There’s something truly special about mornings that start with a warm, indulgent breakfast. Hawaiian Roll French Toast is one of those dishes that transforms an ordinary day into a memorable one. With its soft, sweet bread soaked in a velvety cinnamon-vanilla custard, cooked until golden, and topped with your favorite indulgences, this dish is as comforting as it is impressive.
This recipe takes the classic French toast we all know and love and gives it a tropical twist, using King’s Hawaiian Rolls to add a uniquely sweet and buttery flavor. These rolls, renowned for their pillowy texture, are the perfect canvas for soaking up a flavorful custard. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating the family to a special breakfast, or simply spoiling yourself on a lazy morning, this dish delivers a delightful balance of ease and elegance. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing favorite and learn why it’s destined to become a staple in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Yet Elegant: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy but feels fancy enough for a special occasion.
- Perfect for Sharing: These bite-sized rolls are ideal for serving a group, whether it’s a family breakfast or a festive brunch.
- Versatile and Customizable: Add your own spin by incorporating fillings, experimenting with toppings, or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: The soft, sweet rolls and finger-friendly portions make this a breakfast everyone can enjoy, including little ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Custard:
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: 1 pack (12 rolls)
- Large Eggs: 3
- Half-and-Half or Whole Milk: 3/4 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: A pinch
For Cooking:
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (divided, for cooking)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered Sugar
- Fresh Berries
- Maple Syrup
- Whipped Cream
- Chocolate Chips or Caramel Drizzle
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
Start by whisking together the custard ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until smooth. Add the half-and-half, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This custard is the heart of the recipe, infusing each roll with rich, sweet flavors.
Step 2: Prep the Rolls
Keep the rolls intact for easier handling and even cooking. To help the custard soak in, poke small holes in the bottom of each roll with a toothpick or skewer. This little trick ensures that the rolls absorb the maximum amount of custard, making every bite flavorful.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Pour the custard into a shallow dish or bowl. Working in batches, dip each roll into the mixture, letting it soak for about 30 seconds per side. Flip to ensure even coating. Be careful not to oversoak the rolls, as they can become too soft to handle.
Step 4: Cook the Rolls
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted and begins to sizzle, gently place the soaked rolls onto the skillet. Cook the rolls for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to turn them carefully, ensuring all sides are evenly browned.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the rolls to cook evenly. If necessary, cook them in multiple batches, adding more butter as needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the cooked rolls to a serving platter. While they’re still warm, sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream for added indulgence. You can also drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
- Use Chilled Rolls: Slightly chilled or day-old Hawaiian rolls are easier to handle and soak up just the right amount of custard without falling apart.
- Adjust the Sweetness: For a more pronounced sweetness, sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon-sugar on top of the rolls before cooking.
- Try Stuffed Rolls: Before soaking, create a small pocket in each roll and fill it with cream cheese, Nutella, or sliced bananas for an irresistible surprise.
- Keep It Warm: If making multiple batches, keep the cooked rolls warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven until ready to serve.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Notes:
- Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be partially prepped in advance. Prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply soak the rolls and cook them fresh.
- Alternative Breads: If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls, brioche, challah, or soft dinner rolls work well as substitutes.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk to make this recipe dairy-free. Replace butter with a plant-based alternative if needed.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
Please note that nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I freeze leftover French toast rolls?
Absolutely! Once cooked, allow the rolls to cool completely. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
How can I avoid soggy French toast?
Avoid over-soaking the rolls in the custard mixture. A quick 20–30 second dip per side is sufficient. Also, cook on medium-low heat to ensure the inside cooks without burning the exterior.
What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
The options are endless! Classic choices include powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup. For a decadent twist, try chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked rolls as described above for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Related Recipes:
If you enjoyed this Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll love these other breakfast favorites:
Conclusion:
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a breakfast delight that’s simple to make yet indulgent enough to impress. Perfect for family gatherings, brunch with friends, or a cozy weekend morning, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. The combination of fluffy rolls, sweet custard, and golden-brown crust is irresistible—and the customization options make it a versatile addition to your breakfast repertoire. Try it today and elevate your mornings to new heights of deliciousness!
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Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Sweet, Pillowy Perfection for Breakfast
Description
There’s something truly special about mornings that start with a warm, indulgent breakfast. Hawaiian Roll French Toast is one of those dishes that transforms an ordinary day into a memorable one. With its soft, sweet bread soaked in a velvety cinnamon-vanilla custard, cooked until golden, and topped with your favorite indulgences, this dish is as comforting as it is impressive.
This recipe takes the classic French toast we all know and love and gives it a tropical twist, using King’s Hawaiian Rolls to add a uniquely sweet and buttery flavor. These rolls, renowned for their pillowy texture, are the perfect canvas for soaking up a flavorful custard. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating the family to a special breakfast, or simply spoiling yourself on a lazy morning, this dish delivers a delightful balance of ease and elegance. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing favorite and learn why it’s destined to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: 1 pack (12 rolls)
- Large Eggs: 3
- Half-and-Half or Whole Milk: 3/4 cup
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: A pinch
For Cooking:
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (divided, for cooking)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered Sugar
- Fresh Berries
- Maple Syrup
- Whipped Cream
- Chocolate Chips or Caramel Drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
Start by whisking together the custard ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until smooth. Add the half-and-half, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This custard is the heart of the recipe, infusing each roll with rich, sweet flavors.
Step 2: Prep the Rolls
Keep the rolls intact for easier handling and even cooking. To help the custard soak in, poke small holes in the bottom of each roll with a toothpick or skewer. This little trick ensures that the rolls absorb the maximum amount of custard, making every bite flavorful.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Pour the custard into a shallow dish or bowl. Working in batches, dip each roll into the mixture, letting it soak for about 30 seconds per side. Flip to ensure even coating. Be careful not to oversoak the rolls, as they can become too soft to handle.
Step 4: Cook the Rolls
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted and begins to sizzle, gently place the soaked rolls onto the skillet. Cook the rolls for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to turn them carefully, ensuring all sides are evenly browned.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow the rolls to cook evenly. If necessary, cook them in multiple batches, adding more butter as needed.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the cooked rolls to a serving platter. While they’re still warm, sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream for added indulgence. You can also drizzle chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be partially prepped in advance. Prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply soak the rolls and cook them fresh.
- Alternative Breads: If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls, brioche, challah, or soft dinner rolls work well as substitutes.
- Dietary Adjustments: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk to make this recipe dairy-free. Replace butter with a plant-based alternative if needed.