Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Oh friends, have I got a treat for you today! If you’re looking for a breakfast that will make your morning feel special, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is just the ticket. Imagine sweet, fluffy rolls soaked in a rich custard, perfectly golden and drizzled with syrup. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekend brunches with family and friends.

This dish brings a touch of aloha to your table, and it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply want to indulge on a Sunday morning, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast will leave everyone smiling!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet flavor and soft texture of these rolls—it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the custard mixture ahead of time, making breakfast even easier on busy mornings.
• Endless Toppings: Dress it up with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup—everyone can customize their own plate!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual breakfasts to festive brunches, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These are likely items you already have in your pantry or can easily find at your local grocery store!

For the Custard

• 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

• 4 tablespoons butter

For Serving

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh fruit
• Maple syrup

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Some Zest: Try adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the custard for an extra citrusy flavor.
• Mix in Chocolate: Fold in some chocolate chips into the custard for those chocolate lovers at your table.
• Go Nutty: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch.
• Fruit-Infused Delight: Substitute fresh berries or banana slices directly into the rolls before soaking them for an added fruity burst.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined. This step creates a rich base that soaks into our delicious rolls. Next, add in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and pinch of salt. Whisk until everything is beautifully blended; this custard is what makes our French toast so creamy and flavorful!

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Using a toothpick or skewer, poke several holes in the bottom of each roll. This step is crucial because it allows the custard mixture to soak deep into each roll without getting them soggy. Now comes the fun part! Working in batches, dip each roll into your custard mixture for about 30 seconds. Turn them gently to coat all sides evenly—this ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted and bubbly, carefully place your soaked rolls onto the skillet. Cook them for about 30-60 seconds per side until they turn golden brown. It’s important not to rush this step; taking your time helps achieve that beautiful crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Once cooked, serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm! Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries or drizzle with maple syrup if desired. Get ready for smiles all around as everyone digs into this sweet breakfast treat!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast is easy with a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your breakfast masterpiece turns out just right.

• Use Stale Rolls: If you have leftover Hawaiian rolls, use them! Stale bread absorbs the custard better and creates a delicious texture.

• Don’t Over-Soak: Keep an eye on your soaking time; 30 seconds is ideal. Over-soaking can lead to mushy rolls that don’t hold their shape during cooking.

• Adjust the Heat: Cooking on medium-low heat is key. This allows the inside to cook through without burning the outside, giving you that perfect golden-brown crust.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other flavors like nutmeg or orange zest into your custard for a fun twist. It adds a unique touch that can elevate this classic dish!

• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve these lovely rolls right after cooking while they’re warm and crispy. They’re at their peak deliciousness straight from the skillet!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

When it comes to serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast, presentation is everything! You want to make this delightful dish not only taste good but look appealing too. Here are some ideas for serving your creation.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and a touch of elegance.
• Fresh Berries: Top with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and freshness.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint can add a pop of green and enhance the overall presentation.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A side of creamy Greek yogurt offers protein and tanginess that pairs wonderfully with the sweet French toast.

• Crispy Bacon Alternatives: Try turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a savory crunch that complements the sweetness of the rolls.

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the French toast.

• Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch, making for a hearty breakfast alongside your sweet treat.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will be an unforgettable meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful breakfast without the hassle! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for those busy mornings.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the cooked French toast cool completely 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 best quality.

Reheating

• For reheating from frozen: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the French toast on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For quicker reheating, use a microwave: Heat each piece on medium power for 30-60 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While King’s Hawaiian Rolls provide a unique sweetness, you can experiment with brioche, challah, or any soft bread you love.

How do I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast vegan?

To make a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

Can I prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast overnight?

Yes! Prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls in it overnight in the refrigerator. Just cook them in the morning for a quick breakfast!

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Try fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hawaiian Roll French Toast as much as I do! It’s such a special recipe filled with warmth and sweetness that brings everyone together at the breakfast table. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to share your experiences or any variations you come up with—I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking!