Hawaiian Roll French Toast

If you’re looking for a unique twist on classic French toast, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a must-try! This indulgent breakfast treat uses soft and sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls as the base, giving you a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a special occasion. The rolls soak up a rich custard made with eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar, then cook to golden perfection for a crispy exterior and tender inside. Whether you serve it with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or maple syrup, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 12-pack of 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
• A pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons butter for cooking
• Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and maple syrup for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half (or whole milk) until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. Whisk until all ingredients are incorporated.
2. Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each Hawaiian roll. This will allow the custard mixture to soak in better.
3. Working in batches, dip the rolls into the custard mixture, ensuring each roll is coated and let it soak for 30 seconds. Be careful not to soak the rolls for too long, or they may become soggy.
4. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
5. Cook the soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown. Carefully flip them using a spatula to get all sides crispy and evenly cooked.
6. Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with fresh berries and maple syrup for the ultimate indulgence.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

1. Top with Fresh Fruits: Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make a beautiful and refreshing topping for Hawaiian Roll French Toast. You can also add sliced bananas or citrus fruits for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Drizzle with Syrup: Maple syrup is a classic choice, but you can also try flavored syrups like honey or caramel for a sweet twist.
3. Sprinkle with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely finish to your French toast, making it even more tempting.
4. Add Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, top your French toast with a dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
5. Pair with Savory Sides: For a balanced meal, serve with crispy bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs to complement the sweetness of the French toast.

Storage Tips:

1. Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast, allow it to cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, place the French toast on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side.
3. Freezing: If you want to store French toast for a longer period, you can freeze the individual pieces. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pieces to a freezer bag or airtight container and store for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

By following these tips, you can enjoy Hawaiian Roll French Toast at its best, whether freshly made or reheated for a quick and delicious breakfast!

Variations

1. Stuffed Hawaiian Roll French Toast: For an extra indulgent twist, slice each roll in half and stuff it with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves before dipping in the custard. This adds a creamy filling that makes every bite extra decadent.
2. Coconut Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Add a tropical flair by mixing some shredded coconut into the custard or sprinkling it on the French toast while cooking. The coconut gives a nice crunch and complements the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
3. Cinnamon Roll French Toast: To enhance the cinnamon flavor, swirl in a bit of cinnamon sugar into the custard mixture before dipping the rolls. You can even add a drizzle of cream cheese glaze on top for a cinnamon roll-inspired finish.
4. Chocolate Chip Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Stir some mini chocolate chips into the custard or sprinkle them on top after cooking. The chocolate will melt slightly, creating gooey pockets of sweetness that pair wonderfully with the soft rolls.
5. Pumpkin Spice Hawaiian Roll French Toast: For a fall-inspired variation, add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the custard mixture. This will give your French toast a cozy, seasonal flavor that’s perfect for autumn breakfasts.
6. Banana Foster Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Add sliced bananas and a bit of dark rum (if desired) to the skillet while cooking the French toast. Top with caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent twist on the classic.
7. Peanut Butter & Jelly Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Spread peanut butter and your favorite jelly between the slices of the rolls before dipping them into the custard mixture. This variation turns your French toast into a nostalgic, sandwich-inspired treat.
8. Berry Compote Topping: Instead of using fresh berries, make a quick berry compote by simmering mixed berries with a little sugar and lemon juice until thickened. Spoon over the French toast for an extra burst of flavor.
9. Savory Hawaiian Roll French Toast: For a savory version, omit the sugar and cinnamon from the custard mixture. Add a pinch of salt and pepper instead. After cooking, top with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage.
10. Vegan Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Use dairy-free milk (like almond or oat milk) and a flax or chia egg substitute in place of the regular eggs. You can also use dairy-free butter for cooking, making it a plant-based version of the classic French toast.

These variations are perfect for experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, allowing you to enjoy Hawaiian Roll French Toast in multiple exciting ways!

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of rolls for this recipe? While King’s Hawaiian Rolls give this French toast a sweet, soft texture, you can experiment with other types of rolls or bread. Brioche, challah, or even sweet bread would work well, but the flavor may differ.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls and ensure that all other ingredients, like the custard and toppings, are gluten-free as well.
3. Can I prepare the custard mixture ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good whisk before using it, as the ingredients may separate.
4. How can I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy? Be careful not to soak the rolls for too long. About 30 seconds per side should be enough for the custard to soak in without making them soggy. If you’re worried about sogginess, you can also lightly toast the rolls before dipping them.
5. Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe? Absolutely! You can substitute the half-and-half or whole milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Choose an unsweetened version for the best results.
6. How do I store leftovers? Leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet or the microwave.
7. Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Yes, you can freeze the cooked French toast. Place it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer it to a freezer bag once frozen. Reheat in a toaster or oven for a crispy texture.
8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it’s best to serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh, you can prepare the custard mixture and slice the rolls ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, just dip and cook them as directed.
9. What toppings can I use? You can top Hawaiian Roll French Toast with a variety of options like powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
10. How do I make the French toast extra crispy? To achieve a crispier texture, increase the heat slightly and cook the French toast for a few extra seconds per side, being careful not to burn it. You can also use a bit of oil in addition to butter to help with the crispiness.

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe takes a classic favorite and gives it a sweet and tropical twist with the softness and sweetness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls. It’s the perfect way to indulge in a special breakfast that’s simple yet packed with flavor. Whether you’re treating yourself or entertaining guests, this dish will impress everyone at the table. Try it today and savor every bite of this delicious, easy-to-make breakfast delight!

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