Introduction
Looking for the ultimate breakfast upgrade? This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe will transform your morning routine. Unlike traditional French toast, Hawaiian Roll French Toast offers a unique twist by using sweet, pillowy rolls that create an irresistibly delicious breakfast experience. As a culinary expert who’s perfected numerous French toast variations, I can assure you that this version delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Read on to discover how to make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast you’ve ever tasted.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
- Hawaiian Roll French Toast combines the natural sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with a rich custard base for perfect flavor
- Quick 10-minute prep makes this ideal for both busy mornings and lazy weekend brunches
- The compact size of rolls creates perfect portion control and fun presentation
- Works great for meal prep – make ahead and reheat throughout the week
Choosing the Right Rolls
Best Roll Options
For authentic Hawaiian Roll French Toast, King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls are essential. Their signature texture and sweetness create the perfect foundation. While the original rolls work best, you can also use King’s Hawaiian hamburger buns or sandwich rolls for larger portions.
Buying Tips
Look for fresh, soft rolls without any dry spots. Check the expiration date and avoid packages with any visible mold. Slightly stale rolls actually work well for French toast, as they better absorb the custard mixture.
Substitutions
If Hawaiian rolls aren’t available, try brioche rolls, Portuguese sweet bread, or challah rolls. Regular dinner rolls will work but won’t provide the same signature sweetness.
Ingredients & Prep
Essential Components
- 1 package (12 count) King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter for cooking
Custard Preparation
Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. The mixture should be smooth with no visible egg streaks.
Roll Preparation
Slice rolls in half horizontally if desired, or leave whole for a more substantial portion. Allow rolls to sit out for 20 minutes before cooking for optimal custard absorption.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep
- Set up a dipping station with your custard mixture in a shallow bowl
- Place a wire rack over a baking sheet for finished pieces
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat
- Have butter ready for cooking
Cooking Method
- Dip each roll in custard mixture for 15-20 seconds per side
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in the skillet
- Cook rolls for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown
- Keep finished pieces warm in a 200°F oven if cooking in batches
Doneness Check
- Exterior should be golden brown and slightly crispy
- Gently press the center – it should spring back slightly
- Interior should be fully cooked but still moist
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Don’t oversoak the rolls – they’ll become too soggy
- Maintain medium heat to prevent burning
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding
- Use real butter for the best flavor
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best results
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month – wrap individually
Flavor Variations
Sweet Additions
- Add orange zest to the custard mixture
- Stuff with cream cheese before cooking
- Top with coconut syrup for a tropical twist
Dietary Modifications
- Use almond milk and monk fruit sweetener for lower sugar
- Add protein powder to the custard for extra nutrition
- Make it dairy-free with coconut milk and plant-based butter
Serving Suggestions
Transform your Hawaiian Roll French Toast into a tropical paradise with these serving ideas:
- Fresh tropical fruits like pineapple and mango
- Warm maple syrup or coconut syrup
- Crispy bacon or Portuguese sausage
- Pair with Kona coffee for an authentic Hawaiian breakfast experience
FAQs
Can I make the custard mixture ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting too soggy?
Don’t soak the rolls for too long – 15-20 seconds per side is sufficient. Ensure your pan is properly preheated before cooking.
Can I use frozen Hawaiian rolls?
Yes, but thaw them completely and let them come to room temperature before using.
What’s the best way to serve these for a crowd?
Keep cooked pieces warm in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes. Place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Elevate your breakfast game with this incredible Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe. The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls and rich custard creates an unforgettable morning treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this Hawaiian Roll French Toast a try and join thousands of home cooks who’ve discovered this delicious twist on classic French toast. For more breakfast inspiration, check out our Lilikoi Pancakes or Coconut Macadamia Nut Waffles recipes!