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits is refreshing and adds color to your plate.
• Smoothie: Blend up a quick smoothie using banana, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with this decadent dish.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful breakfast treat! Your family and friends will be coming back for seconds (or thirds), so get ready for some compliments!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast any day of the week without the fuss. You can prepare it in advance and store it, making mornings a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked French toast to cool completely.
• Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• If desired, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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 best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, place in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking every 30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Roll French Toast:

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

What goes well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like berries or bananas, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

While Hawaiian rolls are ideal due to their sweetness and texture, you can experiment with brioche or challah as delicious alternatives.

How do I know when my Hawaiian Roll French Toast is done cooking?

Look for a beautiful golden brown color on each side. The texture should be crispy outside while remaining soft and fluffy inside.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Hawaiian Roll French Toast a try! It’s an easy yet indulgent treat that brings warmth to your breakfast table. Whether it’s a cozy family brunch or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!