Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Recipe By:
Natalia
Updated:

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. This recipe showcases the sweetness and unique flavor of King’s Hawaiian rolls, making it an ideal choice for brunches, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekend breakfast. The soft, fluffy texture combined with the rich custard creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls and warm spices creates a comforting dish that tantalizes the taste buds.
  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as is or dress it up with your favorite toppings like fruit, whipped cream, or nuts.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a regular day, this French toast adds a special touch to any meal.
  • Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavor and fun presentation make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Non-stick skillet or griddle: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making flipping easier.
  • Mixing bowl: A must for combining your custard ingredients efficiently.
  • Whisk: Helps to blend eggs and milk smoothly for a lump-free custard.

Ingredients

For the French Toast

  • 1 package King’s Hawaiian rolls: This is the star of the show. The original King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are the ideal choice. Their unique recipe, which includes a touch of pineapple juice, gives them their characteristic softness and sweetness. While you could technically use other brands of sweet dinner rolls, the texture and flavor of King’s Hawaiian are unparalleled for this specific recipe. It’s worth seeking out the name brand for the authentic experience. For best results, use rolls that are a day or two old. Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard more effectively without becoming overly saturated and mushy.
  • 4 large eggs: The eggs are the foundation of our custard. They provide the protein structure that cooks up to create the classic French toast texture, binding the liquid to the bread. Using large eggs ensures you have the right ratio of egg to milk for a rich but not overly eggy custard. For the best flavor and color, opt for fresh, high-quality eggs.
  • 1 cup milk: Milk thins the eggs, creating a smooth custard that can easily soak into the rolls. It adds moisture and creaminess, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Whole milk is recommended for the richest flavor and texture. However, you can easily substitute it with 2% milk, half-and-half for an even more decadent version, or non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla is the essential aromatic that elevates the custard from simple to sublime. It adds a warm, floral sweetness that complements both cinnamon and inherent sweetness of the rolls. Using pure vanilla extract will provide a much more complex flavor than imitation vanilla.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Cinnamon is the classic French toast spice. Its warm notes are perfect against sweetness of dish; adjust to taste!
  • Pinch of salt: Don’t skip this! A small pinch enhances all flavors without making it salty.
  • Butter for cooking: Adds rich flavor while achieving golden-brown exterior; unsalted preferred but salted works too.
  • Maple syrup for serving: Drizzle over French toast for that perfect finishing touch; earthy sweetness complements cinnamon-infused rolls.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients listed above so you’re ready to cook!

Step 2: Make Custard Mixture

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  2. Ensure there are no lumps in your mixture; it should be smooth.

Step 3: Soak Rolls

  1. Slice each roll in half horizontally.
  2. Dip each half into your custard mixture briefly—make sure they soak in without getting too soggy.

Step 4: Cook French Toast

  1. Heat your non-stick skillet over medium heat; add butter until melted.
  2. Place soaked roll halves into skillet; cook until golden brown on one side (about 3–4 minutes).
  3. Flip carefully using spatula; cook other side until golden as well.

Step 5: Serve Warm

  1. Transfer cooked French toast onto plates.
  2. Drizzle generously with maple syrup before serving!

Now you have an exquisite Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe ready to impress family or friends! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Serving your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can elevate the experience and make it even more delightful. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy this sweet treat.

Classic Maple Syrup

  • Drizzle pure maple syrup over your French toast for that traditional taste that perfectly complements the sweetness of the rolls.

Fresh Fruits

  • Top your French toast with slices of fresh strawberries, bananas, or blueberries for a burst of flavor and a healthy touch.

Whipped Cream

  • Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent dessert-like experience that is sure to impress your guests.

Nuts and Seeds

  • Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds for added crunch and flavor. Toast them lightly for an extra nutty aroma.

Chocolate Chips

  • For chocolate lovers, adding chocolate chips can transform your breakfast into a delicious dessert option.

Coconut Flakes

  • Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top to enhance the tropical vibe of the Hawaiian rolls, adding both texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Perfecting your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

  • Choose slightly stale rolls: Using day-old King’s Hawaiian rolls allows them to soak up the custard without becoming too soggy.
  • Whisk thoroughly: Make sure your egg mixture is well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors in every bite.
  • Preheat your pan: Ensure your skillet or griddle is hot before cooking. This helps create a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside fluffy.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Giving each piece enough space ensures that they cook evenly and develop that perfect texture.
  • Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like yogurt or fruit compote for added flavor variations.
  • Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your French toast right after cooking while it’s warm and fluffy.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some suggestions to consider.

  1. Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory touch that balances out the sweetness of the French toast.
  2. Sausage Links: Juicy sausage links offer another protein option that pairs well with breakfast favorites.
  3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the French toast.
  4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a creamy, crunchy side that complements your dish beautifully.
  5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with soft French toast.
  6. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can be a nutritious side that adds color and flavor to your breakfast spread.
  7. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread provides healthy fats and makes for an interesting brunch pairing.
  8. Eggs Any Style: Whether scrambled, poached, or fried, eggs add protein and round out your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

  • Using fresh rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls can be too soft and may become overly soggy. For the best texture, use rolls that are a day or two old.
  • Skipping the salt: A pinch of salt enhances flavors, even in sweet dishes. Neglecting this step can lead to a bland final product.
  • Over-soaking the rolls: Allowing the rolls to soak too long can result in mushiness. A quick dip is often enough; they should absorb just the right amount without falling apart.
  • Not preheating the pan: Cooking in a cold pan can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your skillet or griddle for that perfect golden-brown crust.
  • Ignoring quality ingredients: Using low-quality eggs or milk can affect flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to elevate your dish.
  • Skipping toppings: While syrup is traditional, don’t forget about other delicious toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit that can add flavor and visual appeal.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

  • Place cooled French toast pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place French toast on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just soak and cook the rolls when you’re ready.

What variations can I try with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe?

Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or incorporate chocolate chips or berries for extra flavor.

How do I keep my Hawaiian Roll French Toast from getting soggy?

Limit soaking time and ensure your rolls are slightly stale for better absorption without sogginess.

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

While King’s Hawaiian rolls are recommended, you can substitute with other sweet bread varieties if desired, though results may vary.

Final Thoughts

The Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional French toast with its unique sweetness and soft texture. It’s versatile enough to customize with various toppings and flavors, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch. Don’t hesitate to try it out and create your own delicious variations!

Print
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Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delicious twist on a breakfast classic that brings a unique sweetness to your morning routine. Made with soft, fluffy King’s Hawaiian rolls, this recipe creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for brunch or cozy weekends. The rich custard, infused with vanilla and cinnamon, envelops each roll, resulting in a delightful dish that both kids and adults will love. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare—ideal for busy mornings when you want something special without the fuss. Serve it warm with maple syrup, fresh fruits, or whipped cream for a wonderfully indulgent treat.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package King’s Hawaiian rolls
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk (whole or non-dairy)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Butter (for cooking)
  • Maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  2. Slice each Hawaiian roll in half horizontally and briefly dip each half into the custard mixture.
  3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt butter.
  4. Cook soaked roll halves until golden brown on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side).
  5. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Use slightly stale King's Hawaiian rolls for best absorption without sogginess. Experiment with toppings like fresh fruits, nuts, or whipped cream to customize your dish. You can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time for even quicker cooking in the morning.

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