Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. This recipe features the irresistible sweetness and softness of King’s Hawaiian rolls, making it perfect for brunch gatherings, family breakfasts, or a cozy weekend treat. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this dish while impressing your guests with its unique flavor profile and comforting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: The use of King’s Hawaiian rolls adds a sweet and soft texture that elevates traditional French toast.
• Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare this dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Top it with fruit or whipped cream for extra flair!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this sweet treat, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the custard overnight for an even easier morning!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or griddle
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or griddle: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked French toast.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients into a smooth custard mixture.
• Whisk: Ensures that the eggs and milk blend thoroughly without lumps.

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 a perfect counterpoint to sweetness of this dish. It creates that familiar aroma that fills your kitchen as French toast cooks.
• Pinch of salt: Don’t skip this! A small pinch enhances all flavors without making it salty; it balances sweetness and makes vanilla notes pop.
• Butter for cooking: Cooking in butter is crucial for flavor. Butter adds richness and helps create a golden-brown exterior. Unsalted butter allows control over salt content but salted also works in a pinch.
• Maple syrup for serving: A drizzle ties all flavors together; its earthy sweetness complements fluffy rolls perfectly.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Gather all ingredients listed above.
2. Cut King’s Hawaiian rolls into halves or quarters based on preference.

Step 2: Make The Custard Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs until well beaten.
2. Add milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt; mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Soak The Rolls

1. Dip each piece of King’s Hawaiian roll into custard mixture; ensure they are coated evenly.
2. Allow them to soak briefly (about 30 seconds) but do not let them become too soggy.

Step 4: Cook The French Toast

1. Heat skillet over medium heat; add butter to coat pan evenly.
2. Place soaked rolls in skillet; cook until golden brown on each side (about 3–4 minutes per side).

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from skillet; place on serving plates.
2. Drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is an opportunity to elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy morning, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish.

Classic Maple Syrup

• Drizzle pure maple syrup over the warm French toast for a sweet finish. The syrup’s earthy flavor complements the rolls perfectly.

Fresh Berries

• Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and freshness. They add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the dish.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft French toast.

Sliced Bananas

• Top with sliced bananas for added sweetness and creaminess. They bring a delightful fruitiness that balances the richness of the custard.

Powdered Sugar

• Dusting with powdered sugar gives your French toast an elegant touch. It enhances visual appeal and adds just a hint of sweetness.

Nuts or Granola

• Sprinkle chopped nuts or granola on top for added crunch and flavor. This adds texture that contrasts nicely with the soft rolls.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, keep these tips in mind:

• Use slightly stale rolls: Day-old Hawaiian rolls absorb the custard better without getting too soggy.
• Whisk thoroughly: Ensure eggs, milk, and vanilla are well combined for an even custard mixture.
• Cook on medium-low heat: This allows the inside to cook through while achieving a golden-brown exterior.
• Do not overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to give each piece enough space for even cooking.
• Let it rest: Allow the soaked rolls to sit in the custard for a few minutes before cooking to enhance flavor absorption.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or cardamom for additional warmth and flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these delectable side dishes to create a balanced meal:

1. Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon complements the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
2. Sausage Links: Juicy sausage links provide hearty protein and add savory flavors to your breakfast spread.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and acidity, balancing out the rich toast.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy, crunchy contrast that’s also healthy.
5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide texture and substance, making your brunch feel more complete.
6. Oven-Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned potatoes add heartiness and pair well with both sweet and savory flavors.
7. Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl can serve as a refreshing side that’s packed with nutrients.
8. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread brings healthy fats into your meal, enhancing its overall richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid to ensure perfection.

• Using fresh rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls can become too mushy when soaked in the custard. Opt for slightly stale rolls for better texture.
• Over-soaking the bread: Allowing the rolls to soak too long can make them overly soggy. Aim for about 30 seconds on each side for optimal absorption without excess moisture.
• Skipping the salt: A pinch of salt might seem unnecessary in a sweet dish, but it enhances flavors. Don’t skip this crucial step for a balanced taste.
• Cooking at high heat: Cooking on high heat may burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Use medium heat for even cooking and a golden-brown finish.
• Not using enough butter: Butter is key to crispy edges and rich flavor. Ensure that your pan is adequately greased with butter before cooking each piece.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on portion size. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls ahead of time. Just refrigerate overnight and cook them fresh in the morning!

What toppings can I use with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You can top it with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or nuts. Maple syrup is classic, but try adding honey or flavored syrups for variety.

How can I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or different spices like nutmeg or cardamom into your custard mix for a unique twist!

Is this recipe suitable for brunch gatherings?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings as it’s easy to prepare and serves multiple people deliciously.

Final Thoughts

The Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and flavorings, making it suitable for any occasion. Try making this comforting dish and enjoy its delightful sweetness!