Hawaiian Roll French Toast

# **Hawaiian Roll French Toast: A Tropical Breakfast Delight** 🍍🍞🍯

Indulge in the perfect fusion of sweet and fluffy with this **Hawaiian Roll French Toast**! Made with soft, pillowy Hawaiian rolls soaked in a rich vanilla custard, griddled to golden perfection, and drizzled with coconut syrup, this dish transforms breakfast into a tropical getaway. The natural sweetness of the rolls pairs beautifully with the custard, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both comforting and luxurious.

Whether you’re serving a crowd for brunch or treating yourself to a special morning, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

## **📝 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)**

### **French Toast:**
– 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (kept in 2 connected slabs of 6)
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– Pinch of salt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)

### **Toppings (Optional but Recommended):**
– Coconut syrup or maple syrup
– Fresh pineapple chunks or slices
– Toasted coconut flakes
– Whipped cream
– Powdered sugar
– Macadamia nuts (chopped)

## **📜 History & Origin**

French toast dates back to ancient Rome, where it was known as *”Pan Dulcis”*—a way to use stale bread by soaking it in milk and eggs. Over time, it evolved into the beloved breakfast dish we know today.

This **Hawaiian Roll French Toast** puts a modern twist on the classic by using **Hawaiian sweet rolls**, which originated in the 1950s when Portuguese immigrants introduced their sweet bread (*”Pão Doce”*) to Hawaii. Their soft, buttery texture makes them perfect for French toast, absorbing custard beautifully while keeping a light, fluffy interior.

## **🔥 Cooking Methods**

### **1. Traditional Griddle Method**
– Best for a crispy exterior & custardy center.
– Cook on medium heat in butter until golden brown.

### **2. Oven-Baked Method**
– Great for serving a crowd.
– Arrange soaked rolls on a baking sheet, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins.

### **3. Air Fryer Method**
– Quick & crispy.
– Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes.

## **🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions**

### **Step 1: Prepare the Custard**
1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.

### **Step 2: Soak the Rolls**
2. Keep the Hawaiian rolls in their connected slabs (two sets of 6 rolls).
3. Dip each slab into the custard, allowing it to soak for **30-45 seconds per side** (don’t oversoak or they’ll get mushy).

### **Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection**
4. Heat a skillet or griddle over **medium heat** and melt butter.
5. Place the soaked rolls on the skillet and cook for **3-4 minutes per side**, until golden brown and slightly crispy.

### **Step 4: Serve & Garnish**
6. Plate the French toast and drizzle with **coconut syrup** (or maple syrup).
7. Top with **fresh pineapple, toasted coconut, whipped cream, or powdered sugar** for extra tropical flair.

## **💪 Nutritional Benefits (Per Serving)**

| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|—————|——————|
| Calories | 280-320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40-45g |
| Protein | 8-10g |
| Fat | 10-12g |
| Fiber | 1-2g |
| Sugar | 18-22g |

✅ **Eggs & Milk** → High-quality protein & calcium.
✅ **Hawaiian Rolls** → Quick energy from carbs (great for active mornings).
✅ **Coconut Syrup** → Adds natural sweetness with a tropical twist.

## **❤️ Why French Toast Lovers Adore This Recipe**

– **Ultra-Fluffy Texture** – Hawaiian rolls stay soft inside while crisping up outside.
– **Naturally Sweet** – Less added sugar needed thanks to the rolls’ honey-butter flavor.
– **Versatile Toppings** – Endless pairing options (berries, nuts, syrups, etc.).
– **Perfect for Special Occasions** – Ideal for Mother’s Day, Christmas, or weekend brunch.

## **🎉 Conclusion: A Breakfast Worth Waking Up For!**

This **Hawaiian Roll French Toast** is the ultimate upgrade to a classic breakfast. With its **golden crust, custardy center, and tropical toppings**, it’s like a mini-vacation on a plate. Whether you’re a French toast enthusiast or just looking for a fun twist on breakfast, this recipe delivers **flavor, texture, and pure indulgence**.

**🍍 Serve it up, take a bite, and let the flavors transport you to paradise!** 🌴

**👩🍳 Loved this recipe? Try these next:**
– **Challah Bread French Toast**
– **Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake**
– **Banana-Stuffed French Toast**

Would you like any modifications or additional tips? 😊

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