Hawaiian Roll French Toast: The Ultimate Breakfast Recipe

Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Prepare to experience a breakfast revelation! Imagine sinking your teeth into fluffy, golden-brown French toast, infused with the subtly sweet and undeniably addictive flavor of Hawaiian rolls. This isn’t your average French toast; it’s a delightful twist on a classic that will have everyone begging for seconds.

While French toast itself boasts a rich history, dating back to Roman times, the addition of Hawaiian rolls is a more modern innovation. These soft, slightly sweet rolls, often associated with luaus and island-inspired cuisine, bring a unique character to this beloved breakfast staple. Their pillowy texture soaks up the custard beautifully, creating an incredibly tender and flavorful French toast experience.

What makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The slightly crisp exterior gives way to a melt-in-your-mouth interior, while the subtle sweetness of the rolls complements the richness of the custard. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a special weekend brunch treat or a quick and satisfying weekday breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to transform ordinary Hawaiian rolls into an extraordinary culinary delight!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 package (12 count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), whipped cream, chopped nuts, coconut flakes

Preparing the Custard:

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is whip up that delicious custard that will soak into our Hawaiian rolls. This is where the magic happens, so pay close attention!

1. Crack the Eggs: In a large bowl, crack all 6 of your large eggs. Make sure you don’t get any shell fragments in there! Nobody wants crunchy French toast.
2. Whisk in the Dairy: Add the 1 cup of milk and the 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the bowl with the eggs. The heavy cream adds a wonderful richness, but you can substitute with more milk if you prefer a lighter version.
3. Sweeten and Spice: Now, add the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. The cinnamon and nutmeg are crucial for that warm, comforting flavor we all love in French toast. Don’t skip them!
4. Whisk Thoroughly: Using a whisk, vigorously whisk all the ingredients together until they are completely combined and the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. You want to make sure the sugar is fully dissolved. This will ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the French toast.
5. Strain (Optional but Recommended): For an extra smooth and luxurious French toast, you can strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. This will remove any bits of egg white that might not have fully incorporated. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference in the final texture.

Soaking the Hawaiian Rolls:

Now comes the fun part – soaking those fluffy Hawaiian rolls in our flavorful custard! This step is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, custardy interior.

1. Prepare the Rolls: Gently separate the Hawaiian rolls. You can either keep them attached in rows of 3 or 4 for easier handling, or separate them completely. I personally like to keep them in rows of 3 because it makes flipping them in the pan a bit easier.
2. Soak the Rolls: Place the rolls in a shallow dish or baking pan. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the rolls, making sure to saturate them completely. Don’t be afraid to gently press down on the rolls to help them absorb the custard.
3. Let Them Soak: Let the rolls soak in the custard for at least 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even soaking. The longer they soak, the more custardy they will be. For an even more decadent French toast, you can soak them for up to 30 minutes. Just be careful not to soak them for too long, or they might become too soggy and fall apart.

Cooking the French Toast:

Alright, time to get cooking! This is where we transform those custard-soaked rolls into golden-brown, irresistible French toast. Patience is key here – we want to cook them low and slow to ensure they are cooked through without burning.

1. Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and let it melt completely. The butter will help prevent the French toast from sticking and will also add a delicious buttery flavor.
2. Cook the First Batch: Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, carefully place a few of the soaked Hawaiian rolls in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. You want to leave enough space between the rolls so that they can brown evenly.
3. Cook Each Side: Cook the French toast for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to gently flip the rolls. If they are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. If they are not browning enough, increase the heat slightly.
4. Repeat with Remaining Rolls: Remove the cooked French toast from the pan and place them on a plate. Add another tablespoon of butter to the pan and repeat the cooking process with the remaining soaked Hawaiian rolls. Make sure to add butter to the pan before each batch to prevent sticking.
5. Keep Warm (Optional): To keep the French toast warm while you cook the remaining batches, you can place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C). This will prevent them from getting cold and soggy.

Serving and Topping:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for – time to serve and enjoy our delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast! This is where you can get creative and customize your French toast with your favorite toppings.

1. Plate the French Toast: Arrange the cooked French toast on plates.
2. Add Your Favorite Toppings: Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, top with fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), add a dollop of whipped cream, sprinkle with chopped nuts, or add a sprinkle of coconut flakes. The possibilities are endless!
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the French toast immediately while it is still warm and delicious.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the French toast in batches ensures even browning and prevents the pan from cooling down too much.
• Adjust the Heat: Keep a close eye on the heat and adjust it as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.
• Soaking Time Matters: The longer the rolls soak, the more custardy they will be. Experiment to find your perfect soaking time.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and good quality milk will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of the French toast.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to create your own unique French toast masterpiece.

Variations:

• Stuffed French Toast: Before cooking, slice the soaked rolls horizontally and fill them with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves.
• Baked French Toast Casserole: Arrange the soaked rolls in a baking dish and bake in the oven for a hands-off breakfast option.
• Savory French Toast: Omit the sugar and vanilla extract from the custard and add savory herbs like thyme or rosemary. Serve with a fried egg and bacon.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for a special weekend breakfast or brunch. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t just breakfast; it’s a mini-vacation on a plate! The sweetness of the rolls, the richness of the custard, and the ease of preparation make it a truly irresistible treat. I’ve made this for countless brunches, lazy weekend mornings, and even as a surprisingly delightful dessert, and it’s always a hit. Seriously, the pillowy texture and the subtle tang of the pineapple juice create a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your breakfast game, or simply want to impress your friends and family with minimal effort, this is the recipe you’ve been waiting for.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup are classic choices, of course. But why stop there? Consider adding fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of freshness and color. A dollop of whipped cream is always welcome, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes adds a delightful tropical twist. For a truly decadent experience, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce – trust me, you won’t regret it!

And don’t be afraid to play around with the custard base either. If you’re not a fan of pineapple juice, you can easily substitute it with orange juice or even milk. A splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon can also add a warm and inviting aroma. For a richer flavor, try using half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk. You can even add a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur, like rum or amaretto, for an extra kick.

Another fun variation is to make individual French toast cups. Simply cut the Hawaiian rolls into smaller pieces, toss them with the custard, and bake them in muffin tins. This is a great option for portion control and makes for a beautiful presentation. You can also add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the custard for added texture and flavor.

I truly believe that this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves breakfast (or dessert!). It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. It’s the perfect way to start your day on a sweet note, or to end it with a satisfying treat. It’s also a fantastic option for potlucks, brunch parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a simple yet elegant dish.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your griddle, and get ready to experience the magic of Hawaiian Roll French Toast. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. And when you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below! I’d love to hear about your variations, your favorite toppings, and any tips or tricks you discover along the way. Happy cooking, and enjoy! I can’t wait to hear what you think!