Introduction:
Imagine biting into a French toast that is pillow-soft, buttery, and infused with a touch of tropical sweetness. Hawaiian Roll French Toast takes the classic breakfast staple to a whole new level by using fluffy, subtly sweet Hawaiian rolls as the base. These aren’t your average slices of bread – their delicate texture and slight sweetness create a French toast experience that is simply irresistible.
This recipe transforms ordinary Hawaiian rolls into golden, caramelized delights with a tender, custardy interior. The small size of the rolls makes them perfect for individual servings, ideal for brunch gatherings, special breakfasts, or a fun weekend treat. Quick to prepare and even quicker to devour, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your breakfast repertoire.
Whether you’re looking for a simple yet impressive brunch dish or a delightful way to use up leftover Hawaiian rolls, this recipe is a winner. Prepare to be amazed by how effortlessly these soft, sweet rolls turn into a breakfast masterpiece that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a batch of delicious French toast ready in minutes. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous brunch cravings.
Secondly, the texture is absolutely divine. Hawaiian rolls, known for their softness and slight chew, become even more tender and melt-in-your-mouth when transformed into French toast. The contrast of the slightly crisp, caramelized exterior and the custardy interior is simply heavenly.
Thirdly, the subtle sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls perfectly complements the classic French toast flavors. You don’t need to overload the custard with sugar, as the rolls themselves provide a delightful base sweetness. This balance makes it a treat that’s satisfying without being overly sugary.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To create these pillowy and flavorful Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need a short list of simple, readily available ingredients. Each component plays a key role in achieving the perfect texture and taste. Let’s gather everything required to bring this recipe to life in your kitchen.
For the star of the dish, you’ll need one package of Hawaiian sweet rolls (usually around 12 rolls). Hawaiian rolls are essential for this recipe, providing the signature sweetness and soft texture. Look for brands like King’s Hawaiian or similar sweet roll varieties.
To create the rich and flavorful custard, you’ll need 4 large eggs. Eggs are the base of the custard, providing structure, richness, and binding power. Large eggs ensure the right ratio of liquid to solids for the perfect custard consistency.
For the liquid component of the custard, you’ll need 1/2 cup of milk (whole milk or half-and-half recommended). Milk adds moisture to the custard and contributes to the creamy texture of the French toast. Whole milk or half-and-half will result in a richer and more decadent French toast.
Adding sweetness to complement the rolls and custard, you’ll need 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Granulated sugar enhances the sweetness of the French toast and helps with caramelization during cooking. The amount is balanced to complement the rolls without being overly sweet.
For aromatic warmth and classic French toast flavor, you’ll need 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a warm and comforting note. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor.
To add a hint of spice and depth of flavor, you’ll need 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional, but recommended). Cinnamon adds a warm spice note that complements the sweetness and butteriness of the French toast. It’s a classic French toast spice that elevates the flavor.
For cooking and browning the French toast, you’ll need 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Butter is essential for cooking French toast, providing flavor, richness, and helping to create a golden brown, slightly crispy exterior. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the recipe.
For serving and adding a final touch of sweetness, you’ll need powdered sugar (for dusting, optional). Powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful, elegant finish. It’s a classic topping for French toast and enhances the visual appeal.
And for serving, you’ll need your favorite syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or other toppings (optional, for serving). Toppings allow for customization and enhance the flavor and enjoyment of the French toast. Syrup, fresh fruit, and whipped cream are classic and delicious choices.
HOW TO MAKE “Hawaiian Roll French Toast”:
Crafting these delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a simple and quick process, perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. Follow these easy steps to transform your Hawaiian rolls into golden, custardy treats.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Begin by preparing the custard mixture. In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (if using). Whisk until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. A shallow dish makes dipping the rolls easier, and thorough whisking ensures a smooth custard.
Gently dip each Hawaiian roll into the custard mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. Dip quickly, as Hawaiian rolls are very absorbent and can become soggy if soaked for too long. A quick dip ensures the rolls are coated but don’t become overly saturated and fall apart.
Melt butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and evenly coat the bottom of the skillet or griddle. Medium heat is ideal for cooking French toast – it allows for even browning without burning.
Place the custard-coated Hawaiian rolls onto the hot skillet or griddle. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature and result in steaming instead of browning.
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip the rolls gently with a spatula and cook the other side until golden brown and the inside is cooked through and no longer eggy. Hawaiian rolls cook quickly due to their size and soft texture; watch them closely to prevent burning.
Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or plate. A wire rack helps prevent the bottoms of the French toast from becoming soggy by allowing air circulation.
Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Hawaiian Roll French Toast is best enjoyed warm and fresh. Serve immediately with syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or any other toppings you desire. Enjoy your fluffy and flavorful Hawaiian Roll French Toast!
USEFUL TIPS:
To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips and techniques. These suggestions are designed to enhance the flavor, texture, and overall success of your dish.
Don’t soak the Hawaiian rolls for too long in the custard. Hawaiian rolls are very absorbent and can become soggy quickly. Dip each roll briefly, just long enough to coat all sides, then immediately transfer to the hot skillet. Quick dipping prevents mushy French toast.
Use softened butter for cooking to ensure even browning. Softened butter melts evenly in the skillet, creating a consistent cooking surface and promoting even browning of the French toast. Ensure the skillet is hot and the butter is melted before adding the custard-soaked rolls.
Cook over medium heat to prevent burning and ensure the inside cooks through. Medium heat allows the outside of the French toast to brown nicely while giving the inside enough time to cook through without burning the exterior. Adjust heat as needed to maintain even browning and prevent scorching.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet lowers the temperature and can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cooking in batches ensures each piece of French toast has enough space to brown properly and cook evenly.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard mixture. Nutmeg complements cinnamon and vanilla, adding a warm spice note that enhances the flavor of the French toast. A small pinch of nutmeg can elevate the overall flavor profile.
If you prefer a richer custard, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. Half-and-half or heavy cream will create a richer, more decadent custard base, resulting in a creamier and more indulgent French toast. Adjust milk/cream ratio to your preference for richness.
For a crispy exterior, cook the French toast slightly longer on each side and use a higher heat (but watch carefully to avoid burning). Cooking at a slightly higher heat for a bit longer will create a crispier, more caramelized exterior. Monitor closely and reduce heat if browning too quickly.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. French toast is best enjoyed fresh and warm, right after cooking. The texture is most delightful when served immediately, as it is at its crispiest on the outside and custardy on the inside.
Get creative with toppings: fresh fruit, berries, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or different syrups. Toppings are a great way to customize and enhance your French toast. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorites and cater to different tastes.
DETAILS:
Let’s delve into the specific details of preparing this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Understanding these details will help you plan your breakfast or brunch preparation effectively and ensure perfectly executed French toast every time.
Prep Time + Time
The active preparation time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes. This includes whisking the custard ingredients and melting butter in the skillet. The minimal prep time makes this recipe perfect for quick and easy breakfasts or brunches.
Cooking Time
The cooking time for this French toast is approximately 5-7 minutes per batch (depending on batch size and skillet size). Each side of the French toast cooks for about 2-3 minutes, making the cooking process very quick and efficient.
Total Time
The total time from start to finish, including both prep and cooking, is approximately 15-17 minutes. This incredibly short total time makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast an ideal choice for a fast yet satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Yield
This recipe yields approximately 12 pieces of French toast, based on a standard package of Hawaiian rolls. This is generally enough to serve 4-6 people, depending on serving sizes and appetites. The yield is directly related to the number of rolls in your package.
Category
This recipe falls into the category of breakfast and brunch. Specifically, it is a variation of French toast, a classic breakfast and brunch dish. Its classification is straightforward, clearly fitting into the breakfast and brunch meal category.
Method
The cooking method for this recipe is pan-frying or griddling. The French toast is cooked in a skillet or on a griddle with melted butter, creating a golden brown exterior. Pan-frying is the primary method for cooking and browning the custard-soaked Hawaiian rolls.
Cuisine
The cuisine for this dish is generally considered American breakfast or brunch with a Hawaiian twist due to the use of Hawaiian rolls. While French toast is a classic dish with European origins, this variation incorporates Hawaiian rolls, giving it a unique and localized flavor profile. It blends classic French toast preparation with Hawaiian roll ingredients.
Diet
This recipe is generally considered vegetarian. It does not contain meat, poultry, or fish. However, it is not vegan or dairy-free as it contains eggs, milk, and butter. It is also not particularly low-carb or low-sugar due to the bread and sugar content. For dietary modifications, see the “NOTES” section.
NOTES:
To further customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast and cater to different preferences or dietary needs, consider these additional notes and recipe variations. These suggestions offer flexibility and inspiration for making this recipe truly your own.
For a richer, more spiced custard, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with cinnamon. Nutmeg and cardamom complement cinnamon and vanilla, adding layers of warm spice and aromatic complexity to the custard. Use spices sparingly to enhance the flavor without overpowering it.
To incorporate citrus notes, add orange or lemon zest to the custard mixture. Citrus zest brightens the flavor profile, adding a refreshing and zesty element that complements the sweetness and richness. Use fresh zest for the most vibrant aroma and flavor.
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free milk alternatives such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, and use vegan butter for cooking. Dairy-free milk alternatives work well in French toast custard, and vegan butter substitutes can provide a similar richness to dairy butter. Ensure all toppings are also dairy-free if needed.
To make it slightly less sweet, reduce the granulated sugar in the custard to 1 tablespoon or omit it entirely. Hawaiian rolls are already subtly sweet, so reducing or omitting added sugar can balance the overall sweetness, depending on your preference.
For a fun presentation for kids, cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally before dipping and cooking to create mini French toast bites. Mini French toast bites are easier for kids to handle and eat and can be a fun and visually appealing presentation. They also cook even quicker due to their smaller size.
To add a crunchy element, sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) on top of the French toast while cooking, pressing them gently into the custard. Nuts add a textural contrast and nutty flavor that complements the soft French toast. Toast the nuts lightly before chopping for enhanced flavor and crunch.
For a make-ahead tip, whisk together the custard mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply dip and cook the Hawaiian rolls as directed. Preparing the custard in advance saves time in the morning and allows the flavors to meld together overnight.
To keep French toast warm while cooking batches, place cooked French toast on a wire rack in a preheated oven set to 200°F (95°C). Keeping cooked French toast warm in a low oven maintains its temperature and texture while you finish cooking subsequent batches, ensuring everything is served hot.
For a savory-sweet twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the cooked French toast before serving. A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness and buttery flavor, creating a balanced savory-sweet profile that can be surprisingly delicious. Coarse sea salt provides both flavor and a pleasant textural crunch.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Let’s address some common questions you might have while preparing Hawaiian Roll French Toast. These answers are designed to clarify any potential uncertainties and ensure a smooth and successful French toast-making experience.
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
While Hawaiian rolls are the star of this recipe, you can use other soft, slightly sweet breads like brioche rolls, challah rolls, or even slider buns. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly depending on the bread’s density and texture. Hawaiian rolls provide the best texture and flavor for this specific recipe, but alternatives can work in a pinch.
Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
French toast is generally best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it slightly ahead of time. Cook the French toast and keep it warm in a low oven (200°F/95°C) on a wire rack for up to 20-30 minutes. Reheating cooked French toast is not recommended as it can become tough or soggy.
Why is my French toast soggy?
Soggy French toast is usually caused by soaking the bread for too long in the custard or cooking at too low a temperature. Hawaiian rolls absorb liquid quickly, so dip them only briefly. Ensure your skillet or griddle is hot enough and cook over medium heat to properly brown and cook the custard without making the bread soggy.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Freezing cooked French toast is possible but may slightly alter the texture. Allow the cooked French toast to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster oven or oven until heated through and crisp. Texture may be slightly less optimal after freezing and thawing.
What are good toppings for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Classic toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, and sliced bananas are always delicious. You can also try fruit compotes, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, Nutella, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar. Get creative and experiment with different toppings to personalize your French toast.
Can I make a larger batch of custard for more French toast?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the custard recipe to make a larger batch for more French toast. Simply multiply all the custard ingredients proportionally to match the number of Hawaiian rolls you are using. Ensure you have a large enough dish or bowl for dipping and a large enough cooking surface to cook in batches.
Is it necessary to use cinnamon in the custard?
Cinnamon is optional but recommended for adding a warm, classic French toast flavor. If you don’t like cinnamon, you can omit it or substitute with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or simply enjoy the vanilla-flavored French toast. Cinnamon enhances the flavor but is not strictly necessary.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Proper storage is important to maintain the quality and flavor of your leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast, although it is truly best enjoyed fresh. Follow these guidelines if you have leftovers to store.
To store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast, allow it to cool completely to room temperature after cooking. Storing warm French toast can trap moisture and lead to sogginess. Ensure the French toast is fully cooled before placing it in storage containers.
Place the cooled French toast in an airtight container. Layer the French toast in a single layer if possible to prevent sticking. If you need to stack layers, place parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking and sogginess. Airtight storage helps maintain the texture and prevent drying out.
Store the French toast in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Leftover French toast is best consumed within this timeframe for optimal texture and flavor. While it may be safe to eat slightly longer, the texture can become less desirable after a few days.
Reheat leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in a toaster oven or oven for the best results. To reheat in a toaster oven or oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy. Oven or toaster oven reheating helps crisp up the exterior and avoid sogginess that can occur with microwaving.
Microwaving leftover French toast is not recommended as it can make it soggy. If you must microwave, do so in short intervals and watch carefully to avoid over-softening. Toaster oven or oven reheating is strongly preferred for better texture.
Consume reheated French toast promptly after reheating. Reheated French toast is best enjoyed immediately after reheating to prevent it from becoming soggy again. It will not be quite as perfect as freshly made, but reheating can still provide a satisfying second serving.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you are sure to love these other equally delicious and comforting breakfast and brunch recipes. These recipes share similar qualities of being easy to make, perfect for special mornings, and incredibly satisfying to eat.
If you liked this recipe, you will surely enjoy these other brunch treats:
Classic French Toast: The quintessential French toast recipe, using slices of sturdy bread like brioche or challah, offering a slightly denser and more traditional texture compared to Hawaiian roll French toast. Classic French Toast is a must-know recipe, providing a baseline for all French toast variations, and is easily customizable with different breads and flavorings.
Berry French Toast Bake: A baked French toast casserole filled with mixed berries, perfect for feeding a crowd and make-ahead brunch. Berry French Toast Bake simplifies serving French toast to a larger group, offering a convenient and flavorful casserole format that’s bursting with fruity goodness. It’s ideal for potlucks and holiday brunches.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole: Combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls and French toast in a delicious and easy-to-make casserole, offering a sweeter and more indulgent brunch option. Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole brings together two breakfast favorites in one dish, creating a decadent and crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for special occasions.
Crème brûlée French Toast: A gourmet twist on French toast, featuring thick slices of bread soaked in a rich custard and caramelized sugar topping, offering a crispy and creamy texture contrast. Crème brûlée French Toast elevates French toast to a dessert-like experience with its rich custard and satisfyingly crunchy caramelized sugar topping. It’s a special occasion brunch dish that’s sure to impress.
Savory French Toast with Herbs and Cheese: A departure from sweet French toast, this savory version is flavored with herbs and cheese, offering a delicious and satisfying savory breakfast or brunch option. Savory French Toast provides a welcome alternative to sweet breakfasts, showcasing the versatility of French toast and offering a savory, herb-infused option that’s perfect for those who prefer less sweetness.
CONCLUSION
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a celebration of simple pleasures, transforming humble Hawaiian rolls into a fluffy, golden, and utterly delightful morning treat. Its ease of preparation, combined with its incredibly delicious texture and subtly sweet flavor, makes it a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weekday breakfast to a leisurely weekend brunch.
From the pillowy soft interior to the slightly caramelized exterior, every bite of Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. Whether you serve it dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with syrup, or piled high with fresh fruit, this French toast is guaranteed to bring smiles and start any day on a sweet and satisfying note. The joy of this recipe lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its effortless preparation and universal appeal.
So, gather your Hawaiian rolls, eggs, and butter, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey to create this incredibly easy and delightful breakfast classic. It’s a recipe that promises to bring warmth to your kitchen, joy to your table, and sweet, memorable moments to your mornings. Embrace the simplicity and savor every fluffy, buttery bite of Hawaiian Roll French Toast – it’s a recipe that will surely become a beloved favorite in your breakfast repertoire.
