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.