A Short Story About the Recipe
There’s something magical about French toast, and when you add the soft sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, you take this breakfast classic to a whole new level. This recipe came about on a lazy Sunday morning when I had some leftover Hawaiian rolls sitting on my counter. I didn’t want them to go to waste, but I was craving something different from the usual breakfast fare. That’s when the idea struck: Why not turn those sweet rolls into French toast?
As soon as I dunked the soft, pillowy rolls into a rich, vanilla-infused egg batter and let them sizzle in the pan, I knew I had created something special. The result? A French toast that’s more decadent than anything I’ve ever made before. The subtle sweetness of the rolls pairs perfectly with the egg custard, and when topped with syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s breakfast bliss in every bite.
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast has quickly become one of my favorite ways to kick off a lazy weekend. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a treat, but it’s so easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Versatile
This French toast is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special breakfast, brunch, or a weekend treat. You can easily double or halve the recipe to serve more or fewer people. Plus, you can get creative with toppings—fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Budget-Friendly
Hawaiian rolls are affordable and easy to find, making this recipe a budget-friendly way to enjoy a delicious breakfast. Plus, the ingredients like eggs, milk, and vanilla extract are pantry staples that you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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6 Hawaiian rolls (mini rolls or full-sized)
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4 large eggs
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1 cup whole milk
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
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Maple syrup (for serving)
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Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How to Make This Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the rolls
Start by slicing your Hawaiian rolls in half, creating sandwich-like pieces. If you’re using mini rolls, cut them into halves or quarters. If you’re using full-sized rolls, slice them into thick slices. Set them aside to prepare for the egg batter.
2. Make the egg batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the ingredients are well combined. The cinnamon will give the batter a warm, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the rolls.
3. Heat your pan
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the pan evenly. You want a nice, hot pan to ensure the French toast gets golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining soft on the inside.
4. Dip the rolls
Take each slice of Hawaiian roll and dip it into the egg batter, making sure to coat both sides. Allow the excess batter to drip off before placing the soaked roll into the hot skillet. You can cook several pieces at once, depending on the size of your pan.
5. Cook the French toast
Cook each slice of French toast for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure to keep an eye on them, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning. You want the French toast to cook evenly, with a beautiful, crispy exterior and a soft, custardy interior.
6. Keep warm
Once the French toast is cooked, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm by covering it loosely with aluminum foil. If you need to cook more batches, simply add a bit more butter to the pan between each round.
7. Serve and enjoy
Once all the French toast is cooked, it’s time to serve! Drizzle your favorite maple syrup over the top, and sprinkle a generous dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. You can also add fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent twist.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is surprisingly quick to make! It takes just about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for a weekend breakfast or brunch. The whole family will love it, and you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.
Customizable
Feel free to get creative with the toppings! Fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas would add a burst of color and freshness. You could also add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for even more sweetness. For a nutty twist, try topping with chopped pecans or walnuts.
Perfect for Guests
This French toast is a fantastic option for a brunch gathering or family breakfast. It’s easy to scale up the recipe for a larger crowd, and its sweet, indulgent flavors are sure to impress your guests. The best part? You can prepare it in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, if you can’t find Hawaiian rolls or simply prefer another type of bread, feel free to use a soft, slightly sweet bread like challah, brioche, or even a classic white sandwich bread. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to soak up the egg batter without falling apart.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While French toast is best served fresh, you can prepare the egg batter the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also pre-slice your rolls, so all you need to do the next morning is dip and cook. This will save you a few minutes in the morning.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, simply swap the whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk. You can also use dairy-free butter for frying, and the flavor will still be delicious.
Can I freeze leftover French toast?
Yes, you can! To freeze leftover French toast, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, just pop it in the toaster or oven for a few minutes until heated through.
What can I do if the French toast isn’t crispy enough?
If your French toast isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try increasing the heat slightly to ensure the butter is sizzling before you add the soaked bread. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the pan—give each slice enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, you can cook it in batches.