Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Name: Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 12 Hawaiian rolls; 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Butter for cooking; Powdered sugar for serving; Fresh strawberries for serving; Syrup for serving

Imagine waking up to the aroma of sweet, buttery goodness wafting through your kitchen. If there’s one dish that elevates the humble breakfast to a whole new level, it’s Hawaiian Roll French Toast. This delightful dish combines the soft, pillowy sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with a creamy batter, creating a breakfast experience that feels both decadent and comforting. You’ll find yourself and your loved ones going back for seconds, even thirds!

Why Make This Recipe

Transform regular breakfast into a tropical delight.
Perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence.
Quick to prepare, making mornings feel less rushed and more enjoyable.

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a piece of paradise that brings smiles and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, this recipe will have everyone raving about it.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Creating a delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only straightforward but also fun! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you achieve the best results:

Step 1: Prepare the Rolls

Start with 12 delightful Hawaiian rolls. Slice them in half and arrange them neatly in a baking dish. You want them to fit snugly but not overcrowded; this allows for even soaking in the egg mixture.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, add 4 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these ingredients together until everything is well combined. The smell of cinnamon and vanilla will lift your spirits as you prepare the batter.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sliced rolls, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press down on the rolls, helping them absorb the mixture.

Step 4: Let It Soak

Once all the rolls are coated, let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the rolls to soak up the flavors, ensuring that each bite is rich and creamy.

Step 5: Heat the Skillet

While the rolls are soaking, melt a generous amount of butter in a skillet over medium heat. The butter should bubble slightly but not burn, providing a perfect cooking surface for your French toast.

Step 6: Cook to Perfection

Carefully transfer the soaked rolls to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they’re a beautiful golden brown. Flip them gently and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. The secret lies in the perfect timing; you want that lovely golden color without undercooking or burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the French toast warm, topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar, fresh strawberries, and a drizzle of syrup. The contrast of flavors and textures is simply irresistible!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

If you find yourself with some leftovers (which is unlikely!), here are some effective storage recommendations:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days at 40°F.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze pieces individually in freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheat: To enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave or place in a toaster oven until warmed through. This will help maintain that delightful texture.

Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

There are countless ways to elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience:

Fruit Medley: Add sliced bananas, blueberries, or even a sprinkle of nuts for extra texture.
Flavor Variations: Substitute maple syrup with coconut syrup or a homemade berry compote for a tropical twist.
Beverage Pairings: Serve with fresh-squeezed orange juice or a coconut milk latte for a complete brunch experience.
Savory Addition: For those who love a savory touch, consider adding crispy bacon or sausage links on the side.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your liking each time you make it.

Tips to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Use Fresh Rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls yield better texture and flavor.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the egg mixture for a unique twist.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your French toast right after cooking for that warm, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Variations or Substitutions

Transform your Hawaiian Roll French Toast by making a few quick swaps:

Alternative Bread: If Hawaiian rolls aren’t available, brioche or challah are excellent substitutes.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
Addins: Incorporate chocolate chips or shredded coconut into the egg mixture for a sweeter treat.

If you prefer a less sweet approach, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or basil as a garnish, adding complexity to the dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the rolls and soak them in the egg mixture the night before. Simply cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just cook them in the skillet, and you’ll have a quick breakfast ready to go.

Q: What should I do if I want a crunchier texture?
A: For added crunch, try finishing the French toast in the oven at 400°F for a few minutes after cooking. This will give the exterior an extra crisp.

Q: Is this recipe scalable?
A: Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. Just make sure you have a sufficiently large skillet or cook them in batches.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: For gluten-free Hawaiian Roll French Toast, use gluten-free Hawaiian rolls and ensure that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Nutritional Information

While the exact nutritional values can vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving based on standard ingredients:

Calories: 300
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 12g
Sugars: 5g

This French toast can be enjoyed guilt-free, especially when paired with fresh fruit.

What to Serve With Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with:

Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt makes a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
Smoothies: Create a fresh berry or tropical fruit smoothie to accompany your breakfast.
Egg Dishes: A light scrambled egg or frittata makes for a great savory side for a brunch spread.

Pro Tips for Perfect French Toast

Success in making French toast comes down to some fundamental tricks. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Don’t Rush the Soaking: Let the rolls absorb the egg mixture for enough time to ensure they’re moist throughout.
Low and Slow: If you’re cooking multiple batches, keep the cooked French toast warm in an oven set to low while you finish the rest.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t shy away from trying new toppings. Whether it’s whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, there are no rules to making it your own!

In conclusion, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is more than just breakfast. It’s a culinary hug that brings joy to your mornings. With its soft texture, sweet flavor, and limitless toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather around the breakfast table, whip up this delightful dish, and let the smiles begin!