If you have a soft spot for something sweet, cozy, and a little out of the ordinary, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is about to become your new go-to brunch favorite. Imagine fluffy, slightly sweet rolls soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard, pan-fried to golden perfection. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tender, buttery bread with a hint of tropical sweetness from the unique Hawaiian rolls. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet totally achievable, guaranteed to brighten up any morning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe comes together with just a handful of basic ingredients, each playing its part in creating a mouthwatering, colorful dish. From the buttery richness of the rolls to the warm spices and creamy custard, every component adds layers of flavor and delightful texture.
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: These soft, slightly sweet rolls are the star, giving French toast a unique fluff and tropical sweetness you won’t find in regular bread.
- Large eggs: Eggs form the custard base, binding flavors and creating that luscious, rich coating for the rolls.
- Half-and-half (or whole milk): Adds creaminess that helps the custard soak into the rolls deeply without making them soggy.
- Vanilla extract: Gives the custard a fragrant warmth that enhances the sweetness and cinnamon notes.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds cozy spice that pairs perfectly with the soft rolls and sugar.
- Brown sugar: Infuses the custard with caramel-like sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor profile.
- Butter (for cooking): Essential for crisping up the rolls in the skillet with a golden, buttery crust.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Start by whisking together eggs and half-and-half in a large bowl until they form a smooth blend. To this, add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything gently until the custard is smooth, creamy, and fragrant. This mixture is what will soak into the rolls to deliver that rich, cinnamon-vanilla flavor in every bite.
Step 2: Prep the Rolls for Soaking
Grab your King’s Hawaiian rolls and, using a toothpick or skewer, poke several holes in the bottom of each roll. This simple technique allows the custard to seep deep inside without making the exterior too soggy, ensuring every bite is custardy and soft throughout.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls in Custard
Dip each roll into the custard mixture and let it soak for about 30 seconds per side. Be mindful not to over-soak them; you want the rolls to absorb ample custard while still holding their shape so they cook beautifully in the skillet.
Step 4: Cook the Rolls
Heat butter over medium-low heat in a nonstick skillet until melted and fragrant. Place the soaked rolls carefully in the skillet and cook each side for 30 to 60 seconds, or until they develop a gorgeously golden brown crust. The butter will create a crispy exterior that contrasts deliciously with the tender interior.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once cooked, serve the rolls hot off the skillet. Dust with powdered sugar and top with your favorite fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or anything else that makes your heart happy. This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe shines best when enjoyed warm and freshly cooked.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, think beyond just syrup. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds visual appeal and gentle sweetness, while fresh berries or banana slices can add a juicy burst and vibrant color. For a decadent touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of coconut cream will complement those tropical notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance richness. Consider crispy bacon or sausage for savory contrast, or a light fruit salad that keeps the meal feeling fresh and lively. Even a small glass of fresh orange juice or coffee enhances the overall experience with a refreshing touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress friends or family by arranging the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe rolls in a circular platter, topping with colorful fruits, and adding edible flowers for a playful, vibrant look. You can even skewer the rolls on sticks for easy handling at brunch parties, turning these little delights into a fun finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, preserving much of their texture and flavor so you can enjoy a convenient breakfast the next morning.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked rolls by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When stored this way, they’ll keep well for up to 1 month, allowing you to savor this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe anytime without fuss.
Reheating
To reheat your leftover or frozen rolls, pop them in a toaster oven or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the texture rubbery instead of delightfully tender and golden.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
While regular bread works for classic French toast, Hawaiian rolls add a unique, slightly sweet flavor and extra fluffiness that sets this recipe apart. You can certainly try swapping the bread, but the taste and texture will differ.
Is it okay to use milk instead of half-and-half?
Yes! If you don’t have half-and-half, whole milk is a great substitute that still yields a creamy custard. The richness might be slightly lighter, but the flavors remain delicious.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
Poking holes in the rolls before soaking them helps the custard penetrate without saturating the outside too much. Also, limit soaking time to about 30 seconds per side to keep them perfect for cooking.
Can I prepare the custard mixture ahead of time?
You can mix the custard ingredients the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a gentle whisk before using to ensure it’s smooth and well combined.
What toppings work best with Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe?
Maple syrup, fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries, powdered sugar, whipped cream, and even toasted coconut all complement these rolls beautifully. Feel free to get creative and mix and match toppings to find your favorite combination.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is a delicious twist on a classic that brings bright flavors and comforting textures right to your breakfast table. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, it’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. I promise, once you try it, Hawaiian rolls will never just be dinner rolls again!
Print
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a delightful twist on classic French toast with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe. Soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls are soaked in a rich custard mixture flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar, then pan-cooked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make breakfast treat serves six and is perfect for a cozy morning or special brunch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pack (12 rolls) 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)
Instructions
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-and-half until fully combined. Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the custard is smooth and well incorporated.
- Poke Rolls for Absorption: Using a toothpick or skewer, poke holes in the bottom of each King’s Hawaiian roll. This step helps the custard soak deeply into the rolls for maximum flavor.
- Soak the Rolls: Dip each roll into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Be careful not to over-soak to avoid sogginess.
- Cook the Rolls: Heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted and hot, place the soaked rolls in the skillet. Cook each side for 30 to 60 seconds until they are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Serve: Serve the warm Hawaiian Roll French Toast rolls immediately, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by your favorite toppings such as fresh berries or maple syrup for a delicious breakfast treat.
Notes
- Use King’s Hawaiian rolls for their sweet flavor and soft texture; other sweet rolls may alter the final taste.
- Do not over-soak the rolls to prevent them from becoming too soggy and difficult to cook evenly.
- You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk for a lighter version.
- Optional toppings include powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup, or whipped cream.
- Ensure the skillet is at medium-low heat to allow the rolls to cook through without burning.
