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 breakfast that will impress your family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen, this is it! It’s perfect for cozy weekends, special brunches, or busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delightful.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up. Just gather a few simple ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for those busy mornings!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet flavors and fluffy texture.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the custard mixture the night before and soak the rolls in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of Hawaiian rolls with cinnamon and vanilla creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Customizable Toppings: Dress it up with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or maple syrup for a breakfast masterpiece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need much to create this delightful dish! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home.

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add some zest: Mix in some orange or lemon zest to your custard mixture for a zesty twist.
• Go nutty: Top your French toast with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Mix in chocolate: Add mini chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a decadent treat.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for an aromatic flavor boost.

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 is crucial because it creates a rich base that coats our rolls beautifully. Next, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Now comes the fun part! 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. Make sure to turn them so they get coated on all sides—this ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully place your soaked rolls on it. Cook them for about 30-60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. The butter helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked to perfection, serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm! Dust it lightly with powdered sugar and top it off with fresh berries and maple syrup if you like. Each bite will be pure bliss!

Enjoy making this delightful dish—it truly brings smiles around any table!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about technique and a little love in the kitchen! Here are some pro tips to ensure your breakfast turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls will absorb the custard better and provide that soft, fluffy texture you’re looking for. Stale rolls won’t soak up the custard as effectively, resulting in a less satisfying bite.

• Watch the soaking time: Soak the rolls for just 30 seconds. If you leave them in too long, they can become soggy and lose their delightful structure. You want them to be custardy but not falling apart!

• Cook on medium-low heat: This ensures that your French toast cooks evenly without burning. Cooking on too high of a heat can result in a crispy exterior while leaving the inside undercooked.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each roll plenty of space in your skillet or griddle. This allows them to cook evenly and get that gorgeous golden-brown color without steaming.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings beyond syrup and powdered sugar! Fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of honey can add an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Serving up your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully at your breakfast table.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the sweetness of the toast.
• Coconut flakes: Lightly toasted coconut flakes sprinkle on top bring tropical vibes that pair wonderfully with Hawaiian Rolls.
• Chopped nuts: A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts adds crunch and a rich nuttiness that balances out the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi not only looks beautiful but adds freshness to your meal.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side dish that contrasts nicely with the richness of the French toast.
• Smoothie bowl: Blend up your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with granola and seeds for a vibrant and healthful side.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of your French toast, making it a complete breakfast.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable breakfast experience with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making your mornings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to enjoy, you can reheat it gently.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked French toast to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen pieces overnight in the refrigerator if possible.
• To reheat, place in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave for about 30-60 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls a few hours in advance. Just cook them right before serving for that fresh taste!

How do I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage!

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Fresh berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup are fantastic options! You could also try whipped coconut cream or yogurt for a twist.

Can I use different types of bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

While this recipe shines with Hawaiian rolls, you can certainly experiment with other sweet breads or brioche if you’re looking for variety!

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for brunch gatherings?

Definitely! This recipe serves 12 and is sure to impress your guests at any brunch gathering.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Hawaiian Roll French Toast! It’s such a special treat that combines sweetness with a touch of nostalgia. I can already imagine how delightful it will be on your breakfast table! Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones—happy cooking!