When I first stumbled upon the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, I knew I was in for a treat. The sweet and fluffy Hawaiian rolls transformed into a decadent breakfast dish that had my taste buds dancing. I have made this dish countless times, and each time it brings back memories of cozy mornings spent with my family. The combination of the soft rolls, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a delightful flavor that is hard to resist.
Why Use Hawaiian Rolls for French Toast?
Using Hawaiian rolls for French toast is a game changer. Their sweetness and soft texture make them the perfect base for this dish. When soaked in a rich custard and cooked to golden perfection, they become a delicious treat that everyone loves.
Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To make this scrumptious Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit (bananas, strawberries, or blueberries)
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is simple and quick. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure everything is well combined.
This custard mixture forms the base of the French toast and gives it that rich flavor. I always make sure to taste the mixture before soaking the rolls to see if it needs any extra spice.
Step 2: Slice the Hawaiian Rolls
Next, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half. You can keep them connected at the back like a sandwich or separate them completely. I prefer keeping them connected for an easier flip later on.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
In a large baking dish, lay the sliced rolls cut-side up and pour the custard mixture over them. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Soaking is essential as it allows the rolls to absorb the custard, which results in a fluffy and flavorful French toast.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s sizzling, carefully place the soaked rolls in the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
The aroma that fills your kitchen during this step is just heavenly. I often find myself sneaking a piece or two while cooking!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, transfer the French toast to a serving platter. Top with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Every bite of this dish is a burst of flavor. It’s the perfect breakfast to serve on special occasions or just because.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this dish even better:
- Use Day-Old Rolls: If you have day-old Hawaiian rolls, use them. They soak up the custard better without falling apart.
- Don’t Rush the Soaking: Allow the rolls enough time to soak in the custard. The longer they soak, the more flavorful they become.
- Cook in Batches: If you have a large batch, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures even cooking.
Variations of Hawaiian Roll French Toast
While the classic version is delicious, there are many ways to switch it up:
- Stuffed French Toast: Before soaking, add cream cheese or Nutella in the center of the rolls for a stuffed version.
- Coconut French Toast: Mix shredded coconut into the custard for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Chip: Add chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a dessert-like breakfast.
How to Store Leftover French Toast
If you have any leftovers, don’t worry! They store well. Here’s how:
- Refrigeration: Place the leftover French toast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or microwave. They’ll taste almost as good as fresh!
Perfect Pairings for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some ideas:
- Sausage: The salty flavor complements the sweetness of the French toast.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing side that adds a healthy touch.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements the richness of the dish.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast has become a staple in my home. It’s easy to make, delicious, and always brings smiles to the breakfast table.
If you haven’t tried making Hawaiian Roll French Toast yet, I highly recommend it! It’s a delightful breakfast that is sure to please everyone. The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls with a rich custard is simply irresistible.