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 gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this recipe stands out with its unique combination of flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, whipping up this delightful dish is a breeze.
- Incredible Flavor: The sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls paired with cinnamon and vanilla creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy weekend breakfast or a special holiday brunch, this dish fits right in.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your French toast with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream to suit your mood.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves 12, making it ideal for family gatherings or brunch parties.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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 that the French toast cooks evenly without sticking, making flipping easy.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to whisk the custard mixture without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps combine all ingredients smoothly for a rich custard.
- Spatula: Perfect for gently flipping the rolls without breaking them.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
For the Custard Mixture
- 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
For Cooking and Serving
- 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh fruit (optional)
- 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 add in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Soak the Rolls
Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so that the custard can soak in. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds. Turn them to coat all sides but be careful not to soak them too long as they might become soggy.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls in the skillet and cook for about 30-60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to carefully turn them to get all sides crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm! Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Enjoy this sweet breakfast treat with friends and family!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes! Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.
Classic Toppings
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and a beautiful finish.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a fresh and tart contrast.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle over the top for that classic sweet touch.
Creative Pairings
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop for richness and a lovely creaminess.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut on top for an extra tropical flair.
- Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for added protein and flavor.
Savory Additions
- Bacon or Sausage: The salty contrast of crispy bacon or sausage pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the French toast.
- Yogurt: Serve alongside Greek yogurt for a tangy kick and added creaminess.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To ensure you achieve the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Day-Old Rolls: Stale rolls absorb more custard without falling apart.
- Don’t Over-Soak: Keep soaking time short to avoid soggy rolls; 30 seconds is plenty.
- Cook on Low Heat: This allows the inside to cook fully while achieving a golden-brown exterior.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding nutmeg or orange zest to the custard mixture for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
While Hawaiian Roll French Toast is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes enhances the meal. Here are some great options:
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon balances the sweetness perfectly. Cook until crispy.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and color. Toss together sliced fruits like melons, berries, and grapes.
- Sausage Links: Juicy sausage links add heartiness to your plate. Grill or pan-fry until golden brown.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side. It adds creaminess and texture.
- Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits with yogurt; serve in a bowl topped with nuts and seeds.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft French toast. Cook until golden brown.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Over-soaking the rolls: If you soak the rolls for too long, they will become soggy. Keep your soaking time to about 30 seconds to ensure a perfect texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can lead to uneven cooking. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth custard.
- Not preheating the skillet: A cold skillet can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your skillet is heated before adding the soaked rolls.
- Skipping the salt: Salt enhances flavor and balances sweetness. Don’t skip it; just add a pinch for the best taste.
- Ignoring cooking time: Cooking for too long can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat each piece for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, while Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can substitute with challah or brioche for similar results.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls that suit your preference.
What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
You can top it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, nuts, or even chocolate chips for a delightful twist!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only incredibly delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or flavors to suit your taste. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a delightful brunch treat, give this recipe a try and enjoy its sweet comfort!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the heavenly delight of Hawaiian Roll French Toast—a breakfast masterpiece that transforms soft, sweet rolls into a warm, cinnamon-sugar treat. Perfect for brunch gatherings or quiet family mornings, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this comforting dish effortlessly. Serve it with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or maple syrup to elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy weekend at home, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is sure to become a new breakfast staple.
Ingredients
- 1 pack (12) 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
- Butter (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and half and half until combined. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt; mix well.
- Poke holes in the bottom of each roll using a toothpick. Dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls for about 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with toppings like powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
