Hawaiian Roll French Toast

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite! The sweet, fluffy rolls absorb a rich cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, creating a unique flavor that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself on a weekend morning, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. With its soft texture and delicious toppings like maple syrup and fresh berries, it’s hard to resist!

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

This dish has so much to offer!

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up this delightful breakfast in no time.
• Unique Flavor: The buttery sweetness of Hawaiian rolls paired with cinnamon creates an irresistible taste that stands out from regular French toast.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or an extravagant brunch with friends, this dish fits right in.
• Customizable Toppings: Top it with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries to suit your taste preferences.
• Kid-Friendly: Its sweet flavor profile makes it appealing to children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make preparing your Hawaiian Roll French Toast even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9 x 13 baking dish
• Whisk
• Plate for resting rolls
• Aluminum foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking multiple rolls at once, ensuring even browning.
• 9 x 13 baking dish: Perfect size for soaking the rolls without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth egg mixture essential for coating the rolls.

Ingredients

For the Custard Mixture

• 6 eggs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Rolls

• 24-pack sweet Hawaiian rolls

For Cooking

• 4 tablespoons butter, divided

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a 9 x 13 baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Dip each Hawaiian roll into the egg mixture. Turn them gently to coat all sides. Allow the rolls to soak for about 5 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even absorption.

Step 3: Cook the Rolls

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the soaked rolls (or as many as will fit) to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 1 minute per side (approximately 6 minutes per batch). Once cooked, transfer them to a platter covered with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Finish Cooking Remaining Rolls

Wipe out the skillet and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook the rest of the soaked rolls until they are golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your warm Hawaiian Roll French Toast topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only a delightful breakfast but also a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your morning meal.

Classic Toppings

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the top for a sweet finish.
• Powdered Sugar: Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation and added sweetness.

Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.
• Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture that pairs well with the rolls.

Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Lightly whipped cream can add a fluffy texture and enhance the dish’s richness.

Nutty Additions

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast to the soft rolls.
• Coconut Shavings: Add shredded coconut for a tropical twist that complements the Hawaiian rolls.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Perfecting your Hawaiian Roll French Toast ensures every bite is delicious. Here are some tips to make it even better.

• Use Fresh Rolls: Start with soft, fresh Hawaiian rolls for the best texture.
• Soak Thoroughly: Allow the rolls to soak in the egg mixture long enough for full absorption but not too long to fall apart.
• Cook on Medium Heat: Maintain medium heat while cooking to achieve a golden brown outside without burning.
• Add Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom added to the egg mixture for unique flavors.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy them right away while they’re warm and fluffy for the best experience.
• Keep Them Warm: If cooking in batches, keep finished rolls warm in an oven set to low heat until ready to serve.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with complementary side dishes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links balance the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft rolls.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and color on your plate.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy, creamy side.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl complements the richness of the French toast.
6. Hash Browns: Golden hash browns offer a satisfying crunch alongside your sweet breakfast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoiding these will ensure your dish is delicious and perfectly cooked.

• Over-soaking the rolls: If you leave the Hawaiian rolls in the egg mixture for too long, they can become soggy. Aim for a 5-minute soak for the best texture.
• Not using enough butter: Insufficient butter can lead to uneven cooking and sticking. Always use enough butter in your skillet to achieve a golden crust.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: High heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Medium heat is ideal for even cooking.
• Skipping seasoning: Forgetting salt or cinnamon can dull the flavor of your French toast. A pinch of salt and a sprinkle of cinnamon are essential for enhancing taste.
• Serving cold: Cold Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t as enjoyable. Keep cooked rolls warm by covering them with aluminum foil until ready to serve.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each piece on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture in advance and soak the rolls just before cooking. This makes it convenient for busy mornings.

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Popular choices include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, or even sliced bananas.

Is there a way to customize this Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for different flavors.

How do I know when my Hawaiian Roll French Toast is done?

Look for a golden-brown color on all sides, which typically takes about 1 minute per side when cooked properly over medium heat.

Can I use other types of bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

While Hawaiian rolls are ideal due to their sweetness and softness, you can use brioche or challah as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful breakfast that brings joy to any table. Its fluffy texture and sweet flavor make it perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!