Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, using sweet and fluffy Hawaiian rolls to create a rich and indulgent meal. The unique sweetness of the rolls adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or brunch.

FULL RECIPE:

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, and maple syrup, for serving

Directions

Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt, whisking until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Prep the Rolls: Using a toothpick or skewer, poke several holes in the bottom of each Hawaiian roll. This allows the custard to penetrate the bread, ensuring a flavorful and moist French toast.
Soak the Rolls: Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds. Turn the rolls to ensure all sides are coated, but avoid over-soaking to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
Cook the Rolls: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls onto the skillet, cooking each side for 30-60 seconds until golden brown. Use a spatula to turn the rolls carefully, ensuring all sides are evenly cooked.
Serve: Once cooked, transfer the French toast rolls to a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries if desired. Serve warm with maple syrup on the side.

Nutrients

Calories: Approximately 273 kcal per serving
Carbohydrates: 31 g
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Sugar: 15 g
Sodium: 324 mg

What Makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast Special?

Traditional French toast is typically made with bread such as brioche, challah, or Texas toast, but using Hawaiian rolls brings an entirely new flavor profile to the dish. These rolls are naturally sweeter and softer, making them perfect for absorbing the custard mixture without falling apart. The slight hint of honey and a buttery texture enhances the overall richness of the dish, creating a satisfying balance between sweetness and savoriness. Another reason this dish stands out is its versatility. It can be made for a cozy breakfast at home, a brunch gathering with friends, or even as a quick yet indulgent dessert. The small, individual rolls make it easier to serve, allowing each piece to have its own crispy, caramelized edges and a perfectly soft inside.

The Perfect Custard for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

The secret to achieving a restaurant-quality French toast lies in the custard. A good custard base consists of eggs, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Some recipes include brown sugar or nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor. The addition of vanilla and cinnamon gives the dish a warm, aromatic touch, making it feel like a comforting treat. Hawaiian rolls are particularly absorbent, which means they soak up the custard quickly. Unlike denser breads, they don’t require prolonged soaking; a quick dip is enough to ensure the perfect texture. If left in the custard for too long, the rolls can become too soggy and may fall apart during cooking. The key is to find the right balance—allowing the rolls to absorb just enough liquid to make them flavorful without losing their structure.

Cooking Techniques for the Best French Toast

Cooking Hawaiian Roll French Toast properly ensures the best texture and flavor. Using a nonstick skillet or a griddle with butter is ideal for achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside soft and custardy. Cooking on medium-low heat allows the toast to cook evenly without burning the outside before the inside is fully done. Another trick to enhance the flavor is to cook the rolls in a bit of butter and brown sugar towards the end. This step creates a slightly caramelized crust that adds a rich depth of flavor to the already delicious rolls. Some people also like to sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on the rolls while cooking, giving them an extra sweet crunch.

Serving Suggestions and Toppings

The beauty of Hawaiian Roll French Toast is that it pairs well with a variety of toppings. Classic choices include powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. If you want to take it up a notch, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can add a dessert-like quality to the dish. For those who enjoy a contrast of flavors, serving this dish with crispy bacon or sausage provides a delightful sweet-and-savory combination. The saltiness of the bacon balances the sweetness of the French toast, making each bite even more satisfying. A sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped nuts can also add a bit of texture and extra flavor.

Variations and Creative Twists

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. If you want a richer version, using heavy cream instead of milk makes the custard even more decadent. For a healthier option, substituting coconut milk or almond milk can provide a unique taste while reducing dairy content. For a stuffed variation, try slicing the Hawaiian rolls in half and adding a filling before dipping them in the custard. Cream cheese and fruit preserves, Nutella, or peanut butter and bananas are fantastic options for a stuffed French toast twist. You can also sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or granola on top for added crunch. Another fun way to prepare this dish is by turning it into a casserole. Instead of individually dipping and frying each roll, place them in a baking dish, pour the custard mixture over them, and bake until golden brown. This method is great for serving a crowd and requires less hands-on cooking time.

Pairing Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Drinks

To complete your breakfast or brunch, pairing Hawaiian Roll French Toast with the right drink enhances the overall dining experience. A hot cup of coffee or a latte complements the sweetness of the dish beautifully. For a lighter option, fresh orange juice or a fruit smoothie provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For a special brunch occasion, a mimosa or a sparkling fruit beverage can elevate the meal to a more elegant level. If serving for kids, a warm mug of hot chocolate or a vanilla-flavored milkshake makes the breakfast feel even more indulgent.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just a breakfast dish—it’s a treat that can be enjoyed for multiple occasions. Whether you are making a weekend breakfast for your family, preparing a brunch spread for friends, or looking for a quick and delicious dessert, this recipe delivers every time. Its simplicity and versatility make it an excellent go-to dish that requires minimal ingredients but offers maximum flavor. This recipe is also great for special celebrations like birthdays, Mother’s Day, or holiday mornings. The small, individual portions make it easy to serve a group without much hassle. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and simply warmed up before serving, making it convenient for busy mornings.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, offering a rich, custardy texture combined with the unique sweetness of Hawaiian rolls. The soft yet crispy texture, the warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, and the endless topping possibilities make this dish a must-try. Whether you enjoy it traditionally with syrup and fruit, or take it up a notch with creative fillings and toppings, this French toast variation is sure to impress. From its easy preparation to its luxurious taste, Hawaiian Roll French Toast proves that simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your home, enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. Try it for your next breakfast or brunch, and experience the deliciousness of this irresistible dish.

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