The aroma wafting from the kitchen is enough to lure anyone from their favorite comfy spot on a sleepy Sunday morning. Today, we’re indulging in Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a sweet and buttery breakfast delight that transforms a classic dish into something extraordinary. Soft, slightly sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls provide a unique twist that’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or enjoying a cozy morning with a loved one, this recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience with minimal effort. With endless variations for toppings and flavor enhancements, you can customize each serving to suit everyone’s palate. Are you ready to take your breakfast game to the next level? Let’s get started!
Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast Amazing?
Simplicity in preparation makes this dish perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends. Unique flavor comes from the soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls, bringing a new spin to traditional French toast. Versatile toppings allow you to tailor each plate – think whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Crowd-pleaser appeal ensures everyone from kids to adults will relish this breakfast treat. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, so you can enjoy a delicious breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen! For an additional breakfast idea, check out my delicious Hawaiian Chicken Bowl for a flavorful start to your day!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients
For the Custard
• Eggs –– Provide structure and richness to the custard mixture.
• Half-and-half –– Adds creaminess and depth to the flavor.
• Vanilla extract –– Enhances sweetness and aroma of the dish.
• Cinnamon –– Introduces warmth and spice, balancing the sweetness.
• Brown sugar –– Adds sweetness and caramel notes.
• Salt –– Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
For the Base
• King’s Hawaiian rolls –– The core ingredient, offering a soft and sweet base ideal for soaking.
Feel free to explore different variations with toppings and flavors to complement your Hawaiian Roll French Toast and make it truly your own!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup of half-and-half, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-combined, allowing the sweetness of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast to shine. Set this mixture aside while you move on to the next step.
Step 2: Slice the Hawaiian Rolls
Take your King’s Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half, creating a hinge so they remain intact. With the cut side facing up, gently poke several holes in the bottom of each roll using a toothpick. This will help the rolls absorb the custard more effectively, ensuring that every bite of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is fluffy and flavorful.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Carefully dip each roll into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 30 seconds to 1 minute on both sides. The goal is to coat the rolls thoroughly without making them soggy; they should be slightly saturated but not falling apart. This will give your Hawaiian Roll French Toast that wonderful creamy texture.
Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and become bubbly, which indicates that your cooking surface is ready. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust on your Hawaiian Roll French Toast without burning it.
Step 5: Cook the French Toast
Once the butter is hot, place the soaked rolls cut side down onto the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they turn a rich golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn, and adjust the heat as necessary. Flip the rolls to brown the other side, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Repeat Cooking Process
Continue cooking the remaining rolls in batches, adding more butter to the skillet if needed. Each roll should be crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside. Use this time to prepare any desired toppings, enhancing your Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once all rolls are cooked, serve them warm on a plate. Dust with powdered sugar, and consider adding fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness. The combination of flavors and textures will surely make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast a hit at your breakfast table!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Soak with Care: Avoid oversoaking the rolls as it can lead to sogginess. Just enough time to absorb the custard is key!
- Heat Matters: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the rolls to ensure a beautifully golden crust without burning.
- Batch Cooking: Cook in batches to prevent steaming, which can inhibit that delightful crispiness we love in Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
- Varied Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even chocolate chips to elevate the flavor.
- Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Make Ahead Options
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a fantastic choice for busy mornings, allowing you to prepare components in advance for a quick, delicious breakfast. You can whisk together the custard mixture (eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt) up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, slice the Hawaiian rolls and poke holes in them, so they’re ready to soak. When you’re ready to cook, simply get the skillet heated, soak the rolls in the custard for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, and then cook as instructed. This simple prep allows you to enjoy a warm, homemade Hawaiian Roll French Toast with minimal effort, ensuring your mornings are stress-free and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps your Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh and prevents it from drying out.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked French toast pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster for a couple of minutes for a crispy finish.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the fridge to streamline morning prep.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Start your breakfast adventure with delightful pairings that enhance the buttery sweetness of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a burst of flavor and a hint of tartness. They create a beautiful contrast against the sweet roll.
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Maple Syrup: The classic choice! Its rich, sticky sweetness perfectly complements the French toast while adding an extra layer of flavor.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a dreamy texture that elevates each bite into pure indulgence.
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Crispy Bacon: The saltiness and crunch of crispy bacon balance the sweetness of your French toast, providing a satisfying contrast in flavors.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored yogurt introduces a creamy tang that cuts through the richness, making each bite feel lighter and fresher.
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Savory Breakfast Sausages: Meaty sausages provide a hearty option beside your sweet dish. Their spiced flavors make a delightful pairing for brunch gatherings.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm, rich cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea rounds off your breakfast experience, enhancing the comforting nature of your meal.
Indulge in the delicious textures and flavors of these pairings to make your breakfast unforgettable!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations
Feel free to get creative and elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these delightful twists!
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Fruity Bliss: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a burst of natural sweetness. The explosion of flavors will awaken your senses.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and flavor. The crunch perfectly complements the softness of the rolls.
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Choco-Lover’s Dream: Drizzle chocolate syrup or add chocolate chips during cooking for a decadent treat. Who can resist the richness of chocolate paired with sweet French toast?
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot honey to give your dish a spicy kick. Balance the sweetness with a pop of heat for a flavor adventure.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute half-and-half with almond or oat milk for a plant-based version. Enjoy the same creamy texture while catering to dietary preferences.
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Cinnamon Swirl: Mix in a tablespoon of cinnamon sugar with the custard for an extra sweet and spicy flavor. This twist makes every bite feel indulgently special!
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Tropical Topping: Enhance with coconut flakes or crushed pineapple for a taste of the tropics. This truly brings out the Hawaiian essence of your breakfast.
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Savory Twist: Beat the eggs with herbs like basil or chives to create a savory version. Pairing with a side of crispy bacon creates a delightful brunch experience.
Remember to try these variations the next time you whip up a batch of Hawaiian Roll French Toast! And for more tasty breakfast ideas, consider my scrumptious Spring Roll Salad to add variety to your morning routine.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Hawaiian rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for King’s Hawaiian rolls that are soft, fresh, and free from any dark spots or hard edges. They should have a slight sweetness and a fluffy texture. If possible, purchase them from a bakery section or a store with high turnover to ensure freshness.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet for that delicious crispy finish.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! For freezing, first, let the cooked French toast cool completely. Then, place the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label them for easy access later!
What should I do if my French toast turns out soggy?
Oh no, sogginess can be a common issue! If you find your French toast is soggy, it’s usually because the rolls were soaked too long or weren’t cooked at the right temperature. To avoid this in the future, give each roll a quick soak of about 30 seconds per side and ensure your skillet is hot before cooking. Adjust the heat as needed to achieve a golden crust.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! Since this Hawaiian Roll French Toast contains eggs and dairy, it may not be suitable for those with egg or lactose allergies. For a vegan version, you could substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based milk alternatives. Always check the ingredients on the rolls for any potential allergens.
Can I prepare the custard mixture ahead of time?
Very much so! You can prepare the custard mixture the night before. Just whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This little step will save you time in the morning and make breakfast smooth sailing!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Slice the King's Hawaiian rolls in half, creating a hinge. Poke holes in the bottom with a toothpick.
- Dip each roll into the custard mixture for 30 seconds to 1 minute on both sides without making them soggy.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter until bubbly.
- Place the soaked rolls cut side down onto the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the rolls and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Continue cooking the remaining rolls in batches, adding more butter if needed.
- Serve warm and dust with powdered sugar, adding toppings as desired.