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 brunch gatherings or a cozy morning at home, this dish will elevate any breakfast table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of cinnamon and vanilla creates a comforting taste that everyone will adore.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with fresh fruit or maple syrup to customize each serving to your liking.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, this dish is ideal for family breakfasts or brunch events with friends.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavors and fun texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
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 even cooking and prevents sticking, making flipping the rolls easy.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to whisk ingredients without spills.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth custard mixture for optimal soaking of the rolls.
Ingredients
For the 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. Then whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a 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 each roll into the custard mixture and let it soak for 30 seconds on each side. Be careful not to soak them too long to avoid sogginess.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the soaked rolls into the skillet. Cook them for about 30-60 seconds on each side until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them gently for an even crispiness.
Step 4: Serve Your Creation
Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust it with powdered sugar and add fresh berries or maple syrup on top if desired. Enjoy this delightful breakfast treat!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful breakfast treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer a classic presentation or something more adventurous, these serving suggestions will elevate your brunch experience.
Classic Toppings
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup for that perfect sweet touch.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add freshness and color.
Unique Pairings
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical twist, top with homemade coconut whipped cream.
- Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for added protein and flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips on top for an indulgent treat.
Creative Combinations
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness and adds richness.
- Banana Slices: Fresh banana slices provide extra texture and flavor.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve that perfect golden-brown crust and fluffy interior.
- Use Stale Rolls: If possible, use day-old rolls for better absorption of the custard.
- Don’t Soak Too Long: Dip quickly and avoid sogginess by soaking each roll just enough to absorb the mixture.
- Control Heat: Keep your skillet at medium-low heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh eggs and good vanilla extract enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of the toast.
- Sausage Links: Flavorful sausage adds heartiness to your breakfast spread.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing side.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein alongside your sweet dish.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits keeps things light and vibrant.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns add a satisfying crunch to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Over-soaking the rolls: Soaking the rolls for too long can make them soggy. Aim for 30 seconds per side to ensure they soak up the custard without losing structure.
- Using low-quality ingredients: The flavor of your French toast relies heavily on the quality of your ingredients. Always choose fresh eggs and high-quality milk for the best results.
- Cooking at too high a temperature: Cooking on high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked. Use medium-low heat to achieve a perfect golden brown color.
- Not dusting with powdered sugar: Skipping this step means missing out on that delightful sweetness. Always finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for both taste and presentation.
- Not customizing toppings: Sticking only to syrup limits your options. Try adding fresh fruit, whipped cream, or flavored syrups for extra flavor and fun.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Container: Place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Duration: Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds per slice, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
What makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast special?
Hawaiian Roll French Toast stands out due to its fluffy texture and sweet flavor profile, making it an indulgent breakfast option that’s easy to prepare.
Can I use other types of rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes! Any soft bread like brioche or challah can work well, but they may not have the same sweetness as Hawaiian rolls.
How can I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
You can add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for extra flavor. Toppings such as caramel sauce or nuts can also enhance your dish.
Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time, store it properly, and reheat it as needed, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just a breakfast dish; it’s a delightful treat enjoyed any time of day. Its sweet flavors and pillowy texture make it versatile enough for brunch or dessert. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings and flavors – the possibilities are endless!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the ultimate breakfast indulgence, combining sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls with a rich custard mixture. This delicious French toast recipe transforms ordinary mornings into extraordinary brunch experiences. With its comforting blend of cinnamon and vanilla, each bite melts in your mouth, making it perfect for both family gatherings and cozy mornings at home. Whether served with a drizzle of maple syrup or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, this dish promises to delight everyone at the table. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an easy choice for busy days. Treat yourself to this delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pack (12 count) King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and half-and-half until well combined. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt; mix until smooth.
- Poke several holes in each roll using a toothpick or skewer. Dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds per side without soaking too long.
- Heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls for about 30-60 seconds on each side until golden brown.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar, fresh berries, or maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 83g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
