Hawaiian Roll French Toast

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite! Perfect for weekend brunch or special occasions, this recipe brings together soft and buttery Hawaiian rolls with a luscious cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture. The result is a sweet and fluffy treat that everyone will love. Serve it with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

This dish is not only delicious but also has several appealing features.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this French toast in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of cinnamon and vanilla gives every bite a warm, comforting flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a breakfast, brunch, or even dessert; it fits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves multiple people, making it perfect for gatherings and family meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep your rolls in advance for easy cooking on busy mornings.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, gather the necessary tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9 x 13 baking dish
• Whisk
• Large skillet
• Spatula
• Plate

Importance of Each Tool

• 9 x 13 baking dish: Ideal for mixing and soaking the egg mixture with all the rolls evenly.
• Whisk: Helps combine the ingredients smoothly for a consistent batter.
• Large skillet: Provides enough space to cook multiple rolls at once, ensuring they brown properly.

Ingredients

For the Egg Mixture

• 6 eggs
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Rolls

• 24-pack sweet Hawaiian rolls
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a 9 x 13 baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Dip each Hawaiian roll into the egg mixture. Turn them to coat all sides evenly. Let them soak for about 5 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Step 3: Cook the Rolls

Remove the soaked rolls from the mixture and set them aside on a plate. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add half of the rolls (or as many as will fit) and cook until golden brown on all sides, around 1 minute per side (approximately 6 minutes per batch). Transfer cooked rolls to a platter covered with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

Wipe out the skillet if needed. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to cook the rest of the rolls until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries. Enjoy this sweet breakfast delight!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful breakfast option that can be customized in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday brunch or a leisurely weekend meal, these suggestions will elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Classic Toppings

• Maple Syrup: A drizzle of warm maple syrup adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the flavors.
• Powdered Sugar: Dusting with powdered sugar gives a beautiful finish and an extra hint of sweetness.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a fresh burst of flavor and color.

Creative Additions

• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream offers a decadent touch to your French toast.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter for added protein and a nutty flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle some chocolate chips on top for an indulgent twist.

Fruit Pairings

• Banana Slices: Fresh banana slices enhance the sweetness and provide a creamy texture.
• Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes add a tropical touch that pairs beautifully with Hawaiian rolls.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, follow these simple tips for an incredible breakfast experience.

• Choose Quality Rolls: Select fresh, soft Hawaiian rolls to ensure maximum fluffiness and flavor.
• Let Them Soak: Allow the rolls to soak in the egg mixture long enough to absorb the flavors but not too long that they become soggy.
• Use Medium Heat: Cooking on medium heat prevents burning while ensuring the inside cooks through properly.
• Flip Carefully: Gently turn the rolls to maintain their shape and avoid breaking them apart.
• Keep Warm: Place cooked rolls in a covered dish to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or cardamom for extra depth in your egg mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Roll French Toast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Breakfast Sausages: Savory sausages balance the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
2. Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft rolls.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and pair well with sweet dishes.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light complement to the rich flavors of French toast.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a healthy side option that’s also visually appealing.
6. Smoothies: A fruit smoothie adds nutrition and can be customized based on seasonal fruits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure the best results.

• Over-soaking the rolls: Leaving the rolls in the egg mixture for too long can make them soggy. Aim for 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Stale Hawaiian rolls won’t absorb the mixture well and may lead to an unappetizing texture. Use soft, fresh rolls for the best results.
• Not preheating the skillet: A cold skillet will cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your skillet before adding the rolls for perfectly golden brown results.
• Ignoring portion control: Cooking too many rolls at once can overcrowd the skillet, leading to uneven cooking. Work in batches to ensure each roll is cooked properly.
• Skipping the toppings: These French toast rolls shine with toppings! Don’t forget maple syrup, powdered sugar, or berries to enhance flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place French toast on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Cut each piece in half and microwave on high for about 30 seconds or until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Heat a little butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add French toast and cook until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a breakfast dish made from sweet Hawaiian rolls soaked in an egg mixture with cinnamon and vanilla, then pan-fried until golden.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture and soak the rolls in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You can top it with maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream for added flavor and sweetness.

Can I use other types of bread?

While this recipe is best with Hawaiian rolls, you can substitute other soft breads like brioche or challah if desired.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings or add-ins according to your taste preferences. Try making this delightful dish for breakfast or brunch; it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!