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, lazy weekends, or even a special holiday breakfast, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls with rich custard creates a delightful flavor that will leave you craving more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Top it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup for a customizable experience.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s ideal for family gatherings or brunch parties.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the sweetness and fun texture of this dish, making it an easy way to get them excited about breakfast.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking 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 that the rolls cook evenly without sticking, resulting in perfectly golden-brown French toast.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to whisk the custard mixture without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a well-mixed custard that coats the rolls evenly.
Ingredients
For the Custard Mixture
- 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 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. Then, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until everything is nicely incorporated.
Step 2: Soak the Rolls
Using a toothpick or skewer, poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in effectively. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds, turning them to coat all sides thoroughly. Be careful not to soak them too long to avoid sogginess.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls in the skillet and cook them for about 30-60 seconds per side until they turn golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them carefully, ensuring all sides get crispy.
Step 4: Serve It Up!
Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh berries or maple syrup as desired for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this sweet treat that will impress your family and friends.
Fresh Fruit Toppings
- Berries: Top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
- Banana Slices: Add ripe banana slices for a creamy texture that complements the sweetness.
- Peach Chunks: Fresh peaches provide a juicy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon flavor.
Sauces and Syrups
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup over the warm French toast for classic sweetness.
- Honey: A touch of honey adds a floral note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Chocolate Sauce: For an indulgent twist, drizzle chocolate sauce on top for chocoholics.
Dusting and Garnishes
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar makes the dish look elegant while adding extra sweetness.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar for an extra layer of flavor that complements the toast.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is irresistible, follow these handy tips. They will help you achieve a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish every time.
- Use Day-Old Rolls: Using slightly stale rolls allows them to soak up more custard without becoming too soggy.
- Adjust Soaking Time: Soak each roll just long enough—about 30 seconds—to absorb the custard without falling apart.
- Cook on Low Heat: Cooking over medium-low heat ensures even cooking and avoids burning while keeping the inside fluffy.
- Experiment with Flavorings: Feel free to add nutmeg or almond extract to the custard for unique flavors.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast right after cooking to enjoy it warm and crispy.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Roll French Toast can create a balanced meal. Consider these options for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch spread.
- Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds savory richness that contrasts beautifully with sweet French toast.
- Breakfast Sausages: Juicy sausages provide hearty protein, making your meal more filling.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer a light, savory complement to the sweetness of the toast.
- Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait with granola and fruits brings creaminess and crunch to your plate.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add healthy fats and balance out the sweetness of the French toast.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns introduce a satisfying crunch that pairs well with soft toast.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides lightness and additional vitamins alongside your dish.
- Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl makes a nutritious addition, offering fruity flavors that enhance your brunch experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Over-soaking the rolls: If you let the rolls soak in the custard too long, they can become soggy. Aim for about 30 seconds on each side for the perfect texture.
- Not using enough butter: Cooking the rolls in a non-stick skillet requires enough butter to prevent sticking and achieve a golden-brown finish. Don’t skimp on it!
- Skipping the holes: Poking holes in the rolls allows them to absorb more custard. Failing to do this will leave you with bland spots.
- Using low-quality eggs: Fresh, high-quality eggs make a huge difference in flavor. Opt for organic or farm-fresh if possible.
- Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking on too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Maintain medium-low heat for even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as it may become rubbery.
- Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions readers often have about Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
Can I use other types of rolls?
You can definitely experiment with other sweet rolls like brioche or challah, but King’s Hawaiian Rolls add a unique sweetness.
How can I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, or top with different fruits and syrups based on your preferences!
Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze portions ahead of time, making it an easy breakfast option during busy mornings.
What sides pair well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Consider serving it with crispy bacon or sausage links for a balanced meal that combines sweet and savory flavors.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Hawaiian Roll French Toast, simply substitute regular rolls with gluten-free options available at many grocery stores.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is perfect for those cozy mornings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s incredibly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins! Give it a try and experience breakfast bliss at its finest.
Breakfast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a breakfast masterpiece that transforms sweet, fluffy rolls into a luxurious morning treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. Imagine sinking your teeth into golden-brown slices, kissed with cinnamon and vanilla, then topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a leisurely weekend, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Fresh fruit
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Poke holes in the bottom of each Hawaiian roll using a toothpick. Dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds to soak.
- Heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with dusting of powdered sugar and toppings of fresh fruit or maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (53g)
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
