Hawaiian Rolls French Toast

Introduction

There’s something incredibly delightful about transforming a classic dish into a sweet, indulgent treat, and that’s exactly what Hawaiian Rolls French Toast achieves. The soft, fluffy texture of Hawaiian sweet rolls paired with a rich custard mixture creates a breakfast that feels both special and comforting. My family absolutely adores this twist on French toast, especially on lazy weekend mornings when we have time to savor each bite. The combination of warm rolls, buttery goodness, and your choice of toppings makes this dish a hit at our breakfast table. Whether drizzled with syrup or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1 package (12 rolls) Hawaiian sweet rolls
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or any preferred milk)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)

Optional Toppings:

• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
• Whipped cream
• Nutella or chocolate sauce

Instructions

Prepare the Egg Mixture:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. Make sure the mixture is smooth, with no lumps.

Prep the Hawaiian Rolls:

2. Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally so that each roll is halved like a sandwich bun. This will create a perfect pocket for soaking in the egg mixture.

Dip the Rolls:

3. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt about 1 tablespoon of butter.
4. Dip each halved roll into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Let the excess drip off before placing the roll halves in the hot skillet.

Cook the French Toast:

5. Cook the rolls in the buttered skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The goal is to achieve a crispy exterior with a soft, custardy interior.
6. Repeat with the remaining rolls, adding more butter to the skillet as needed to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.

Serve:

7. Serve the Hawaiian Rolls French Toast warm with your favorite toppings. Whether you choose maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream, each option adds its own unique flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Serving Size: 2 halves of a roll
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm, immediately after cooking.
• Top with your choice of:
• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Whipped cream
• Nutella or chocolate sauce

Additional Tips

1. Choose Your Milk: While whole milk gives a rich flavor, you can use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
2. Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to add more sugar or honey to the egg mixture if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
3. Spice It Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge for quick assembly in the morning.
5. Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Stuffed Version: Add cream cheese or Nutella in between the rolls before dipping them in the egg mixture for a delicious stuffed French toast.
• Savory Twist: Replace the sugar with grated cheese and herbs for a savory version, perfect for brunch.
• Tropical Flair: Add crushed pineapple to the egg mixture for a tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the rolls.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with breakfast meats such as bacon or sausage for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer a variety of toppings so guests can customize their French toast.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked French toast. Allow it to cool completely, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the toaster or oven when ready to serve.
• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

• Yes, but the flavor and texture will be different. Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness.

1. How do I know when the French toast is cooked through?

• It should be golden brown on the outside and no longer wet on the inside.

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

• Absolutely! Use a dairy-free milk and replace the butter with a non-dairy option.

1. How can I add more flavor?

• Consider adding spices like nutmeg, or flavored extracts like almond or coconut.

1. What if I don’t have a skillet?

• A griddle or non-stick frying pan will work perfectly as well.

1. Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?

• You can prepare the egg mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight.

1. Can I use frozen Hawaiian rolls?

• Yes, thaw them before using.

1. What toppings do you recommend?

• Maple syrup, fresh berries, and whipped cream are popular choices, but feel free to get creative!

1. How long can I store leftovers?

• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

1. Can I double the recipe?
   • Yes! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, and use a larger skillet or cook in batches.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Rolls French Toast is a delightful twist on a beloved classic, perfect for brunch or breakfast any day of the week. Its sweetness and soft texture, combined with the endless possibilities of toppings, make it a favorite in our home. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, this recipe is sure to become a staple for your family gatherings or quiet mornings alike. Give it a try, and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more!

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