Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delicious twist on a breakfast classic. These soft, sweet rolls soak up a rich custard mixture and cook to golden perfection with a creamy center. The combination of crispy edges and a tender interior makes each bite truly satisfying.
This recipe is perfect for weekend brunch or a quick weekday treat. The rolls’ natural sweetness and pillowy texture set them apart, as they hold up beautifully to the custard without becoming soggy.
Topping options are endless. Fresh berries add vibrant color and a burst of flavor, while a drizzle of maple syrup enhances the sweetness. Whipped cream offers an indulgent touch, and for a tropical vibe, try shredded coconut or pineapple slices.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a guaranteed hit. It’s simple to make, fun to customize, and sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try today.
Table of Contents
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls sliced in half
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
- 2 tablespoons butter for cooking
- Powdered sugar maple syrup, and fresh fruit for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
2. Soak the Hawaiian Rolls:
- Dip each roll half into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Ensure the bread is well coated but not overly soggy.
3. Preheat the Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt until slightly bubbly.
4. Cook the French Toast:
- Place the soaked Hawaiian rolls onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
5. Serve:
- Transfer the cooked French toast to a serving plate. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and add fresh fruit if desired.
Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of orange juice or a pinch of orange zest to the egg mixture for a citrus twist.
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare the egg mixture the night before to save time in the morning.
- Storage: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster for the best results.
What Makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast Unique
A Brief History of Hawaiian Rolls
Hawaiian rolls, first popularized by the iconic King’s Hawaiian bakery, trace their roots back to the Portuguese sweet bread brought to Hawaii by immigrants. These rolls are characterized by their lightly sweet flavor, tender crumb, and buttery richness. Unlike traditional bread used for French toast, their soft, pillowy texture makes them an ideal candidate for soaking up custard mixtures without falling apart.
Sweetness and Texture Advantage
The inherent sweetness of Hawaiian rolls eliminates the need for excessive sugar in the custard. Their dense yet fluffy structure creates a French toast that is crisp on the outside and luxuriously soft inside. This balance of texture and flavor ensures every bite is decadent.
Why Use Hawaiian Rolls for French Toast?
Using Hawaiian rolls elevates the classic French toast recipe in several ways:
- Individual Portions: Their small size makes them perfect for serving as single portions or sliders.
- Even Cooking: The uniformity of rolls ensures consistent cooking and browning.
- Versatility: Hawaiian rolls pair well with both sweet and savory toppings, offering endless customization possibilities.
Ingredients Needed
Main Ingredients
To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast, gather the following:
- Hawaiian Rolls: One package (12 rolls).
- Eggs: 4 large eggs.
- Milk: 1 cup (whole milk or a milk alternative for richness).
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
- Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon, for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, for cooking.
Optional Ingredients and Toppings
Customize your French toast with these add ons:
- Maple Syrup or Honey: A classic topping for sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar: For a light, decorative finish.
- Fresh Fruits: Strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices.
- Whipped Cream: To add a touch of indulgence.
- Nutella or Peanut Butter: For a creamy, nutty twist.
- Crushed Nuts: Almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Step by Step Recipe Instructions
Preparing the Hawaiian Rolls
- Slice the Rolls:
- Take the Hawaiian rolls out of the package and separate them.
- Slice each roll in half horizontally to create two pieces per roll.
- Arrange for Soaking:
- Place the sliced rolls on a baking tray or large plate. This setup makes the soaking process easier and less messy.
Making the Custard Mixture
- Whisk the Ingredients:
- In a medium sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Optional Sweetener:
- If you prefer a sweeter base, add a tablespoon of sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup to the custard mix.
- Add a Pinch of Salt:
- To enhance the flavors, include a pinch of salt in the mixture.
Cooking the French Toast
- Heat the Pan:
- Place a non stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt completely, coating the surface evenly.
- Soak the Rolls:
- Dip each roll half into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Let excess custard drip off before placing the roll in the pan.
- Cook to Perfection:
- Cook the rolls for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
- Repeat the Process:
- Cook the remaining rolls in batches, adding more butter to the pan as needed.
Keep Warm While Finishing
- If you’re cooking a large batch, keep the finished rolls warm by placing them in an oven preheated to 200°F. This ensures every serving is hot and fresh when served.
Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Avoiding Soggy French Toast
- Don’t Over Soak the Rolls:
- Hawaiian rolls are soft and absorbent, so a quick dip in the custard mixture (3–5 seconds per side) is sufficient. Over soaking can cause the rolls to become soggy and fall apart during cooking.
- Use Stale Rolls:
- Slightly stale Hawaiian rolls work best, as they are firmer and absorb custard without becoming too soft. If your rolls are fresh, let them sit uncovered for a few hours before making the recipe.
- Cook at the Right Temperature:
- Medium heat is ideal for evenly cooked French toast. High heat can burn the outer layer before the custard inside is fully cooked.
Enhancing Flavor
- Spice It Up:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the custard for a seasonal twist.
- For a citrusy kick, include a teaspoon of orange zest in the mixture.
- Try Flavored Extracts:
- Swap out or complement the vanilla extract with almond extract, coconut extract, or even rum extract for a unique flavor profile.
- Infuse the Butter:
- Before cooking, melt the butter with a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick to infuse subtle flavors into the French toast.
Making It Crispy
- Add a Crunchy Coating:
- After dipping the rolls in the custard, coat them in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs before cooking. This adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet:
- For a perfectly caramelized surface, cook the French toast in a cast iron skillet, which retains and distributes heat evenly.
- Drizzle with Honey Before Cooking:
- Lightly drizzle honey on the rolls before cooking for a caramelized exterior.
Preparing Ahead of Time
- Pre Make the Custard:
- Mix the custard ingredients a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Shake or whisk well before using.
- Freeze for Convenience:
- Cook the Hawaiian Roll French Toast as usual, then freeze the pieces in a single layer. Reheat them in a toaster oven or on a skillet for a quick breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Toppings
- Classic Syrup and Butter:
- Fresh Fruits:
- Top with an assortment of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or banana slices for a burst of freshness.
- A sprinkle of powdered sugar over the fruit adds an elegant touch.
- Decadent Sauces:
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce, chocolate syrup, or Nutella for an indulgent breakfast or dessert option.
- Coconut cream or dulce de leche can be used to elevate the dish for special occasions.
- Savory Toppings:
- Experiment with savory combinations by adding crispy bacon, a fried egg, or a slice of smoked salmon. Pair with a light hollandaise sauce for a brunch worthy treat.
Plating Tips for Presentation
- Stack It Up:
- Stack 3–4 pieces of Hawaiian Roll French Toast on a plate for a visually appealing presentation.
- Alternate layers of French toast with fruit or whipped cream for added height and texture.
- Add a Garnish:
- Use fresh mint leaves, edible flowers, or a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder as a garnish to impress your guests.
- Serve Family Style:
- Arrange the French toast in a large serving dish with bowls of various toppings on the side, allowing everyone to customize their plates.
Pairing Beverages with French Toast
- Coffee or Espresso:
- A freshly brewed coffee or cappuccino pairs well with the sweet richness of the dish.
- Consider flavored coffee like vanilla, hazelnut, or cinnamon to enhance the experience.
- Juices and Smoothies:
- Serve with freshly squeezed orange juice, pineapple juice, or a tropical fruit smoothie for a refreshing contrast.
- Cocktails for Brunch:
- For a festive occasion, pair the dish with a mimosa, Bellini, or a fruity sangria.
Creative Serving Ideas
- French Toast Sliders:
- Assemble mini sliders using Hawaiian Roll French Toast, layering whipped cream and fruit between each roll. Perfect for parties and gatherings.
- French Toast Skewers:
- Thread pieces of French toast, fruit, and marshmallows onto skewers for a fun, portable treat.
- French Toast Casserole:
- For a crowd, transform the rolls into a baked casserole by layering them in a dish, pouring custard over the top, and baking until golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes, other types of bread can be used, such as brioche, challah, or thick sliced white bread. However, Hawaiian rolls bring a unique sweetness and soft texture that sets this recipe apart.
How can I keep the French toast from becoming soggy?
Avoid over soaking the rolls in the custard mixture. A quick dip is sufficient. Additionally, make sure your pan is properly preheated and use medium heat to cook the rolls evenly without absorbing too much moisture.
Can I make this recipe dairy free?
Absolutely. Substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. You can also use plant based butter for cooking. These swaps maintain the creamy texture while catering to dietary preferences.
Can I prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead in two ways:
- Pre Make the Custard: Mix and refrigerate the custard mixture up to a day in advance.
- Freeze Cooked French Toast: Prepare and cook the rolls, then freeze them. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet for a quick meal.
What are some alternative flavor variations?
You can customize your French toast with different flavors, such as:
- Adding orange zest and a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Incorporating cocoa powder into the custard for a chocolate version.
- Using a dash of pumpkin spice or chai spice for a seasonal touch.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes. Hawaiian Roll French Toast is an excellent option for feeding a group. You can either cook them individually or turn them into a casserole. Arrange the rolls in a baking dish, pour the custard over them, and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the French toast cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to restore its crispy texture.
Can I make a savory version?
Yes. To make a savory Hawaiian Roll French Toast, omit the vanilla and cinnamon from the custard and add a pinch of salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan. Pair with toppings like bacon, cheese, or sautéed vegetables.
For readers interested in “Hawaiian Roll French Toast,” consider exploring complementary recipes to expand your breakfast repertoire. Dive into the indulgent Cinnamon Roll French Toast for a sweet twist or enjoy the simplicity of a Pancake Recipe for One. For those looking for creative breakfast ideas, Avocado Toast with Egg is a savory option that pairs beautifully with your French toast. These links offer a blend of variety and inspiration for a delightful breakfast spread.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and creativity. The unique sweetness and softness of Hawaiian rolls elevate this classic recipe, making it perfect for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or a simple indulgent morning treat. With endless topping options and flavor variations, this dish can be tailored to suit any palate.
Whether you serve it as a family style casserole, on skewers for a party, or in its traditional form, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, grab a package of Hawaiian rolls, whip up a custard, and treat yourself to a meal that’s both comforting and elegant.
Enjoy every bite of this sweet, golden delight.