Hawaiian Roll French Toast combines the rich, buttery sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with the classic flavors of French toast, creating an indulgent dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. If you’re looking for a unique way to upgrade your weekend breakfast routine, this recipe is an excellent choice. With its golden-brown exterior and soft, custard-like interior, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
What Makes Hawaiian Rolls Special?
Hawaiian rolls are celebrated for their soft, fluffy texture and sweet, buttery flavor. Originally inspired by Portuguese sweet bread, Hawaiian rolls often include ingredients like butter, sugar, and sometimes pineapple juice, which add a subtle tropical note. Their slightly sweet profile and pillowy softness make them ideal for absorbing the rich custard mixture used in French toast recipes. Brands like King’s Hawaiian are household names and are widely available, ensuring that this recipe can be recreated with consistency.
Using Hawaiian rolls instead of traditional bread or brioche elevates the dish, offering a unique twist on a breakfast classic. Unlike standard sliced bread, Hawaiian rolls retain their shape and texture after soaking in the custard, delivering a perfect balance of crispness and fluffiness.
Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
This recipe is made with everyday ingredients, making it accessible and straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: Use King’s Hawaiian rolls for the best results.
- 4 large eggs: These provide the base for the custard.
- ½ cup milk: Whole milk works best, but alternatives like almond or oat milk can be substituted.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a rich, sweet aroma.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the custard.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Adds a hint of spice for a cozy touch.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used for frying, providing a rich flavor.
- Optional toppings: Powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce.
These simple ingredients come together to create a decadent breakfast dish that feels luxurious without requiring complicated techniques.
How to Prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast
This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for beginner cooks or seasoned chefs looking for a creative breakfast idea.
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a wide bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg (if using). Ensure the mixture is smooth, with no streaks of egg white. The custard is the heart of this recipe, infusing the rolls with flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Slice and Soak the Rolls
Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create more surface area for soaking up the custard. Soaking the rolls for about 20-30 seconds ensures they absorb enough custard without becoming overly saturated, which could result in sogginess during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. Place the soaked rolls on the skillet, cooking them for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Flip them carefully to maintain their shape. The goal is to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and custardy.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the cooked rolls to a plate and keep them warm. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and garnish with fresh fruit for a beautiful presentation.
Toppings and Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Roll French Toast shines on its own but can be enhanced with a variety of toppings and sides. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Fresh Fruits: Sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or bananas add a burst of freshness and color.
- Savory Sides: Pair with crispy bacon, sausage, or even smoked salmon for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
- Decadent Toppings: Whipped cream, chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar elevate the dish to dessert status.
- Nutty Additions: Toasted almonds, pecans, or a dollop of Nutella add texture and richness.
For a complementary side dish, consider pairing this recipe with a Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad to create a balanced brunch spread.
Creative Variations
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste or the season. Here are some variations to try:
- Tropical Paradise: Replace the milk with coconut milk and top with toasted coconut flakes and pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- Autumn Bliss: Add pumpkin spice to the custard mixture and garnish with caramel sauce and toasted pecans.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix chocolate chips into the custard or drizzle the finished rolls with melted chocolate for a rich, indulgent treat.
- Savory Surprise: Skip the cinnamon and nutmeg, and add a pinch of garlic powder and cheese for a savory take.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate almond extract into the custard and top with slivered almonds and a drizzle of honey.
For more seasonal inspiration, check out this mulled apple cider recipe that pairs beautifully with the autumn variation.
Why Hawaiian Roll French Toast Stands Out
What sets Hawaiian Roll French Toast apart is its ability to balance textures and flavors. The rolls’ natural sweetness complements the rich custard, while their soft texture ensures they absorb just the right amount of liquid without falling apart. This combination creates a dish that is crispy on the outside and custardy on the inside, delivering a perfect bite every time.
Unlike traditional French toast made with sliced bread, this recipe offers a unique twist that feels special. The individual rolls make portioning easy and add a touch of fun to the presentation, especially for kids or at gatherings.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Rolls: Slightly stale bread works well for traditional French toast, but fresh Hawaiian rolls are ideal for this recipe due to their soft texture.
- Don’t Over-Soak: While it’s important for the rolls to absorb the custard, soaking them for too long can make them soggy and difficult to cook.
- Control the Heat: Medium heat is key to achieving a golden-brown exterior without burning. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent scorching.
- Work in Batches: Cook a few rolls at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and affect cooking.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Brunch
Hawaiian Roll French Toast pairs well with other breakfast dishes to create a complete and satisfying brunch menu. Consider these options:
- Baked Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins: A sweet, handheld addition to your spread.
- Healthy Apple Crumble: For a lighter, fruit-based dessert option.
- Avocado Toast with Egg and Fruit: A savory dish that balances the sweetness of the French toast.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on a breakfast favorite, offering a unique combination of sweetness, texture, and versatility. Its simple preparation makes it accessible for everyday mornings, while its presentation and flavor make it special enough for gatherings and holidays.
Whether you’re hosting brunch, treating your family to something special, or just exploring new ways to enjoy Hawaiian rolls, this recipe is a winner. Pair it with a Cowboy Slow Cooker Casserole for a hearty, satisfying meal, or serve it alongside fresh fruit and coffee for a light, elegant spread.
The possibilities are endless with Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Get creative, try out variations, and make it your own!