In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every aspect of creating the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast – from selecting the finest ingredients to mastering techniques that ensure perfect results every time. We’ll dive into creative variations that can transform this dish to suit any season or preference, troubleshoot common pitfalls, and share expert tips that will elevate your breakfast game to professional levels. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to create a breakfast experience that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
So preheat that skillet, gather your ingredients, and prepare to embark on a breakfast adventure that celebrates the joy of good food shared with those you love. The humble Hawaiian roll is about to become the star of your morning table.
What Makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast Special
In the vast universe of breakfast options, Hawaiian Roll French Toast stands out as a uniquely satisfying creation that transcends ordinary morning fare. But what exactly makes this dish so special? Let’s explore the distinctive qualities that have made this recipe a beloved favorite among breakfast enthusiasts.
The Perfect Canvas: Hawaiian Rolls
At the heart of this culinary creation is the Hawaiian roll itself – a slightly sweet, pillowy bread with a buttery flavor profile that sets it apart from typical French toast breads. Created in the 1950s by Robert Taira in Hilo, Hawaii, these rolls have a distinctive golden color and tender texture derived from pineapple juice and potato flour in the original recipe. This sweetness and softness make them the perfect canvas for absorbing the egg custard mixture without becoming soggy or falling apart during cooking.
The compact size of Hawaiian rolls also creates an ideal bread-to-custard ratio, ensuring that each bite delivers the perfect balance of crisp exterior and custardy interior. Their natural sweetness complements the vanilla and cinnamon in the egg mixture, creating a harmonious flavor profile that needs less added sugar than traditional French toast recipes.
Textural Symphony
The magic of Hawaiian Roll French Toast lies in its extraordinary textural contrasts. When properly prepared, each piece delivers:
- A caramelized, slightly crisp exterior that provides a delightful crunch
- A custardy, tender middle layer where the bread has absorbed the egg mixture
- The distinctive pull-apart quality of Hawaiian rolls that creates interesting structural elements
- A softness that holds up to syrup and toppings without disintegrating
This textural symphony creates a more interesting eating experience than standard French toast, which can sometimes be one-dimensional in both flavor and mouthfeel.
Versatility and Convenience
Beyond its superior taste and texture, Hawaiian Roll French Toast offers remarkable versatility and convenience:
- The connected nature of the rolls in the package allows for both individual preparation or spectacular pull-apart presentations
- Their small size makes them perfect for portion control and serving varied preferences
- The natural sweetness reduces the need for excessive toppings for those watching sugar intake
- They cook more quickly and evenly than thick-cut breads, making them ideal for busy mornings
- Their durability makes them excellent for make-ahead preparations and batch cooking
For busy families or those hosting breakfast gatherings, these qualities make Hawaiian Roll French Toast not just delicious but practical – the rare recipe that combines gourmet appeal with everyday convenience.
A Backdrop for Creativity
Perhaps most importantly, Hawaiian Roll French Toast serves as the perfect backdrop for creative culinary expression. The slightly sweet base flavor complements everything from tropical fruits to decadent chocolate, allowing for endless variation. Whether stuffed with cream cheese, topped with macadamia nuts and coconut, or served with a savory twist alongside eggs and bacon, Hawaiian rolls adapt to whatever flavor profile you wish to explore.
This adaptability makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast more than just a recipe – it’s a template for breakfast innovation that can evolve with your tastes, the seasons, and whatever ingredients you have on hand.
In the following sections, we’ll explore how to harness these special qualities to create a breakfast experience that will delight everyone at your table.
Essential Ingredients
Creating the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast begins with selecting quality ingredients. Each component contributes to the final flavor profile and texture, making thoughtful selection essential for achieving breakfast perfection. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:
The Foundation: Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Quantity needed: 1 package (12 rolls)
Why it matters: The distinctive sweet, tender texture of Hawaiian rolls forms the foundation of this recipe. Look for King’s Hawaiian brand or similar sweet rolls with their characteristic golden color. The connected nature of these rolls in the package gives you options for preparation style – you can separate them for individual pieces or keep them connected for a dramatic pull-apart presentation.
Shopping tip: While King’s Hawaiian is the most widely recognized brand, many grocery stores offer their own versions of sweet rolls that work beautifully. Choose packages that feel soft and fresh, avoiding any that seem dry or stale.
The Custard Base
Eggs
Quantity needed: 4 large eggs
Why it matters: Eggs provide structure, richness, and binding properties to the custard mixture. The proteins in eggs coagulate during cooking, transforming the soaked bread from soggy to silky.
Shopping tip: Opt for fresh, large eggs at room temperature for the most even cooking. Farm-fresh eggs with bright orange yolks will provide the richest color and flavor.
Milk
Quantity needed: 1 cup
Why it matters: Milk adds moisture and creates the custard-like interior texture that defines great French toast. The fat content in milk also contributes to richness and helps prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly.
Shopping tip: Whole milk delivers the best texture and flavor, but 2% works well too. Plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk can be substituted but may alter the final taste and texture slightly.
Heavy Cream
Quantity needed: 1/4 cup
Why it matters: A touch of heavy cream adds luxurious richness and helps create that desirable custardy center.
Shopping tip: Real heavy cream (not half-and-half) yields the best results. For a lighter version, you can omit the cream and use 1 1/4 cups of whole milk instead.
Flavor Enhancers
Vanilla Extract
Quantity needed: 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Why it matters: Vanilla adds aromatic depth and complements the natural sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
Shopping tip: Pure vanilla extract rather than imitation provides significantly better flavor. Mexican or Madagascar vanilla varieties offer particularly warm, complex notes.
Ground Cinnamon
Quantity needed: 1 teaspoon
Why it matters: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice that balances the sweetness of the dish.
Shopping tip: Saigon or Ceylon cinnamon provides the most complex flavor. Purchase small quantities of ground cinnamon and replace regularly, as it loses potency quickly once ground.
Salt
Quantity needed: 1/4 teaspoon
Why it matters: A small amount of salt enhances all other flavors and creates balance. Never skip this ingredient, even in sweet dishes!
Shopping tip: Fine sea salt or table salt works perfectly here.
Sugar
Quantity needed: 2 tablespoons
Why it matters: A small amount of sugar helps create caramelization on the exterior of the French toast and enhances overall sweetness.
Shopping tip: Regular granulated sugar works well, but light brown sugar adds subtle molasses notes that complement the cinnamon beautifully.
For Cooking
Butter
Quantity needed: 4-6 tablespoons
Why it matters: Butter provides rich flavor and helps create the golden-brown exterior. The milk solids in butter contribute to delicious caramelization.
Shopping tip: Unsalted butter gives you better control over the salt content. European-style butter with higher fat content creates especially luxurious results.
Neutral Cooking Oil
Quantity needed: 1-2 tablespoons (optional)
Why it matters: Adding a small amount of neutral oil to the butter helps prevent burning, especially if cooking multiple batches.
Shopping tip: Canola, vegetable, or grapeseed oil all work well.
Optional Additions for Complexity
- Orange or lemon zest: 1/2 teaspoon adds bright citrus notes that cut through richness
- Nutmeg: A pinch freshly grated adds aromatic complexity
- Almond extract: 1/4 teaspoon creates a subtle nutty undertone
- Coconut extract: 1/4 teaspoon enhances the tropical association with Hawaiian rolls
For Serving
While the toppings are technically optional, they complete the Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience:
- Pure maple syrup: The classic choice that never disappoints
- Powdered sugar: For a beautiful finish and added sweetness
- Fresh berries: Adds color, tartness, and nutritional value
- Sliced bananas: Complements the Hawaiian theme beautifully
- Toasted coconut: Enhances the tropical flavor profile
- Whipped cream: For special occasion indulgence
By giving attention to each ingredient’s quality and purpose, you lay the foundation for a truly memorable breakfast experience. In the next section, we’ll explore the tools that will help you transform these quality ingredients into Hawaiian Roll French Toast perfection.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Creating magnificent Hawaiian Roll French Toast doesn’t require specialized equipment, but having the right tools on hand will significantly elevate your results and streamline the cooking process. Here’s a comprehensive overview of everything you’ll need to prepare this breakfast delicacy with precision and ease:
Essential Equipment
Mixing Bowl
Why it matters: You’ll need a medium to large bowl for whisking together your custard mixture. The ideal bowl should be wide enough to allow for vigorous whisking without splashing.
Recommendation: A 2-3 quart bowl with a non-slip bottom works perfectly. Glass or stainless steel bowls are ideal as they don’t retain odors or stains.
Whisk
Why it matters: A good whisk ensures your egg mixture is properly emulsified for even cooking and flavor distribution.
Recommendation: A medium-sized balloon whisk with thin, flexible wires creates the smoothest custard. Silicone-coated whisks can be gentler on non-stick cookware if you’re mixing directly in your pan.
Shallow Dish
Why it matters: For the dipping process, a shallow dish with enough surface area to accommodate the Hawaiian rolls makes the soaking process neater and more efficient.
Recommendation: A 9×13 baking dish or large pie plate works perfectly. The low sides make it easy to flip the rolls in the custard mixture.
Cooking Surface
Why it matters: The right cooking surface ensures even heating and perfect caramelization.
Recommendation: A large non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan (10-12 inches) provides ideal heat distribution. An electric griddle set to 350°F offers great temperature control and allows you to cook multiple pieces simultaneously.
Spatula
Why it matters: A good spatula lets you flip the French toast gently without breaking it.
Recommendation: A wide, thin-edged silicone or nylon spatula works best with non-stick surfaces. For cast iron, a metal fish spatula provides excellent control.
Timer
Why it matters: Precise timing helps achieve the perfect balance of crisp exterior and custardy interior.
Recommendation: A digital timer with a loud alert ensures you won’t overcook your French toast while attending to other breakfast preparations.
Helpful Additions
Measuring Tools
Why they matter: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.
Recommendation: A set of measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients, plus a clear glass measuring cup with pour spout for liquids.
Instant-Read Thermometer
Why it matters: For food safety and perfect doneness, the center of your French toast should reach 165°F.
Recommendation: Any basic digital instant-read thermometer will help you ensure your custard is properly cooked, especially important when serving young children or immunocompromised individuals.
Warming Tray or Oven
Why it matters: To serve everyone hot French toast simultaneously, you’ll need a way to keep early batches warm.
Recommendation: A sheet pan in a 200°F oven works perfectly. Place a wire rack inside the sheet pan to prevent the bottoms from becoming soggy.
Serving Tools
Why they matter: The right serving tools make presentation more impressive and serving easier.
Recommendation: A wide serving spatula, small pitchers for syrup, and small bowls for additional toppings create an inviting breakfast spread.
Storage Containers
Why they matter: Proper storage containers help preserve leftovers (if there are any!).
Recommendation: Airtight containers with dividers prevent the French toast pieces from sticking together when refrigerated.
Nice-to-Have Specialties
Batter Dispenser
Why it matters: For those who make French toast frequently, a batter dispenser with a wide mouth makes the custard-pouring process neater.
Recommendation: Look for models with measurement markings and a comfortable handle.
French Toast Sticks Cutter
Why it matters: If serving kids or creating a finger-food version, specialized cutters create perfect French toast sticks.
Recommendation: Simply cutting the Hawaiian rolls into thirds after cooking works just as well.
Powdered Sugar Shaker/Sifter
Why it matters: For picture-perfect presentation, a dedicated powdered sugar shaker creates an even, light dusting.
Recommendation: A fine-mesh sifter or specialized sugar wand both work beautifully.
With these tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to create Hawaiian Roll French Toast that’s not only delicious but also a joy to prepare. The right equipment minimizes frustration and maximizes your ability to focus on the techniques that truly elevate this special breakfast dish.
The Classic Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Now that we’ve explored what makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast special and covered the essential ingredients and tools, it’s time to dive into the classic recipe that serves as the foundation for all variations. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence, allowing the unique qualities of Hawaiian rolls to shine while delivering that quintessential French toast experience.
Classic Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 (3 pieces per person)
Ingredients:
For the French Toast:
- 1 package (12 count) King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (optional, for cooking)
For Serving:
- Pure maple syrup
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh berries (optional)
- Sliced bananas (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Preparation Method Overview
Before diving into the detailed instructions, here’s a high-level overview of the process you’ll follow:
- You’ll prepare the custard mixture by combining eggs, milk, cream, and flavorings
- The Hawaiian rolls will be carefully separated and soaked in the custard
- Each piece will be cooked to golden perfection in butter
- The finished French toast will be kept warm until serving
- Final garnishes will be added just before presenting to the table
This method ensures that each component of the dish receives proper attention, resulting in Hawaiian Roll French Toast that achieves the perfect balance of flavors and textures. In the next section, we’ll break down each step in detail to ensure your success.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast every time. Each step has been carefully developed to ensure optimal results, addressing common pitfalls and highlighting crucial techniques.
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
- Crack eggs into a medium mixing bowl. Inspect for shell fragments and remove if necessary.
- Add milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the eggs.
- Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is completely uniform with no visible egg white streaks. The custard should have a smooth, slightly thickened consistency and a pale yellow color. This typically takes about 1-2 minutes of vigorous whisking.
- Transfer the custard mixture to a shallow dish that will accommodate the Hawaiian rolls comfortably. A 9×13 baking dish or large pie plate works perfectly.
Chef’s Tip: Allow your eggs and dairy to come to room temperature before mixing for the smoothest custard and most even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls
- Gently separate the Hawaiian rolls along their natural seams. You can use a serrated knife if they don’t pull apart easily, but in most cases, they’ll separate cleanly by hand.
- Inspect each roll for any compressed or very dense areas. If you find any, gently press those sections with your fingers to create a more even texture throughout.
Chef’s Tip: If your Hawaiian rolls seem particularly fresh and soft, allow them to sit uncovered for 15-20 minutes before dipping. This slight “staling” helps them absorb the custard without falling apart.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
- Place 2-3 rolls in the custard mixture at a time, being careful not to overcrowd.
- Allow each side to soak for 15-20 seconds. The exact time will depend on how fresh your rolls are—fresher rolls need less soaking time.
- Test for proper saturation by gently pressing the center of a roll with your finger. It should feel moist but still hold its shape firmly.
- Transfer soaked rolls to a clean plate or sheet pan, allowing excess custard to drip back into the soaking dish.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t rush this process. Proper soaking ensures the perfect custardy interior without creating soggy French toast.
Step 4: Heat Your Cooking Surface
- Place a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of butter and (if using) 1 teaspoon of neutral oil to the pan. Allow the butter to melt completely and begin to foam slightly.
- Test the temperature by flicking a few drops of water into the pan—they should sizzle immediately but not aggressively.
Chef’s Tip: The ideal temperature is crucial—too hot and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too cool and the French toast will absorb too much fat and become greasy.
Step 5: Cook the French Toast
- Place 3-4 soaked rolls in the pan, leaving enough space between them to allow for easy flipping.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until golden brown. Peek underneath with your spatula to check color development.
- Flip each piece carefully using a spatula. Be decisive but gentle with your flipping motion.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes on the second side, or until golden brown and the center feels set when gently pressed.
- Transfer cooked pieces to a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep warm while cooking the remaining batches.
- Wipe the pan clean between batches if there are any burnt bits, and add fresh butter for each new batch.
Chef’s Tip: For extra decadence, add a small pat of butter on top of each piece as soon as you flip it.
Step 6: Final Temperature Check (Optional but Recommended)
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the center of the French toast has reached 165°F, especially if serving vulnerable populations.
- If the center hasn’t reached temperature but the outside is browning too quickly, transfer pieces to a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes to finish cooking through.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Arrange the warm French toast on warmed serving plates. For an impressive presentation, stack 3 pieces slightly offset from each other.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve held high above the plate for the most delicate coating.
- Serve immediately with warm maple syrup in a small pitcher on the side.
- Add optional fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream as desired.
Chef’s Tip: Heat your maple syrup in a small microwave-safe pitcher for 15-20 seconds before serving. Warm syrup maintains the temperature of your French toast longer and has a more pronounced flavor.
Troubleshooting During Cooking
- If French toast is browning too quickly: Lower your heat slightly and add a bit more oil to the butter.
- If custard seems to soak through too quickly: Your rolls may be too fresh. Try reducing soaking time to just 10 seconds per side.
- If French toast appears pale even after cooking: Your heat may be too low, or you may need to cook slightly longer on each side.
- If pieces are falling apart: Your soaking time may be too long. Try a quick dip rather than a soak for very fresh rolls.
By following these detailed steps, you’ll create Hawaiian Roll French Toast with the perfect balance of textures—a slightly crisp, caramelized exterior giving way to a tender, custardy interior, all while maintaining the distinctive pillowy quality of Hawaiian rolls.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of Hawaiian Roll French Toast can help you make informed decisions about portion sizes, frequency of enjoyment, and potential modifications to suit your dietary needs. While this breakfast is certainly an indulgence, being aware of its nutritional composition allows you to balance it within your overall eating pattern.
Standard Serving Analysis
The following nutritional information is approximate for one serving of Classic Hawaiian Roll French Toast (3 pieces) prepared according to the recipe provided, without optional toppings:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 425 | – |
| Total Fat | 22g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Trans Fat | 0g | – |
| Cholesterol | 230mg | 77% |
| Sodium | 400mg | 17% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45g | 16% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars | 15g | – |
| Added Sugars | 7g | 14% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Vitamin D | 1.5mcg | 8% |
| Calcium | 150mg | 12% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
| Potassium | 200mg | 4% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Common Toppings and Their Impact
Adding toppings will alter the nutritional profile. Here’s how common additions affect the numbers per serving:
| Topping | Added Calories | Added Sugar | Added Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Tbsp Pure Maple Syrup | 104 | 24g | 0g |
| 1 Tbsp Powdered Sugar | 30 | 8g | 0g |
| 1/2 Cup Fresh Berries | 40 | 5g | 0g |
| 1/2 Sliced Banana | 53 | 7g | 0g |
| 2 Tbsp Whipped Cream | 15 | 1g | 1g |
| 1 Tbsp Nut Butter | 95 | 1g | 8g |
| 1 Tbsp Chocolate Hazelnut Spread | 105 | 11g | 6g |
Dietary Considerations
Caloric Density: Hawaiian Roll French Toast is calorie-dense due to the combination of carbohydrate-rich bread and the fat from eggs, milk, cream, and butter. This makes it an energizing breakfast choice for active days but may warrant portion control for those monitoring caloric intake.
Protein Content: With approximately 12g of protein per serving (primarily from eggs and milk), this breakfast provides a moderate protein contribution to your daily needs. Adding a side of Greek yogurt or a small portion of breakfast meat can increase the protein content for greater satiety.
Fat Profile: The fat content comes primarily from eggs, dairy, and cooking butter. While saturated fat is present, the dish also contains beneficial monounsaturated fats, particularly if using butter for cooking. Those monitoring saturated fat intake may opt for plant-based milk alternatives and reduced cooking fat.
Carbohydrate Consideration: The carbohydrates come primarily from the Hawaiian rolls and added sugars in the custard mixture. Those monitoring blood sugar may wish to pair this dish with additional protein and fiber to moderate glycemic response.
Sodium Awareness: Hawaiian rolls contain more sodium than traditional bread, making this French toast moderately high in sodium even before adding salted toppings. Those on sodium-restricted diets should factor this into their daily planning.
Balancing Your Breakfast
For a more nutritionally balanced meal that includes Hawaiian Roll French Toast, consider:
- Reducing the portion size to 2 pieces instead of 3 and adding protein-rich sides
- Incorporating fresh fruit as a topping rather than additional sweet sauces
- Serving with a side of Greek yogurt for additional protein and probiotics
- Adding nuts or seeds as toppings for healthy fats and additional protein
- Including a small vegetable component such as a side of sautéed spinach or a small vegetable juice
Special Dietary Adaptations
Lower Sugar Option:
- Omit sugar from the custard mixture
- Use unsweetened plant milk
- Top with fresh berries instead of syrup
- Approximate calorie reduction: 70 calories per serving
Lower Fat Option:
- Use 2% milk and omit cream
- Reduce butter for cooking to 1 teaspoon per batch
- Use cooking spray for the pan
- Approximate calorie reduction: 120 calories per serving
Higher Protein Option:
- Add 1 scoop of unflavored protein powder to the custard mixture
- Serve with a side of cottage cheese
- Add hemp seeds as garnish
- Approximate protein increase: 15g additional protein
Understanding these nutritional aspects allows you to enjoy Hawaiian Roll French Toast as part of a balanced diet, making informed choices about frequency, portion size, and accompaniments based on your personal health goals.
Variations and Creative Twists
One of the most delightful aspects of Hawaiian Roll French Toast is its versatility as a canvas for creative flavor explorations. Here are five distinctive variations that transform the classic recipe into new culinary experiences, each with detailed instructions and serving suggestions.
Tropical Paradise Version
Transport your breakfast table to the shores of Hawaii with this island-inspired variation that emphasizes tropical flavors and textures.
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (replace half the regular milk)
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract
- 2 tablespoons shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 passion fruit, pulp extracted
- 1/4 cup macadamia nuts, toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey infused with dried hibiscus flowers
Method Modifications:
- Add coconut milk and extract to your custard mixture
- Sprinkle shredded coconut onto the soaking rolls before cooking for texture
- Cook as directed in the classic recipe
Serving Suggestion: Arrange the French toast on a plate and top with diced mango and passion fruit pulp. Scatter toasted macadamia nuts over the fruit and drizzle with hibiscus honey. For an extra touch, serve with a small sprinkler of lime zest and a sprig of mint.
Why It Works: The natural sweetness of Hawaiian rolls pairs beautifully with tropical fruits, while coconut adds depth and creates a true island flavor profile. The contrasting textures of soft French toast, juicy fruit, and crunchy nuts create a multi-dimensional eating experience.
Decadent Chocolate Stuffed Version
For special occasions or chocolate lovers, this indulgent variation transforms breakfast into an almost dessert-like experience that still maintains the integrity of classic French toast.
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- Chocolate sauce for drizzling
Method Modifications:
- Before separating rolls, use a serrated knife to cut a pocket into each roll
- Mix cream cheese, chocolate hazelnut spread, powdered sugar, and espresso powder
- Carefully fill each pocket with 1-2 teaspoons of the mixture and a few chocolate chips
- Add cocoa powder to your custard mixture
- Cook more gently than the classic version, using medium-low heat to ensure the filling warms through without burning the exterior
Serving Suggestion: Serve warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, and fresh raspberries for color contrast and tartness to balance the sweetness.
Why It Works: The natural air pockets in Hawaiian rolls make them perfect for stuffing, while their subtle sweetness complements the chocolate filling without becoming cloying. The light texture of the rolls prevents this variation from becoming too heavy despite its rich ingredients.
Savory Option
This savory twist demonstrates that Hawaiian Roll French Toast can move beyond sweet applications into brunch or lunch territory, creating a versatile dish that works throughout the day.
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, thyme, and parsley), finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 thin slices prosciutto
- 1 cup baby arugula
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- 4 poached eggs
Method Modifications:
- Omit sugar and vanilla from the custard mixture
- Add herbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper
Evan Lewis is the Head and chief editor of Indoorguider. By profession, he is a MasterChef in a five-star restaurant based in California, and by hobby he is a DIY man. Evan joined as a chef after completing a Diploma in professional cooking from USA. Besides this profession, he’s a researcher and hobbyist blogger and DIY expert. He loves discovering new things, researching them, and sharing them with people who need that information. Most of his time as a chef is spent with different kitchen utensils. He already shares his knowledge and experience with various kitchen tools, utensils, and food blogging and DIY stuff. This time he decided to write about one of the most needed kitchen tools and kitchen appliances. Therefore, he created this site, Indoorguider, and shared his experience, knowledge, and research results with people who have less knowledge about this tool. As a MasterChef of a five-star restaurant, Evan Lewis is not only experienced in cooking. He’s also experienced with different kitchen utensils, tools, and equipment. Besides, cooking he’s a hobbyist blogger. He does a lot of research on different kitchen tools for his blog and writes about them to help others, here at IndoorGuider. He shares his experience, knowledge, and research results for the benefit of people seeking different tools and cooking steps, tips, and recipes. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555977246806 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlewis9177/ Quora: Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/EvanLewisOfficial/ Pinterest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lewis-1157132b8/ Threads: Twitter: https://twitter.com/EvanLewis5656
