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 cozy breakfast that brings everyone together, this is it! Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just want to spoil yourself on a quiet weekend, this delightful dish is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Hawaiian Roll French Toast comes together in just 15 minutes! Perfect for busy mornings when you want something special without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweetness and soft texture of these rolls. It’s a great way to get everyone excited about breakfast.
• Make-Ahead Convenient: Prepare the custard mixture ahead of time, so all you have to do in the morning is soak and cook. Less stress means more time to enjoy!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla and cinnamon elevates this dish to a new level of yumminess. It’s like having dessert for breakfast!
• Customizable Toppings: Serve with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup. You can make each serving unique based on what everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful recipe! You’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen or at your local grocery store.

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

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Add a Twist of Citrus: Zest an orange or lemon into the custard mixture for a refreshing flavor boost.
• Go Nutty: Sprinkle in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before cooking for added crunch.
• Fruit-Filled Delight: Layer some sliced bananas or strawberries inside the rolls before soaking them for an extra fruity surprise.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over your finished French toast for a decadent treat!

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Whisk the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined. Then, add in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will create that rich custard base that makes each bite so heavenly!

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in well. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides. Remember not to soak them too long—just enough to absorb that delicious flavor without getting 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 to the pan and cook them for about 30-60 seconds per side until they turn golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them gently so every side gets crispy goodness.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm and dusted with powdered sugar. Top it off with fresh berries or drizzle with maple syrup if desired. Enjoy every bite as it melts in your mouth—it’s pure breakfast joy!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Now that you’re ready to whip up some delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast, here are a few pro tips to ensure your breakfast turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls will soak up the custard better and yield a fluffier texture. Stale rolls may not absorb the mixture as well and can result in a less satisfying bite.

• Don’t skip the holes: Poking holes in the rolls allows the custard to penetrate deeply, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. This small step makes a big difference in taste and texture!

• Cook on medium-low heat: Cooking at a lower temperature allows for even cooking without burning the outside. This way, you’ll achieve a golden brown crust while keeping the inside soft and custardy.

• Let them cool slightly before serving: Allowing your French toast to cool for a minute or two helps set the custard, making it easier to handle when plating. Plus, it’ll prevent you from burning your mouth on that first delicious bite!

• Mix up the flavor: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins like nutmeg or orange zest for a unique twist on this classic recipe. Personalizing it will make it even more special!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Serving this delightful dish is just as fun as making it! With a few simple additions, you can elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast from great to extraordinary.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and an appealing presentation that makes your dish look irresistible.
• Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries not only add color but also provide a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the rolls.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream can make this breakfast treat feel extra indulgent—perfect for special occasions!

Side Dishes

• Crispy bacon alternatives: Try turkey bacon or veggie bacon for a savory crunch that pairs well with the sweet flavors of French toast.
• Yogurt parfait: A simple yogurt parfait made with layers of Greek yogurt, granola, and fruit adds protein and fiber for a balanced meal.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and hydration to your plate, complementing the richness of the French toast perfectly.
• Smoothie: Blend up a quick smoothie with banana and spinach for an easy side that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this scrumptious Hawaiian Roll French Toast! Whether it’s breakfast or brunch, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only a delightful breakfast treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, and it stores beautifully, making your mornings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap individual pieces 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 the best results, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls make it especially sweet and fluffy, you can substitute with challah, brioche, or any soft bread you prefer.

How do I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast vegan?

To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binder, and use plant-based milk instead of half and half.

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast good for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep since you can prepare it in advance and store leftovers easily.

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Fresh berries, whipped cream, banana slices, or a drizzle of maple syrup all complement this dish beautifully!

How do I ensure my Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t soggy?

Make sure not to soak the rolls too long—30 seconds per side is usually perfect. Poking holes helps the custard soak in without oversaturating them.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Hawaiian Roll French Toast as much as I do! It’s a special recipe that brings joy to every brunch table and is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and savor those sweet, fluffy bites; you won’t regret it!