Delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe: Sweet & Fluffy

Try this easy and delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe for a sweet and fluffy breakfast treat. Perfect for brunch, it’s quick to make and packed with flavor!

For another variation of this classic dish. Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Perfect Brunch or Breakfast Recipe or If you’re hosting a brunch, try these recipes How to Make Sourdough French Toast .

Introduction to Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on the traditional French toast recipe, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This dish incorporates the soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls as the base, which makes it stand out from the classic version that usually uses regular bread. The soft, fluffy texture of the rolls absorbs the egg mixture beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish that is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You Need to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To create a delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need the following ingredients. This recipe serves approximately 4 people.

Essential Ingredients:

• 6 Hawaiian rolls (cut into thick slices)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (you can also use almond milk or other non-dairy alternatives)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
• Pinch of salt

For Cooking:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying the toast)

Optional Toppings and Variations:

• Maple syrup (to drizzle on top)
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Powdered sugar (for a light dusting)
• Whipped cream (for extra indulgence)
• Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)
• Sliced bananas or other fruit toppings

These ingredients will help you prepare a delicious and flavorful Rolls that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion! Feel free to experiment with toppings or spices to make it your own.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is easy and fun! Follow these simple steps to prepare this mouthwatering dish.

1. Preparing the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out. Slice the Hawaiian rolls into thick slices, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. This will give you a nice, hearty base that soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart. Set the sliced rolls aside.

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 eggs and whisk them until smooth. Add 1 cup of milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional), 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional), and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until well combined, creating a smooth custard mixture. This will be the soaking liquid for your rolls.

2. Soaking the Hawaiian Rolls

Place each slice of Hawaiian roll into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Be careful not to soak the bread for too long, as the rolls are soft and can become soggy quickly. About 20-30 seconds per side is sufficient for the rolls to absorb the custard without getting too wet.

Once soaked, gently remove each slice from the mixture, letting any excess liquid drip off before placing it on a plate or tray.

3. Cooking the French Toast

Heat 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is sizzling slightly, carefully place the soaked Hawaiian roll slices onto the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy. Then, flip the slices and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, until both sides are nicely browned and the center is fully cooked.

If you’re making a large batch, you can keep the cooked French toast slices warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you cook the rest.

4. Serving and Toppings

Once all the slices are cooked, arrange them on a plate and get creative with your toppings. You can drizzle warm maple syrup over the French toast, dust it with powdered sugar, or top it with fresh fruit like berries, banana slices, or a dollop of whipped cream. For extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a perfect batch of French toast that’s sweet, soft, and perfectly crispy.

Tips for Perfecting Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips that can help you elevate your dish:

1. The Right Cooking Temperature for Crispiness

One of the key factors in achieving perfectly crispy French toast is the cooking temperature. If your pan is too hot, the outside may burn before the inside cooks through, and if it’s too cool, the bread will absorb too much butter and become soggy. The ideal temperature is medium heat. This allows the French toast to cook evenly and develop a golden-brown crust while maintaining a soft, custardy interior.

2. Use Fresh Hawaiian Rolls

For the best results, use fresh Hawaiian rolls. These rolls are slightly sweet and soft, which gives the French toast its signature texture and flavor. Stale rolls won’t soak up the custard mixture as well and may result in a dry, less flavorful dish. If you only have slightly stale rolls, try cutting them and letting them sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit before soaking.

3. Don’t Over-Soak the Rolls

While it’s tempting to soak the Hawaiian rolls for longer to ensure they absorb all the custard mixture, doing so can make them too soggy. Hawaiian rolls are soft by nature, so a quick dip of 20-30 seconds per side is all you need. This ensures they cook up golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.

4. Use Real Butter for Cooking

For the best flavor and texture, always use real butter for cooking your French toast. Butter creates a rich, crisp exterior that enhances the overall taste of the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut oil can also add a subtle tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.

5. Keep the Toast Warm

If you’re making a large batch, it’s important to keep the French toast warm while you finish cooking the rest. Simply place the cooked slices on a baking sheet in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F or 93°C) to keep them warm without overcooking them.

6. Experiment with Spices and Flavorings

While vanilla extract and cinnamon are classic additions to French toast, don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices and flavorings. A pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom can add a unique twist to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast. You can also try a splash of orange zest or almond extract for a different flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the rolls.

7. Let the Custard Mixture Sit for a Minute

Once you’ve whisked together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and other flavorings, let the custard mixture sit for a minute or two before using it. This gives the ingredients time to fully combine, resulting in a smoother mixture that coats the bread more evenly.

8. Add Texture with Toppings

The beauty of Hawaiian Roll French Toast lies in its versatility. Add texture and flavor with various toppings, such as fresh fruits, whipped cream, nuts, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also try drizzling caramel sauce or chocolate syrup for an indulgent treat. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find the combination that works best for your taste!

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make sure that your Hawaiian Roll French Toast comes out perfectly every time, offering a satisfying blend of sweet, crispy, and soft textures with every bite.

Nutritional Value of Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delicious and indulgent treat, but like many comfort foods, it’s important to consider its nutritional content. Here’s an overview of the nutritional value of a standard serving of Hawaiian Roll French Toast (using 6 Hawaiian rolls and the ingredients listed in the recipe above, serving approximately 4 people).

Caloric Breakdown

A single serving of Hawaiian Roll French Toast (1 slice) typically contains:

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Total Fat: 12-15 grams
• Saturated Fat: 6-8 grams
• Cholesterol: 75-85 mg
• Sodium: 300-400 mg
• Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
• Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugars: 12-16 grams
• Protein: 6-7 grams

Key Nutrients

• Vitamins and Minerals: Hawaiian Roll French Toast provides small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A (from butter and eggs), calcium (from milk), and iron. However, it’s not a significant source of many vitamins and minerals.
• Protein: The eggs and milk in the recipe provide a modest amount of protein, which is important for muscle repair and overall health.

Health Considerations

While Hawaiian Roll French Toast is delicious, it’s a high-calorie, high-sugar dish, making it more of a special treat than an everyday breakfast choice. The high sugar content comes from both the Hawaiian rolls and the optional syrups or toppings you might add. If you’re concerned about sugar intake or trying to reduce calories, consider the following adjustments:

• Use less sugar in the custard mixture.
• Skip the syrup or use a sugar-free alternative.
• Add fresh fruit for natural sweetness instead of sugar-laden toppings.
• Opt for whole-grain bread or a healthier bread alternative for a more fiber-rich option.
• Use lower-fat milk or a dairy-free substitute to cut down on fat content.

Balancing the Meal

Since Hawaiian Roll French Toast is rich in carbohydrates and fat, consider balancing it with a side of protein, such as a boiled egg or some turkey bacon, to make it more nutritionally complete. This helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and provides a well-rounded meal.

In conclusion, while Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a decadent and flavorful dish, it is best enjoyed occasionally and paired with healthier sides for a more balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Without Eggs?

Yes, you can make a version of Hawaiian Roll French Toast without eggs by using egg alternatives such as flaxseed meal, chia seeds, or silken tofu. These substitutions work well to bind the bread and create a custardy texture. For a more traditional egg-free mixture, you can use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk along with a little vanilla extract and cornstarch to help thicken the mixture.

2. How Can I Make a Vegan Version of Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg, and use plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk). Replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil for frying. Ensure your Hawaiian rolls are also vegan by checking the ingredients or choosing a suitable alternative.

3. Can I Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time. After cooking, allow the slices to cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster or bake in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.

4. What Toppings Go Best with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

There are many delicious toppings that pair well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Some popular choices include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries (like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries), whipped cream, and chopped nuts. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for a richer flavor.

5. How Long Should I Soak the Hawaiian Rolls?

You should soak each slice of Hawaiian roll for about 20-30 seconds per side. Be careful not to soak them for too long, as the rolls are soft and can become overly soggy. Just ensure both sides are coated in the egg mixture before cooking.

6. Can I Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Yes, you can freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely, then place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer bag or airtight container. To reheat, bake the frozen slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast offers a sweet and indulgent twist on a beloved breakfast classic. With its soft and fluffy texture, paired with the rich, golden-brown exterior, this dish is sure to be a hit at any brunch or family gathering. By following the easy steps and tips provided, you can create the perfect batch of French toast, whether you’re keeping it simple or adding your favorite toppings for an extra touch of sweetness.

While it’s a treat to enjoy on occasion, Hawaiian Roll French Toast can also be adapted to suit different dietary needs, from eggless versions to vegan alternatives. Whatever your preference, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that will surely satisfy your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and enjoy a delicious breakfast experience!

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