Hawaiian Roll French Toast: The Sweetest Breakfast Recipe Ever

Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Just the name conjures up images of a sweet, tropical breakfast, doesn’t it? Forget everything you thought you knew about French toast because this recipe is a game-changer! Imagine sinking your teeth into fluffy, golden-brown slices of sweet Hawaiian bread, soaked in a rich custard, and cooked to perfection. It’s a breakfast experience that’s both comforting and exciting, and trust me, it’s incredibly easy to make.

While French toast itself has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient Rome, this particular twist is a modern marvel. The subtle sweetness of Hawaiian rolls adds a unique dimension that elevates this classic dish to new heights. These rolls, known for their soft texture and slightly tangy flavor, originated in Hawaii and have become a beloved staple in households across the globe. Their inherent sweetness makes them the perfect base for a decadent French toast.

People adore Hawaiian Roll French Toast for several reasons. First, the taste is simply irresistible – a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and custardy goodness. Second, the texture is divine – soft and pillowy on the inside, with a slightly crisp exterior. And finally, it’s incredibly convenient. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and comes together in minutes, making it perfect for a quick weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch. So, are you ready to transform your breakfast routine? Let’s get started!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

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

Preparing the Custard:

Alright, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is whip up the custard that will transform our Hawaiian rolls into golden, delicious French toast. 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 get all the shell fragments out – nobody wants crunchy French toast!
2. Whisk the Eggs: Using a whisk, vigorously whisk the eggs until they are light and frothy. This will incorporate air and help create a light and airy French toast. Don’t be shy, give it a good whisk for about a minute or two.
3. Add the Milk and Cream: Pour in the 1 cup of milk and the 1/4 cup of heavy cream (if you’re using it). The heavy cream adds a lovely richness, but it’s totally optional if you’re watching your calories.
4. Sweeten the Deal: Add the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This will give the French toast a touch of sweetness that complements the Hawaiian rolls perfectly.
5. Flavor it Up: Now for the good stuff! Stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. These spices add warmth and depth of flavor that will make your French toast irresistible.
6. A Pinch of Salt: Don’t forget the pinch of salt! Salt enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors.
7. Whisk it All Together: Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and the sugar is dissolved. You should have a smooth, creamy custard.

Soaking the Hawaiian Rolls:

Now comes the fun part – soaking the Hawaiian rolls in the custard! This is crucial for ensuring that the French toast is moist and flavorful all the way through.

1. Prepare the Rolls: Gently separate the Hawaiian rolls. You can keep them attached in rows of 3 or 4, or separate them completely – it’s up to you! I personally like to keep them in rows of 3 for easier handling.
2. Soak the Rolls: Place the Hawaiian rolls in a shallow dish or baking pan. Pour the custard evenly over the rolls, making sure they are all well coated.
3. Let them Soak: Let the rolls soak in the custard for at least 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they are evenly saturated. The longer they soak, the more flavorful and moist they will be. If you have time, you can even soak them for up to 30 minutes. Just be careful not to over-soak them, or they will become too soggy.

Cooking the French Toast:

Time to cook our soaked Hawaiian rolls into golden-brown perfection! This is where patience and a little bit of technique come in handy.

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt completely, coating the bottom of the pan.
2. Cook the First Batch: Carefully lift the soaked Hawaiian rolls from the custard, letting any excess drip off. Place them in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
3. Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook the French toast for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them and adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning. You want them to be nicely browned on the outside and soft and custardy on the inside.
4. Repeat with Remaining Rolls: Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and place them on a plate. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and repeat the cooking process with the remaining soaked Hawaiian rolls.

Serving and Topping:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for – serving and enjoying our delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast! This is where you can get creative and add 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, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes – the possibilities are endless!
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the French toast immediately while it’s still warm and delicious.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and variations to help you customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast:

• Overnight Soak: For an even more intense flavor and incredibly moist French toast, you can soak the Hawaiian rolls in the custard overnight in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
• Different Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom, ginger, or allspice, to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the custard for a bright and zesty flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the French toast while it’s still warm for a decadent treat.
• Savory French Toast: For a savory twist, omit the sugar and vanilla extract from the custard and add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs. Serve with a fried egg and bacon or sausage.
• Baking Option: If you prefer, you can bake the French toast instead of cooking it on the stovetop. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soaked Hawaiian rolls in a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for Hawaiian Roll French Toast as much as I do! It’s a simple yet incredibly delicious breakfast or brunch that’s sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and variations to create your own signature version. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t just breakfast; it’s a mini-vacation on a plate! The sweet, fluffy rolls soak up the custard beautifully, creating a texture that’s both decadent and comforting. Seriously, if you’re looking for a way to elevate your brunch game or simply treat yourself to something special, this recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve shared my go-to recipe, feel free to get creative with your toppings and additions. For a truly indulgent experience, try adding a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup. Fresh berries, like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, add a burst of freshness and vibrant color. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or chopped macadamia nuts will enhance the tropical vibe.

And don’t limit yourself to just breakfast! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast makes a fantastic dessert, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You could even cut the rolls into smaller pieces and use them as croutons for a sweet and savory salad. The possibilities are endless!

For serving suggestions, I personally love pairing this French toast with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced meal. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a steaming cup of coffee completes the perfect brunch spread. If you’re serving it as dessert, consider a light and refreshing fruit salad to complement the richness of the French toast.

I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. The subtle sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls combined with the creamy custard is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect way to start a weekend morning or end a long day on a sweet note.

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 promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any special toppings or variations? What did you think of the texture and flavor? Share your photos and comments below! Let’s create a community of French toast lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Your feedback is invaluable, and I’m always looking for ways to improve and share even more delicious recipes with you. Happy cooking! I am confident that this will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Enjoy!