Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

If you’re looking for a new and delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite, look no further than Hawaiian Roll French Toast. This recipe combines the soft, slightly sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls with a rich custard mixture, creating a fluffy, golden-brown French toast that is simply irresistible. Perfect for weekend brunches or a special breakfast treat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of making this mouth-watering Hawaiian Roll French Toast!

Why Choose Hawaiian Rolls for French Toast?

Hawaiian rolls are an excellent choice for French toast because of their unique texture and subtle sweetness. Unlike traditional bread, King’s Hawaiian Rolls have a soft, fluffy interior and a golden, slightly chewy crust. This makes them perfect for absorbing the rich custard mixture while maintaining their shape during cooking. The mild sweetness of the rolls pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and vanilla custard, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

Ingredients Overview

To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Rolls: The star of the recipe, providing a soft, sweet base.
• 3 large eggs: Essential for the custard mixture, giving the French toast its rich flavor and texture.
• 3/4 cup half and half or whole milk: Adds creaminess to the custard mixture. Use half and half for a richer taste or whole milk for a lighter version.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of spice that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens the custard while helping the rolls caramelize during cooking.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking): Provides a rich, buttery flavor and ensures a crispy, golden crust.
• Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup (for serving): Optional toppings to elevate the dish’s presentation and taste.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Nonstick skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Toothpick or skewer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half (or whole milk) until they are fully combined. Make sure the mixture is smooth and there are no streaks of egg whites.
2. Add Flavorings to the Custard:
   Whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until all ingredients are fully incorporated, and the mixture is well blended with no clumps of cinnamon or sugar.
3. Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls:
   Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll. This step allows the custard to penetrate the rolls, ensuring they are fully soaked and flavorful throughout.
4. Soak the Rolls:
   Working in batches, dip the rolls into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds, turning them to coat all sides evenly. Be careful not to soak the rolls for too long, as they may become too soggy.
5. Heat the Butter in a Skillet:
   Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Allow the butter to foam and turn slightly golden but not brown.
6. Cook the Rolls:
   Place the soaked rolls into the skillet, cooking them for 30 to 60 seconds on each side or until golden brown. Use a spatula to carefully turn the rolls, ensuring that all sides are cooked evenly and develop a crispy, golden crust.
7. Serve Warm:
   Arrange the Hawaiian Roll French Toast on a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar, and top with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired. Enjoy while warm!

Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Use Day-Old Rolls: Slightly stale rolls will absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy. If using fresh rolls, let them sit out for a few hours before preparing the dish.
• Don’t Over-Soak the Rolls: Soak each roll just enough to absorb the custard without breaking apart. Approximately 30 seconds should be sufficient.
• Cook on Medium-Low Heat: To ensure the rolls cook evenly without burning, use medium-low heat. This will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-Soaking the Rolls: This can lead to a soggy texture. Ensure the rolls are only lightly soaked in the custard mixture.
• Using High Heat: Cooking at a high temperature may cause the butter to burn and the rolls to brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw on the inside.
• Skipping the Holes in the Rolls: Poking holes allows the custard to penetrate the rolls, ensuring even soaking and flavor distribution.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

To elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, consider these serving ideas:

• Garnishes: Fresh berries, banana slices, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Drizzles: Warm maple syrup, honey, or a dollop of whipped cream for added sweetness.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a side of crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast or brunch spread.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to retain their crispiness.

FAQ: Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Can I use a dairy-free alternative?
  Yes, you can substitute half and half or whole milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any dairy-free alternative. Ensure it is unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors.
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
  Absolutely! Look for gluten-free Hawaiian-style rolls or substitute with your favorite gluten-free bread.
• How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator for up to an hour before cooking.

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy and delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch. With its crispy edges and fluffy, flavorful center, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, make sure to share it with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes!

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