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 dish that’s perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or special family gatherings, this is it. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to impress your loved ones.

What makes this recipe even more delightful is how quick it comes together. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a stunning and tasty breakfast ready in no time. Trust me; once you try this Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Quick prep and cook time means you can whip this up without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet flavors and soft texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a holiday breakfast, it fits right in.
• Customizable Options: Easily adapt with your favorite toppings or mix-ins to suit everyone’s taste.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of soft rolls soaked in rich custard is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients that make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast so special. Each component comes together to create that perfect blend of sweetness and flavor.

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 Hawaiian Roll French Toast is super flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun variation ideas:

• Add Some Zest: Mix in some orange or lemon zest into the custard for a bright citrus flavor.
• Nutty Delight: Top with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Include chocolate chips in the rolls before soaking them in custard for extra decadence.
• Fruit Infusion: Add slices of banana or peaches directly into the custard mixture before dipping the rolls.

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 forms the base of our custard. Whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until everything is well incorporated. Mixing these ingredients creates a rich flavor that will soak into our rolls beautifully.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so they can soak up all that delicious custard mixture. Working in batches, dip each roll into the mixture for about 30 seconds on each side, ensuring they are coated but not soggy. This step is essential as it allows the rolls to absorb all that creamy goodness!

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 on the skillet and cook each side for 30-60 seconds until golden brown. This step gives you those perfectly crispy edges while keeping the inside soft and fluffy—trust me; you want that texture contrast!

Step 4: Serve Warm

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm right off the skillet! Dust them lightly with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. This final touch elevates your dish from good to absolutely amazing—your family will be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

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

• Choose the right rolls: Opt for fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls for that signature sweetness and fluffy texture. Stale rolls can absorb custard but won’t provide the same delicious flavor.
• Don’t over-soak: Dip the rolls in the custard mixture for no more than 30 seconds. This prevents sogginess and ensures a delightful crispy exterior once cooked.
• Control your heat: Cook on medium-low heat to allow the inside to cook through without burning the outside. Patience is key to achieving that golden brown perfection!
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or a splash of almond extract to your custard for an extra flavor kick. It’s a simple way to make this dish uniquely yours.
• Cook in batches: If you’re making this for a crowd, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches will ensure each roll gets the attention it deserves, leading to evenly cooked, scrumptious results.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Presentation is everything when it comes to serving this delightful breakfast treat! Here are some ideas to make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and makes your dish look irresistibly inviting.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only adds color but also a refreshing hint that complements the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Bacon alternatives: Try turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a savory contrast that balances out the sweetness of the French toast.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with fresh fruits and granola for a creamy, crunchy side that adds nutrition and flavor diversity.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and create a hearty breakfast experience alongside your sweet rolls.
• Smoothies: A refreshing fruit smoothie can brighten up your meal with vibrant flavors and colors, making it an excellent complement to your French toast.

Now you’re ready to whip up this dreamy Hawaiian Roll French Toast! Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy weekend or serving it at a brunch gathering, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast without the morning rush. Here’s how to store and preserve its delightful flavors.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cut the French toast into individual portions before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat oven at 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated French toast on a baking sheet.
• Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious dish!

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and simply cook it in the morning. Just soak the rolls in the custard mixture, then cover and refrigerate them overnight.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

This recipe pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup. You can also sprinkle some nuts or seeds for an added crunch!

Can I substitute ingredients in Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free option, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of half and half. You can also use non-dairy butter for cooking if desired.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Hawaiian Roll French Toast brings joy and sweetness to your mornings! It’s such a special recipe that combines comfort with a touch of tropical flair. Enjoy making this delightful dish and share it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!