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, holiday mornings, or a cozy family breakfast, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful dish in under 15 minutes.
- Deliciously Sweet: The combination of Hawaiian rolls and cinnamon creates a unique flavor that will have you craving more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or drizzle with maple syrup for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a festive holiday breakfast, this dish fits right in.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet taste and fluffy texture of this French toast.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, having the right tools is essential. They help ensure that your cooking process goes smoothly and your toast comes out perfectly golden.
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 that your French toast doesn’t stick while cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the custard ingredients easily without any mess.
- Whisk: A whisk is crucial for combining the eggs and milk smoothly, ensuring even flavor throughout each roll.
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
- 4 tablespoons butter, for cooking
For Serving
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit
- Maple syrup
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. Whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until everything is incorporated.
Step 2: Soak the Rolls
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. Let them soak for about 30 seconds while turning to coat all sides. Be careful not to over-soak them; otherwise, they’ll become soggy.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully add the soaked rolls and cook for about 30-60 seconds on each side until they turn golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them gently.
Step 4: Serve
Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about enhancing its delightful flavors and textures. Here are some creative ways to elevate your breakfast experience.
Classic Toppings
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and a touch of elegance.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm syrup over the top for a rich, sweet contrast.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide freshness and acidity.
Gourmet Combinations
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop for extra creaminess that complements the rolls.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut for a tropical twist that pairs perfectly with the Hawaiian rolls.
- Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for a nutty flavor and added protein.
Savory Options
- Bacon or Sausage: Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links for a sweet and savory breakfast.
- Greek Yogurt: A side of yogurt can add creaminess and tang, balancing the sweetness of the toast.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast truly irresistible, follow these simple tips for perfection.
- Choose Fresh Rolls: Using fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls ensures maximum flavor and texture.
- Don’t Over-soak: Dip rolls quickly in the custard mixture to avoid sogginess while allowing enough time for absorption.
- Use Medium-Low Heat: Cooking on medium-low heat allows the inside to cook thoroughly without burning the outside.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Incorporating extra vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile of your French toast.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that balances out the sweet toast.
- Sausage Links: Juicy sausage links provide a hearty addition to your breakfast spread.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and color to the plate.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a light counterpart to the rich French toast.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add texture and heartiness, creating a satisfying meal.
- Smoothie Bowl: A nutrient-packed bowl can complement your sweet dish while adding health benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your breakfast turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the soak time: Not allowing the rolls to soak long enough in the custard can lead to a dry texture. Make sure each roll is immersed for at least 30 seconds to absorb the flavors.
- Over-soaking the rolls: On the flip side, soaking for too long can make the rolls soggy. Keep an eye on your timing and don’t exceed 30 seconds per roll.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality eggs or milk can impact the flavor of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Always choose fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Not preheating your pan: Cooking in a cold skillet may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your nonstick skillet or griddle before adding butter and rolls.
- Skipping toppings: Hawaiian Roll French Toast deserves delicious toppings! Don’t forget to add powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup for an extra special touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This keeps it crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warm. Be cautious not to overheat as it may become chewy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. This method helps maintain a crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, here are some frequently asked questions that might help!
What can I use instead of King’s Hawaiian Rolls?
You can substitute with any sweet dinner rolls or brioche bread to achieve a similar taste and texture.
Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls ahead of time, then cook them just before serving for fresher taste.
What toppings work best with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Delicious options include powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup. Choose your favorites!
How do I ensure my Hawaiian Roll French Toast is fluffy?
Ensure you whisk the egg mixture well and avoid soaking too long. A good balance of custard soaking will give you light and fluffy toast.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or even add spices like nutmeg for added flavor. It’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch gathering, so give this recipe a try, and experience its comforting goodness yourself!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful breakfast that combines the sweet, pillowy goodness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with a rich, creamy custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla. This recipe transforms simple rolls into an indulgent brunch treat that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekends. With its irresistible texture and flavor, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Serve it warm topped with powdered sugar, fresh berries, or maple syrup for an unforgettable start to your day.
Ingredients
- 12 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
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt.
- Poke holes in the bottom of each roll using a toothpick. Dip each roll in the custard mixture for about 30 seconds per side.
- Heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls until golden brown on both sides (30-60 seconds).
- Serve warm with toppings like powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (90g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, add nutmeg alongside cinnamon. Substitute King’s Hawaiian Rolls with brioche or other sweet dinner rolls if desired. Consider adding whipped cream or toasted coconut on top for a gourmet touch.
