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. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy morning at home, 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 quick steps, you can whip this up in no time.
- Deliciously Sweet: The combination of Hawaiian rolls and cinnamon creates a delightful flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a casual weekend brunch, this dish fits right in.
- Impressive Presentation: Dusted with powdered sugar and topped with berries, it looks as good as it tastes!
Tools and Preparation
To make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Toothpick or skewer
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet or griddle: Ensures the rolls cook evenly without sticking, leading to perfectly golden-brown edges.
- Whisk: Helps combine the custard ingredients smoothly for an even texture throughout the rolls.
- Toothpick or skewer: Essential for allowing the custard to soak deep into the rolls for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 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 and Serving
- 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, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt 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 the custard can soak in effectively.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Be careful not to soak them too long; otherwise, they may become soggy.
Step 4: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls on the skillet and cook for about 30-60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Turn them carefully with a spatula to ensure all sides are crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Enjoy this delightful breakfast creation!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful treat that can be tailored to your taste. Here are some fun and delicious serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and arrange them on top for a burst of flavor.
- Blueberries: Add a handful of blueberries for a sweet and tangy touch.
- Raspberries: Sprinkle some raspberries for a pop of color and tartness.
Drizzled with Syrups
- Maple Syrup: A classic choice that adds sweetness and richness.
- Coconut Syrup: Enhance the tropical vibe by drizzling coconut syrup over your toast.
- Honey: A drizzle of honey offers floral notes that pair well with the cinnamon.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Make simple whipped cream at home for a light and airy topping.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
Garnished with Nuts
- Chopped Pecans: Add crunch by sprinkling chopped pecans on top.
- Sliced Almonds: Thinly sliced almonds provide a nutty undertone that complements the sweetness.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To make sure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.
- Use fresh rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls soak up the custard better, resulting in softer toast.
- Don’t over-soak: Limit soaking time to 30 seconds per side to prevent sogginess while allowing flavor absorption.
- Control the heat: Cooking on medium-low heat ensures even cooking without burning the outside before the inside is set.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture for added depth of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Crispy Bacon: The savory, salty flavor of crispy bacon balances the sweetness of the toast.
- Breakfast Sausage: Flavorful sausage links or patties add protein and heartiness to your brunch spread.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the dish beautifully.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit in a glass for a creamy, crunchy side option.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide texture and make for a filling side dish alongside your toast.
- Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl packed with fruits can be a refreshing addition to your breakfast table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Over-soaking the rolls: Soaking the rolls for too long can make them soggy instead of fluffy. Aim for just 30 seconds on each side.
- Not using enough custard: If you don’t have enough custard mixture, the rolls won’t absorb enough flavor. Ensure your egg and milk mix is generous.
- Cooking on high heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Stick to medium-low heat for even cooking.
- Skipping the toppings: Hawaiian Roll French Toast is delightful on its own, but adding toppings like powdered sugar and fresh fruit enhances its appeal. Don’t skip this step!
- Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Stale rolls won’t absorb the custard properly. Use fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They can be kept for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
- 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 warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat pieces on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a nonstick skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked queries:
Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness, any soft bread like brioche or challah works well too.
How can I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Feel free to mix in flavored extracts like almond or coconut, or add spices such as nutmeg for extra warmth and complexity.
What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Popular options include maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruits, and nuts. Choose what suits your taste!
Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick breakfasts later.
How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute half and half with almond milk or coconut milk, and choose dairy-free butter when cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, you can customize it with various toppings or flavors. Give it a try and see how easily it becomes a favorite in your home!
Breakfast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a heavenly breakfast with Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a delightful dish that combines the soft, sweet texture of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with a rich, custardy filling. Perfectly infused with cinnamon and vanilla, each bite melts in your mouth, making it an irresistible choice for brunch or cozy mornings at home. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also offers endless customization options—whether you prefer fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Impress your family and friends with this stunning breakfast creation that looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 (12-pack) King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Powdered sugar and fresh fruit (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and half-and-half until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt.
- Poke holes in the bottom of each roll using a toothpick to allow custard absorption.
- Dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown.
- Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh fruit or syrup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (75g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
