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 family brunches or cozy weekend mornings, this recipe combines the soft sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with a rich custard that transforms breakfast into a delightful experience.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
• Step 2: Soak the Rolls
• Step 3: Cook the Rolls
• Step 4: Serve Warm
• How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• Fresh Fruit
• Maple Syrup
• Whipped Cream
• Nuts
• Yogurt
• How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of bread?
• How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
• What toppings should I use with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Deliciously Sweet: The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with powdered sugar, fresh fruits, or maple syrup to suit any taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a simple weekday breakfast, this dish fits right in.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the little ones involved in soaking the rolls and sprinkling toppings!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

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 easy cooking and flipping without sticking.
• Whisk: Helps combine eggs and milk evenly for a smooth custard.
• Spatula: Ideal for flipping the rolls gently to achieve that perfect golden brown color.

Ingredients

For the Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• 1 12 pack King’s Hawaiian Rolls
• 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
• 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
• Powdered sugar (fresh fruit, maple syrup for serving)

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. Next, whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and pinch of salt until everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in. Working in batches, dip the rolls into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 30 seconds. Be sure to turn them to coat all sides but avoid soaking them too long to prevent sogginess.

Step 3: Cook the Rolls

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook each soaked roll for 30–60 seconds on each side until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them carefully so all sides get crispy.

Step 4: Serve Warm

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup as desired. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about enhancing those sweet, fluffy rolls with delicious accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries: Slice them up and serve alongside for a refreshing contrast.
• Blueberries: Toss these on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas add creaminess and sweetness, perfect for this dish.

Maple Syrup

• Pure maple syrup: Drizzle generously over the warm rolls for a classic touch.
• Flavored syrups: Experiment with blueberry or caramel syrups for a unique twist.

Whipped Cream

• Homemade whipped cream: Lighten things up with freshly whipped cream atop the toast.
• Flavored whipped cream: Consider adding vanilla or cinnamon to match the French toast.

Nuts

• Chopped pecans: Add crunch by sprinkling chopped pecans on top of your French toast.
• Almonds: Sliced almonds provide a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.

Yogurt

• Greek yogurt: Serve a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side for added protein and tang.
• Flavored yogurt: Use vanilla or berry-flavored yogurt to pair perfectly with the dish.

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How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Perfecting Hawaiian Roll French Toast is easy with just a few tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure every bite is heavenly.

• Use day-old rolls: Slightly stale rolls soak up the custard better without falling apart.
• Don’t rush soaking: Allow each roll to soak just long enough (30 seconds) for optimal flavor absorption.
• Control the heat: Keep cooking on medium-low heat to ensure even browning without burning.
• Monitor doneness: Look for golden brown color on each side before flipping; this ensures crispiness.
• Add spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom in your custard mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve right after cooking while they’re still warm.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this sweet breakfast delight.

1. Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory element that balances out the sweetness of the French toast.
2. Sausage Links: Breakfast sausage links provide hearty protein and pair well with maple syrup.
3. Oven-Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the rolls.
4. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate and add natural sweetness to your meal.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl can serve as a refreshing sidekick, packed with fruits and nutrients.
6. Cottage Cheese: Serve cottage cheese on the side for an additional protein boost and creamy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, there are a few common errors that can affect the final result. Avoid these pitfalls for the best outcome.

• Over-soaking the rolls: If you leave the rolls in the custard too long, they can become soggy. A quick 30-second soak is all you need for perfect texture.
• Skipping the holes: Not poking holes in the rolls means the custard won’t soak in properly. Use a toothpick or skewer to create several holes at the bottom for better absorption.
• Cooking on high heat: Cooking on high heat may brown the outside too quickly while leaving the inside uncooked. Medium-low heat is ideal for even cooking.
• Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Stale rolls won’t absorb the custard well and will result in a dry French toast. Always use fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls for best results.
• Neglecting toppings: Skipping toppings can make your dish feel incomplete. Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh fruit or maple syrup for enhanced flavor and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 30-60 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a nonstick skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, while Hawaiian Rolls are delicious, you can substitute with brioche or challah for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast gluten-free, use gluten-free bread instead of King’s Hawaiian Rolls.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and cook it fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast option.

What toppings should I use with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Popular toppings include powdered sugar, fresh berries, bananas, whipped cream, and maple syrup.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or even mix in ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts. This easy recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike; give it a try!