Description: Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this incredibly easy and delightfully sweet Hawaiian Roll French Toast. The pillowy softness of King’s Hawaiian rolls transforms into a decadent treat when soaked in a fragrant egg custard and pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a weekend indulgence or a special occasion, this recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (12 rolls) King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or milk alternative of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional: powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls: Gently remove the Hawaiian rolls from their packaging. The key to this recipe lies in slicing the rolls horizontally to create a top and bottom half. This allows for maximum custard absorption, resulting in a truly luscious final product. Using a long, serrated bread knife, carefully slice through the entire package of rolls at once, creating a single large top piece and a single large bottom piece. Try to keep the slice as even as possible. This helps them cook uniformly.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, crack the four large eggs. Add the cup of milk, the teaspoon of vanilla extract, the quarter teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and the pinch of salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine all the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Ensure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining. This well-blended custard is what will transform your Hawaiian rolls into irresistible French toast. The vanilla extract provides a warm, comforting aroma, while the cinnamon adds a subtle spice that complements the sweetness of the rolls. A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls: Now comes the crucial step of soaking the Hawaiian rolls in the custard. Take each half of the sliced rolls (either the top or bottom section) and gently submerge it into the egg mixture. Allow the rolls to soak for approximately 15-20 seconds per side. This time is crucial. You want the rolls to be saturated with the custard, but not so soggy that they fall apart. The sweet bread of the Hawaiian rolls will readily absorb the liquid. Be gentle when flipping the rolls in the mixture to prevent them from breaking. If you’re concerned about the rolls becoming too soft, you can slightly reduce the soaking time.
Step 4: Melt the Butter: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add about a tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan. Allow the butter to melt completely, coating the surface of the pan evenly. The butter not only prevents the French toast from sticking but also adds a rich, golden-brown crust that’s incredibly appealing. If the butter starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. You may need to add more butter between batches to ensure consistent cooking.
Step 5: Cook the French Toast: Once the pan is heated and the butter is melted, carefully place the custard-soaked Hawaiian roll halves into the skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Allow the French toast to cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the heat of your stovetop and the thickness of the bread. Use a spatula to gently flip the French toast. The goal is to achieve a beautifully golden-brown exterior while ensuring the interior is cooked through and no longer soggy.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Very Easy
- Taste: Excellent
- Kid-Friendliness: Extremely Kid-Friendly
- Overall Rating: 5/5 stars
Why you will love this recipe:
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: The recipe is incredibly simple and straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment. Even beginner cooks can easily master this recipe with delicious results.
- Flavor Profile: The combination of the sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls with the rich, custardy egg mixture creates a delightful flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. The addition of vanilla and cinnamon enhances the overall aroma and taste.
- Versatility: This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can experiment with different milk alternatives, spices, and toppings. It’s a fantastic base for creativity in the kitchen.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown French toast made from Hawaiian rolls looks incredibly appealing and inviting. It’s a perfect dish for brunch gatherings, special occasions, or a simple weekend treat.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids absolutely love the sweetness and texture of this French toast. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen and enjoy a homemade breakfast.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Toppings: Serve the warm Hawaiian Roll French Toast with a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance.
- Fresh Fruits: Top with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas for a burst of freshness and color.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a decadent touch. Consider flavoring the whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and flavor.
- Savory Pairing: For a more balanced meal, serve alongside crispy bacon, sausage, or a side of scrambled eggs.
- Special Occasion: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for a truly indulgent treat.
Tips:
- Don’t Oversoak: Be mindful not to oversoak the Hawaiian rolls, as they can become too soggy and fall apart. A quick 15-20 second soak per side is usually sufficient.
- Temperature Control: Maintain a medium heat to prevent the French toast from burning on the outside before the inside is cooked through.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using high-quality, fresh ingredients, especially vanilla extract and cinnamon, will significantly enhance the flavor of the French toast.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the skillet or griddle is evenly heated before adding the French toast to ensure consistent cooking and browning.
- Keep Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until ready to serve.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a unique flavor twist.
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10-15 minutes Total Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximately 2 rolls)
- Calories: 350-450 (depending on toppings)
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Sodium: 200-300mg
Conclusion:
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a simple yet exceptional recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Its easy preparation, delightful flavor, and impressive presentation make it a winner in every kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast, a special brunch treat, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the sweet and satisfying experience of homemade Hawaiian Roll French Toast!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of bread if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls?
A: While Hawaiian rolls are the star of this recipe and provide a unique sweetness and texture, you can substitute them with other types of bread. Brioche, challah, or even regular white bread will work, but keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different. Adjust the soaking time accordingly, as different breads absorb liquid at different rates. Thicker slices will need more time to soak.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the egg custard mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s not recommended to soak the rolls ahead of time, as they will become too soggy. You can also cook the French toast and reheat it in the oven or microwave, but the texture might not be as perfect as freshly made.
Q3: Can I add any other flavors to the egg mixture?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors to customize the recipe to your liking. A splash of orange zest, a teaspoon of almond extract, or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice can add unique and delicious twists. You could also add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the egg mixture for extra sweetness.
Q4: How do I prevent the French toast from sticking to the pan?
A: The key to preventing sticking is to use a non-stick skillet or griddle and to ensure that the pan is properly greased. Use a generous amount of butter or cooking spray to coat the surface of the pan evenly. Also, make sure the pan is heated to the correct temperature before adding the French toast. If the pan is too cold, the French toast will absorb more grease and be more likely to stick.
Q5: What’s the best way to keep the French toast warm if I’m making a big batch?
A: To keep the French toast warm while you cook the remaining batches, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the cooked French toast on a baking sheet in a single layer and keep it in the warm oven until ready to serve. This will prevent it from becoming soggy. You can also use a warming drawer if you have one.
