This Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a fun twist on a breakfast classic! Soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls soak up eggs and milk, making each bite delightful.
Honestly, who could resist such a yummy start to the day? I love adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for that extra sweetness. It’s like a breakfast party on your plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hawaiian Rolls: These sweet, soft rolls are key to the dish’s flavor. If you can’t find them, dinner rolls or brioche can work well too. Just ensure they have a subtle sweetness.
Eggs: Large eggs are perfect for binding everything together. If you want a vegan option, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) or a store-bought egg replacer.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk gives great richness. For a lighter version, almond milk or oat milk offers a nice alternative. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep flavors balanced.
Brown Sugar: This adds depth and a caramel note. If you’re out, granulated sugar or coconut sugar can substitute. Just note that it may change the sweetness slightly.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Ground spices elevate the dish. If you’re not a fan of nutmeg, you can skip it or try using cardamom for a different flavor twist.
How Do I Ensure My French Toast is Perfectly Soaked?
Soaking the rolls properly is crucial for that dreamy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly so all ingredients blend well.
- After cutting the rolls, lay them cut side up in a shallow dish to maximize soaking.
- Pour the mixture evenly and let them soak for 5-10 minutes. The longer they sit, the more custard they absorb, which means a creamier result.
- If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a bit of coconut milk to the mixture.
How to Make Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to cook if you choose to bake. If cooking on the stovetop, it will take around 15 minutes in total. So, you can have a delicious breakfast ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to bake the French toast. If you’re cooking it right on the stovetop, you can skip this step! Get everything ready for your delicious dish.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Make sure it’s all mixed well, and you’ll have a lovely custard mixture ready to soak your rolls!
3. Soak the Rolls
Now, cut the Hawaiian rolls in half and place them in a baking dish or shallow dish with the cut side facing up. Pour your egg mixture evenly over the rolls, making sure they’re well soaked. Let them soak for about 5-10 minutes so they can absorb that yummy custard.
4. Heat the Skillet
If you’re cooking on the stovetop, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s foamy. If you’re baking, you can skip to step 6.
5. Cook the Rolls
Carefully place the soaked rolls in the skillet, cut side down. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown, then flip them and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through. Smell that goodness!
6. Baking Option
If you’re baking, after soaking the rolls, just place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re set and lightly browned. The aroma will be amazing!
7. Dust and Serve
Once cooked (either on the stovetop or in the oven), remove the French toast from heat. Dust the tops with powdered sugar, making them look extra special.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your warm Hawaiian Roll French Toast with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy every delicious bite of this sweet breakfast treat!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a sweet touch, you can substitute them with other soft bread varieties like brioche, challah, or even regular sandwich bread. Just ensure that the bread is soft and can soak up the egg mixture well.
What If I Want to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
No problem! You can use plant-based milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, in place of regular milk. The flavor will still be delicious, and you can also consider using a dairy-free butter substitute for cooking.
Can I Prepare This French Toast Mixture the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare the egg mixture and soak the rolls in the dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply cook them on the stovetop or bake them as directed. This makes for a convenient breakfast option!
How Should I Store Leftover French Toast?
If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or warm them up in a skillet over low heat for best results. Add a splash of milk while reheating to keep them moist!
