Name: Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 pack King's Hawaiian Rolls (12 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)

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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 or cozy family breakfasts, this recipe is sure to impress at any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls, cinnamon, and vanilla makes this dish absolutely delightful.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of total time, you can whip up this delicious breakfast without much hassle.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream for a customizable experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a simple weekday breakfast, this dish fits right in.
Kid-Friendly Delight: Kids love the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, making it a hit with the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick skillet or griddle
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Toothpick or skewer
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick skillet or griddle: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking for perfectly golden French toast.
Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to whisk together all the ingredients without making a mess.
Whisk: Ensures that all custard ingredients are well combined for an even flavor throughout.
Spatula: Helps in flipping the rolls gently to avoid breaking them during cooking.

Ingredients

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)

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, add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

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

Step 3: Soak the Rolls

Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds while turning to coat all sides. Be careful not to soak them too long to avoid sogginess.

Step 4: Cook the Rolls

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook each soaked roll for about 30-60 seconds on each side until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them carefully for even crispiness.

Step 5: 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 delicious breakfast treat!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is as fun as making it! This sweet breakfast dish can be customized in many delightful ways, making each bite a unique experience. Here are some delicious ideas to elevate your serving game.

Classic Toppings

Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and beauty, enhancing the fluffy texture of the rolls.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup brings a rich flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the rolls.

Fresh Fruits

Berries: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.

Whipped Cream Delight

Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream gives an indulgent touch, perfect for special occasions.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding vanilla or coconut extract to your whipped cream for a tropical twist.

Nutty Additions

Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.
Nut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter adds richness and protein to your breakfast.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Perfecting Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure each bite is heavenly.

Use Stale Rolls: Using slightly stale rolls helps them absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Soak Briefly: Dip the rolls quickly in the custard mixture—30 seconds per side is ideal to keep them fluffy.
Adjust Heat Level: Cook on medium-low heat to ensure even browning without burning the outside.
Experiment with Flavors: Add spices like nutmeg or a splash of rum extract to customize the flavor profile.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve immediately after cooking while they’re still warm and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pairing sides with Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a savory balance to the sweetness of the French toast—perfect for brunch!
Sausage Links: Flavorful sausage links offer protein and pair well with sweet dishes.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing contrast.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing side that enhances the tropical vibes.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add richness and make this breakfast even more satisfying.
Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy breakfast potatoes introduce a hearty element that complements the sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, avoiding these common pitfalls can elevate your dish.

Over-soaking the rolls: If you soak the Hawaiian rolls for too long, they can become soggy. Aim for 30 seconds per side to keep them fluffy.
Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can prevent the custard from blending well. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother mixture.
Not preheating the skillet: Cooking on a cold skillet leads to uneven cooking. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the soaked rolls.
Skipping the butter: Butter adds flavor and helps achieve that golden-brown crust. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for great texture.
Rushing the cooking time: Cooking too quickly on high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Use medium-low heat for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

item Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
item They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast

item Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
item Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual pieces on a microwave-safe plate for about 30-45 seconds.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast special?

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is unique due to its sweet, fluffy texture from the rolls. This dish combines traditional French toast with a tropical twist, making it a delightful breakfast option.

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls in advance. Simply store them in the fridge overnight and cook them fresh in the morning.

How do I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You can add ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices such as nutmeg. Topping options include whipped cream, fruit compote, or flavored syrups for extra flavor.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute half-and-half with almond milk or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter when cooking. The flavor will still be delightful!

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only scrumptious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe out and enjoy a breakfast that feels like a treat any day of the week!