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, special occasions, or just a delightful breakfast at home, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of total time required, you can whip up this delightful dish with minimal effort.
• Irresistibly Flavorful: The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a rich flavor that enhances the sweet rolls beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive brunch or a weekend treat, this recipe fits any setting perfectly.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 12 servings per recipe, it’s ideal for family gatherings or entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, gather these essential tools. Having everything on hand makes 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 even cooking and easy flipping without sticking.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to whisk ingredients together without spills.
• Whisk: Helps blend the custard mixture smoothly for an even texture.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the rolls gently to achieve that perfect golden brown crust.

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Ingredients

To make this delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast, gather the following ingredients:

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

For Cooking and Serving

• 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

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined.
2. Whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until well incorporated.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

1. Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in.
2. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture and let soak for about 30 seconds. Turn them to coat all sides evenly. Be careful not to soak them too long to avoid sogginess.

Step 3: Cook the Rolls

1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Cook the soaked rolls for approximately 30–60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them carefully to ensure all sides become crispy.

Step 4: Serve Your Creation

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Enjoy this delightful dish with friends and family!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. You can elevate your breakfast or brunch with some creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

Fresh Berries

• Top your French toast with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness. The acidity from the berries beautifully complements the sweetness of the rolls.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture. Consider adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to the cream for an extra flavor boost.

Maple Syrup

• Drizzle pure maple syrup over the warm French toast for that classic sweet touch. The syrup enhances the overall experience with its rich flavor.

Coconut Flakes

• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with the Hawaiian rolls. It adds crunch and an additional layer of flavor.

Nut Butter

• Spread almond butter or peanut butter on your French toast for added richness and protein. This option makes it more filling and nutritious.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To achieve the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use fresh rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls will yield better texture and taste compared to stale ones. They soak up the custard mixture beautifully.

• Don’t over-soak: Limit soaking time to 30 seconds per roll to avoid sogginess. This ensures they cook up crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.

• Temperature control: Cook on medium-low heat to ensure even cooking without burning. Adjust heat as necessary while cooking multiple batches.

• Customize toppings: Experiment with various toppings like nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit compote to personalize each serving and cater to different tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds a nutritious green element that balances out the sweetness of the French toast.

2. Crispy Hash Browns: Golden-brown hash browns offer a crunchy contrast in texture and are always a breakfast favorite.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits provides a healthy complement and brightens up your plate.

4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side dish that adds protein and texture to your meal.

5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with granola, seeds, and fruits makes for a vibrant addition alongside your main dish.

6. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and round out your breakfast spread nicely while keeping it simple.

7. Chia Pudding: A light chia pudding offers a nutritious side option that can be flavored with vanilla or cocoa for variety.

8. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread gives a trendy twist that works well with sweet flavors of the French toast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Over-soaking the rolls: If you soak the rolls for too long, they can become soggy rather than fluffy. Aim for a quick dip of about 30 seconds on each side.
• Not using enough custard mixture: Ensure you have enough custard to soak the rolls adequately. If the mixture is too small, the rolls won’t absorb the flavors.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: Cooking on medium-low heat allows for an even golden brown without burning. High heat can lead to uneven cooking and burnt outsides.
• Skipping the spices: Vanilla and cinnamon add depth to the flavor. Don’t skip these ingredients; they are essential for a delicious taste.
• Neglecting proper butter usage: Use enough butter in your skillet to prevent sticking and achieve that beautiful golden crust. Don’t skimp!
• Forgetting toppings: Serve with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or syrup for added flavor. Toppings make your dish visually appealing and enhance the taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Place completely cooled French toast in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place French toast on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a piece of French toast on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Can I use other types of bread for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls provide sweetness, you can experiment with brioche or challah if desired.

How do I make vegan Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You can replace eggs with plant-based alternatives like flaxseed meal or aquafaba and use almond milk instead of half and half.

What toppings pair well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even shredded coconut make delightful toppings!

Can I prep Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls in advance; just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How do I make my Hawaiian Roll French Toast extra fluffy?

Be sure not to over-soak your rolls. Quick dips allow them to remain fluffy while absorbing flavor.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is an irresistible breakfast treat that’s perfect for any day of the week. Its sweet and soft texture makes it a crowd favorite, while its versatility allows you to customize toppings and flavors. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying it as a sweet breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table!