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 with friends or a cozy family breakfast, this dish will impress everyone at the table. What makes it stand out is the use of soft Hawaiian rolls that soak up the custard beautifully, resulting in a rich and flavorful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll whip this dish up in no time.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of cinnamon and brown sugar creates a warm, inviting flavor that everyone loves.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup for a customizable meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to please.
• Impressive Appearance: The golden-brown color and dusting of powdered sugar make it look as good as it tastes!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for an easy cooking experience. Having the right equipment will make this process smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick skillet or griddle
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Toothpick or skewer
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick skillet or griddle: Ensures even cooking and prevents the French toast from sticking while providing a crispy exterior.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to whisk together your custard mixture easily.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly for a well-blended custard.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you will need:

• 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, 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. Whisk in the vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until incorporated.

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 the rolls into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides. Be careful not to soak them too long; otherwise, they’ll get soggy.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook the soaked rolls for about 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown. Turn them carefully with a spatula to ensure all sides are 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 every bite!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.

Classic Toppings

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a sweet touch without overpowering the flavors.
• Maple Syrup: This classic syrup enhances the sweetness and complements the cinnamon perfectly.

Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries bring a burst of freshness and color to your plate.
• Banana Slices: Adding bananas creates a creamy texture and natural sweetness.

Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream makes this dish feel indulgent and special.

Nut Butter

• Almond or Peanut Butter: Spreading nut butter adds protein and a rich flavor contrast to the sweet toast.

Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve your French toast with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for dessert.

Coconut Flakes

• Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling toasted coconut adds an extra layer of flavor and a tropical twist.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Perfecting Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Rolls: Freshly purchased Hawaiian rolls will absorb custard better and yield a fluffier texture.
• Don’t Over-soak: Dip rolls in custard briefly to avoid sogginess; about 30 seconds should suffice.
• Control Heat: Cook on medium-low heat to ensure even cooking without burning the outside.
• Rest After Cooking: Allow the cooked rolls to rest for a minute before serving for better flavor development.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom for an exciting twist on traditional flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon balances the sweetness of the toast beautifully.
2. Sausage Links: Flavorful sausage adds heartiness and pairs well with syrup-drenched French toast.
3. Hash Browns: Golden-brown hash browns provide a satisfying crispy texture alongside the soft rolls.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit offers a refreshing contrast to the warm toast.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the richness of the French toast.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds makes for a nutritious side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Over-soaking the rolls: If you let the rolls soak too long, they will become soggy and lose their wonderful texture. Aim for 30 seconds max.
• Not using enough butter: Insufficient butter can lead to uneven cooking and sticking. Always ensure your skillet is well-greased for perfect browning.
• Skipping the holes in the rolls: Not poking holes prevents the custard from soaking in properly. Use a toothpick to poke several holes in each roll.
• Cooking at too high heat: High heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Keep the heat medium-low for even cooking.
• Neglecting toppings: Serving without toppings can miss out on flavor. Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh fruit or syrup for extra yum!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal taste.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds per piece. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast special?

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is special because it uses sweet, fluffy rolls that add unique flavor and texture compared to regular bread.

Can I use other types of bread?

While this recipe shines with Hawaiian rolls, you can experiment with brioche or challah, but adjust soaking time accordingly.

How do I customize Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You can customize it by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even swapping spices like nutmeg instead of cinnamon.

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat as needed, making it a perfect option for busy mornings.

How do I know when it’s done cooking?

The rolls should be golden brown on all sides and slightly firm when pressed. Avoid cooking them too long, as they may dry out.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only a delightful treat but also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with different toppings or mix-ins. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this recipe promises to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the fluffy sweetness!