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 quick yet delightful dish to impress your family or friends, this recipe is just what you need. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings—anytime you crave something special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this dish is ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves French toast, and using Hawaiian rolls makes it an instant favorite.
• Flexible Serving Options: Serve it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup—whatever makes your heart happy!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the custard mixture ahead of time and soak the rolls when you’re ready to cook.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast. You probably have many of these in your kitchen already!

• 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

The best part about this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Zest: Mix in some orange or lemon zest to the custard for a citrusy twist.
• Go Nutty: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a decadent treat that kids will love.
• Fruit Medley: Top with a mix of your favorite fresh fruits like banana slices or strawberries.

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 step creates the rich base that will soak into those fluffy rolls. Then whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until everything is nicely incorporated. The combination of flavors will infuse each bite with sweetness and warmth.

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 while turning them to coat all sides. Be careful not to soak them too long; otherwise, they might turn 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 onto the skillet and cook for about 30-60 seconds per side until they’re golden brown. This step is crucial as it gives them that crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and gooey.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Every bite will be a little piece of paradise!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a breeze, and with a few extra tips, you can take it to the next level!

• Use day-old rolls: If you have some Hawaiian Rolls that are a day or two old, use them! Staler bread holds onto the custard better without falling apart.
• Customize with flavors: Feel free to add in your favorite spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture for an extra flavor kick that will surprise your taste buds.
• Let it rest: After dipping the rolls, let them sit for an additional minute before cooking. This allows the custard to soak in even deeper, resulting in a richer texture.
• Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan; cooking in batches ensures each piece gets the attention it deserves and cooks evenly, achieving that golden brown perfection.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix and match toppings! Fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a dollop of whipped coconut cream can transform your breakfast into something extraordinary.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

When it comes to serving this delightful dish, presentation is key! You can elevate your meal by carefully plating and adding some fun accompaniments.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
• Fresh mint leaves: These not only look beautiful but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the toast.

Side Dishes

• Crispy bacon alternatives: Consider turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with sweet French toast.
• Greek yogurt with honey: A side of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey adds a protein boost and balances the sweetness of the toast perfectly.
• Fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and brightness to your plate while complementing the rich flavors of the French toast.
• Smoothie bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl made with bananas, spinach, and almond milk can be a nutritious counterpoint to this indulgent breakfast.

There you have it, friends! With these tips and serving ideas, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will not only taste divine but also look absolutely stunning on your breakfast table. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just a delightful breakfast treat; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, making your mornings smoother and more enjoyable.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Ensure the French toast is fully cooled before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, pop it in the microwave on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this scrumptious recipe!

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with a mixture of mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce combined with a little plant-based milk to create a custard-like consistency.

How do I serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You can serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm with powdered sugar, fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas, and drizzle maple syrup over the top for an extra sweet touch.

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls offer a unique sweetness, you can use brioche or challah as delightful alternatives if you prefer.

How do I store leftovers of Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Simply let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hawaiian Roll French Toast as much as I do! It’s truly a special treat that brings warmth and happiness to any breakfast table. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or friends, it’s bound to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—I promise it will brighten your day!