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 brunches, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy family breakfast, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. The unique blend of flavors from the Hawaiian rolls brings a delightful twist to the classic French toast recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious breakfast in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain or add toppings like fresh fruit and maple syrup for an extra special touch.
• Family Friendly: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
• Easy Cleanup: Using just one bowl and a skillet means fewer dishes to wash after enjoying this delightful meal!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe, let’s gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and 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: This ensures even cooking without sticking, making it easier to flip the rolls.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the custard ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine the eggs and liquid quickly for a smooth custard blend.

Ingredients

For the Custard Mixture

• 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

• 1 12 pack King’s Hawaiian Rolls
• 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)

For Serving

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh fruit (optional)
• Maple syrup (optional)

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, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until everything is incorporated well.

Step 2: Prep the Rolls

Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so that they can soak up all that delicious custard mixture.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls

Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds each while turning to coat all sides evenly. Be careful not to soak them too long; otherwise, they may become soggy.

Step 4: Cook the Rolls

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls in the skillet and cook for 30-60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them gently to ensure they get crispy all around.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once cooked, serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and feel free to top with fresh berries or maple syrup for an extra layer of flavor!

Enjoy your delightful breakfast creation!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is an opportunity to get creative and make breakfast extra special. Here are some delightful ways to elevate this dish and impress your family or guests.

Top with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of color and freshness. Just slice the strawberries and sprinkle the berries on top for a fruity touch.

Drizzle with Maple Syrup

• A classic topping, maple syrup adds sweetness that complements the cinnamon flavor. Warm it slightly for an even more indulgent experience.

Dust with Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar can enhance the presentation and add a hint of sweetness. Use a fine-mesh sieve for an even distribution.

Add Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream can take your French toast to the next level. Consider using homemade whipped cream for a fresh taste.

Serve with Greek Yogurt

• For a healthier option, serve alongside Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess and a tangy contrast to the sweet rolls.

Pair with Bacon or Sausage

• A side of crispy bacon or savory sausage links balances out the sweetness of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast, making it a satisfying meal.

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How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Stale Rolls: Slightly stale rolls absorb custard better without falling apart.
• Watch the Soaking Time: Soak the rolls just long enough to absorb the custard but not so long that they become soggy.
• Preheat Your Skillet: Make sure your skillet is at medium-low heat before adding the butter. This ensures even cooking.
• Flip Gently: Use a spatula to flip the rolls carefully, maintaining their shape for perfect golden edges.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to try other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for unique flavors.
• Serve Immediately: For best results, serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast right after cooking while it’s warm and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your breakfast spread. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with sweet French toast.
2. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links provide hearty protein, making your meal more filling.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances flavor and adds color to your plate.
4. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a satisfying texture that complements soft French toast.
5. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add richness and balance out the sweetness of the toast.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl can introduce different flavors and healthy ingredients alongside breakfast.
7. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit can offer a delightful contrast in textures.
8. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread introduces healthy fats and a savory element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Over-soaking the rolls: If you let the rolls soak too long in the custard, they will become soggy. Aim for about 30 seconds per side for perfect texture.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can affect how well the custard mixes and soaks into the rolls. Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
• Not using enough butter: Insufficient butter can lead to uneven cooking or sticking. Make sure to use enough butter to coat your cooking surface well.
• Cooking on high heat: Cooking the rolls on high heat can result in burnt outsides and uncooked insides. Stick to medium-low heat for even cooking.
• Skipping toppings: Hawaiian Roll French Toast is delicious on its own, but don’t forget toppings! Fresh fruit, syrup, or powdered sugar elevate this dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• You can freeze this dish by placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It lasts up to 2 months in the freezer; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a little butter until warmed through, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a sweet breakfast dish made from King’s Hawaiian Rolls soaked in a custard mixture and cooked until golden brown. It’s soft, delicious, and perfect for brunch!

How do I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of half-and-half. Replace butter with coconut oil for cooking.

Can I prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls ahead of time. Just store them covered in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

What are some topping ideas for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You can top it with fresh fruits like berries or banana slices, maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful treat that combines sweet flavors with a soft texture, making it perfect for any breakfast occasion. The recipe is versatile; you can customize it with various toppings or even swap ingredients to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!