Hawaiian Roll French Toast

If you’re tired of your usual French toast and want to try something new, then Hawaiian Roll French Toast is exactly what you need. This indulgent breakfast dish takes the beloved French toast to new heights by using soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls instead of regular bread. The rolls’ rich, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the egg custard, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

This recipe is easy to make and will have everyone at the breakfast table asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a special weekend brunch or a weekday morning treat, this recipe is sure to impress. You can even make it ahead of time and freeze it for those busy mornings!

Why Use Hawaiian Rolls for French Toast?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why Hawaiian rolls are the perfect choice for French toast. These little rolls are soft, sweet, and full of flavor, which makes them the ideal base for an indulgent breakfast dish. Here’s why they work so well:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Hawaiian rolls are incredibly soft, making them easy to soak in the egg mixture without falling apart. Their soft interior transforms into a deliciously creamy texture once cooked.
• Slightly Sweet Flavor: Unlike plain white bread, Hawaiian rolls have a subtle sweetness that adds an extra layer of flavor to your French toast, balancing perfectly with syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
• Perfect Portion Sizes: Hawaiian rolls are typically sold in individual sizes, making them great for creating bite-sized pieces of French toast. This also makes portion control easier!

So, if you’re looking for something a bit different and a lot more flavorful, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the way to go.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

You don’t need a lot of ingredients to create this delicious breakfast, but each one plays an important role in making the French toast rich and flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 Hawaiian rolls (fresh or slightly stale)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or you can use half-and-half for a richer taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds a lovely spice)
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
• Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream (for topping)

These ingredients combine to create a delicious and satisfying breakfast that’s perfect for lazy mornings or special occasions.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Now that you have everything you need, let’s walk through the steps to making this mouthwatering Hawaiian Roll French Toast:

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Mix everything until smooth and well-combined. This egg mixture will be the base for soaking your Hawaiian rolls, so make sure it’s blended thoroughly.

2. Slice the Hawaiian Rolls

Next, take your Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally. You can also slice them into quarters or smaller pieces for bite-sized portions, depending on your preference. The rolls should be sliced just enough to expose the soft, fluffy interior that will absorb the egg mixture.

3. Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan. This will give your French toast a golden-brown crispy texture once it’s cooked.

4. Dip the Rolls in the Egg Mixture

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Take each Hawaiian roll half and dip it into the prepared egg mixture. Be sure to coat both sides evenly, but don’t let it soak for too long. The rolls absorb liquid quickly, so a brief dip will give you the perfect texture without making them soggy.

5. Cook the French Toast

Place the dipped rolls on the hot skillet or griddle. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. Be careful not to overcook them; you want the inside to be soft and custardy, while the outside gets a nice crispy crunch.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the French toast is cooked, transfer it to a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. You can’t go wrong with classic maple syrup, but powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream are all great options too!

Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To make sure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Hawaiian Rolls: Fresh rolls will give you the softest and most flavorful French toast. However, if you’re using slightly stale rolls, just soak them for a little longer to ensure they absorb the egg mixture properly.
• Control the Heat: Be mindful of the heat as you cook. Medium heat works best to ensure that the exterior gets crispy without overcooking the inside. Adjust the heat if necessary to get an even golden-brown crust.
• Don’t Over-Soak: Hawaiian rolls soak up the egg mixture quickly, so don’t let them sit too long. A brief dip is all you need for the perfect texture.
• Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Add fresh berries, banana slices, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce to make it even more indulgent.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

If you’re feeling creative, there are many ways to modify this recipe and make it your own. Here are a few ideas:

• Dairy-Free Version: Swap the whole milk for almond milk or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative to make this dish dairy-free.
• Savory Twist: For a savory version, top your French toast with crumbled bacon or even scrambled eggs for a savory-sweet combo.
• Add Fruit: Top your French toast with fresh berries, banana slices, or even a fruit compote to add some freshness and extra flavor.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat:

• Skillet: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
• Toaster: You can also pop it in the toaster for a quick and easy reheat.

For longer storage, you can freeze the French toast by wrapping each piece in plastic wrap or foil and placing them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Food and Drink Pairings

Want to complete your breakfast experience? Here are some perfect pairings for your Hawaiian Roll French Toast:

• Beverages: Pair it with freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of orange juice for a delicious and balanced breakfast.
• Savory Sides: A side of crispy bacon or sausage links complements the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
• Fresh Fruit: Add a fruit salad or fresh fruit slices to balance out the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture and slice the Hawaiian rolls the night before. When you’re ready to cook, just dip the rolls and cook as usual. This will save you time in the morning, making breakfast even quicker and easier!

What can I use if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?

While Hawaiian rolls provide the perfect balance of sweetness and softness, you can use other soft, slightly sweet breads like brioche, challah, or even cinnamon rolls as substitutes. These options will still give you a rich and delicious French toast experience.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk of your choice. You can also use dairy-free butter for cooking.

How do I prevent the French toast from becoming soggy?

To avoid soggy French toast, make sure not to soak the rolls for too long in the egg mixture. A quick dip on each side is enough. Hawaiian rolls absorb the liquid quickly, so it’s best to coat them gently.

Can I freeze leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Yes! If you have leftovers, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or pop them in the toaster for a quicker option.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a simple yet indulgent twist on the classic French toast recipe. With its soft, sweet rolls and crispy exterior, this dish brings the best of both worlds. It’s easy to prepare, versatile enough to customize with toppings, and perfect for making any morning feel special. Whether you’re cooking it for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just as a sweet treat on a random morning, this recipe is sure to impress.

So, why not give it a try and take your French toast game to the next level? You’ll be enjoying this irresistible dish in no time—and maybe even getting requests for it every weekend!

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