Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. This recipe features soft, sweet rolls that soak up the creamy custard, resulting in a dish that’s perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekend breakfast. The combination of flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—it’s suitable for any occasion!
• Deliciously Sweet: The natural sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls paired with rich custard makes every bite irresistible.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into our Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the custard ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth and creamy custard by thoroughly blending the eggs and milk.
• Skillet or griddle: Provides an even cooking surface for perfectly golden-brown French toast.
• Spatula: Useful for flipping the toast without breaking it apart.

Ingredients

For the French Toast

• 1 package King’s Hawaiian rolls: The star ingredient that adds sweetness and softness.
• 4 large eggs: Key for creating a rich custard base.
• 1 cup milk: Ensures moisture and creaminess in the final dish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds aromatic flavor to enhance the custard.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Classic spice that complements the sweetness of the dish.
• Pinch of salt: Balances flavors without making it salty.
• Butter for cooking: Creates a flavorful, crispy exterior on the toast.
• Maple syrup for serving: The perfect finishing touch to tie all flavors together.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
2. Ensure all ingredients are well combined until smooth.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

1. Take your King’s Hawaiian rolls, slice them in half if they are not already sliced.
2. Dip each roll half into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak briefly—just enough to absorb but not fall apart.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

1. Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a generous pat of butter.
2. Once melted and bubbling, place the soaked roll halves cut-side down onto the skillet.
3. Cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 4: Serve with Maple Syrup

1. Remove from heat and transfer to plates.
2. Drizzle with pure maple syrup, adding as much as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast! This recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike with its unique flavor profile and delightful texture.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Serving your Hawaiian Roll French Toast creatively can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Classic Maple Syrup

• Drizzle warm, pure maple syrup over each slice for a traditional touch. The rich sweetness perfectly complements the cinnamon flavors.

Fresh Fruit

• Top with a mix of fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. This adds a refreshing contrast and extra nutrients to your meal.

Whipped Cream

• Lightly dollop homemade or store-bought whipped cream on top for a decadent finish. It adds an airy texture that balances the dish’s richness.

Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on the toast for added protein and flavor. The nutty taste enhances the sweetness of the rolls and syrup.

Yogurt Parfait

• Serve alongside a yogurt parfait made with layers of Greek yogurt, honey, and granola. This offers a delicious crunch and creamy texture.

Chocolate Drizzle

• For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the French toast. It adds an indulgent element that’s hard to resist!

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Perfecting your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about technique and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to ensure you create the best version possible.

• Use slightly stale rolls: Day-old rolls soak up the custard better without becoming soggy, resulting in a perfect texture.
• Whisk thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the eggs and milk well for a smooth custard that coats all sides of the bread evenly.
• Preheat your pan: Ensure your cooking surface is hot enough before adding butter. This helps achieve a golden-brown crust quickly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary; crowding can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
• Let it sit before serving: Allow the cooked French toast to rest for a minute before serving; this helps set the flavors.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cinnamon.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Crispy Hash Browns – These golden-brown potatoes provide a savory contrast to sweet French toast.
2. Eggs Any Style – Scrambled, poached, or fried eggs add protein and make your breakfast more filling.
3. Sautéed Spinach – A light sautéed spinach side brings freshness and balances out the richness of the toast.
4. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers brightness and complements the sweetness of the rolls.
5. Breakfast Sausages – Chicken or turkey sausage links provide hearty protein that pairs well with sweet dishes.
6. Granola – Serve a bowl of crunchy granola on the side for added texture and flavor without overpowering the main dish.
7. Cottage Cheese – A scoop of cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein while keeping it light.
8. Smoothie Bowl – Offer a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds as a refreshing counterpart to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using fresh rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls may not absorb the custard well. Opt for day-old rolls for better texture and flavor.
• Skipping the salt: Neglecting salt can lead to flat flavors. A pinch enhances sweetness and balances the overall taste.
• Over-soaking the rolls: Soaking too long can make the rolls soggy. Just a quick dip is enough to achieve that perfect custard coating.
• Not using enough butter: Insufficient butter can result in uneven browning. Make sure to use enough for a golden, crispy exterior.
• Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium heat is ideal for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
• It will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

• Place cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place one slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30 seconds, checking every 10 seconds until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter and warm each side of the slice for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this delicious recipe.

What is the best way to serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Serve it warm with maple syrup drizzled on top, along with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added flavor.

Can I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like berries, nuts, or even coconut flakes based on your preference.

How do I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for two months.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any preferred non-dairy alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe stands out due to its unique blend of sweetness and flavor from the rolls. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful dish!