Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish. With its soft, sweet rolls soaking up a creamy custard, this recipe is perfect for lazy weekends or special brunch gatherings. The unique flavor of the Hawaiian rolls adds an extra touch of sweetness, making every bite a delicious treat that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of fluffy rolls, rich custard, and warm toppings creates a breakfast that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, it’s a fun way to use leftover Hawaiian rolls, turning them into something special. Cooking this dish can bring family and friends together for a cozy morning meal.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Ingredients
- 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
Directions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined.
- Whisk in the vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until incorporated.
- 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 soak for 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides. Don’t soak longer or they’ll get soggy.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Cook the soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown, turning carefully with a spatula to get all sides crispy.
- Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm on a plate. Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish and add fresh fruit like berries or bananas on top. Drizzle with maple syrup for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice.
How to Store Hawaiian Roll French Toast
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a toaster or a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If you want to freeze them, wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Be careful not to soak the rolls for too long. Thirty seconds is the sweet spot to ensure they absorb the custard without getting soggy.
- Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking and make flipping easier.
- Experiment with different toppings like whipped cream, nuts, or chocolate chips for a fun twist!
Variation
Feel free to add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist or mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the custard for added texture. You can also use any type of sweet rolls if Hawaiian rolls are not available.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes! You can use any type of soft bread, but using Hawaiian rolls gives a unique sweetness that makes this dish special.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Soak the rolls just before cooking for the best results.
What should I do if my rolls are stale?
Stale rolls can work well for French toast as they absorb the custard better. Just make sure to soak them properly to ensure a moist texture.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pack 12-pack King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large large eggs
- ¾ cup half and half or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, for cooking
- Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup for serving Use as desired for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined.
- Whisk in the vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until incorporated.
- 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 soak for 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
Cooking
- Cook the soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown, turning carefully with a spatula to get all sides crispy.
- Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired.
