Name: Hawaiian Roll French Toast: A Sweet Morning Indulgence
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 large Eggs (Provides structure and richness); 1 cup Milk (Can use almond or oat milk for dairy-free); ½ cup Heavy Cream (For a rich custard, can replace with extra milk); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla for best flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust to taste); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Can substitute with brown sugar or a sugar alternative); 12 rolls Hawaiian Rolls (The star of the recipe; brioche or challah can be used); 2 tablespoons Butter (For greasing the skillet; can use coconut oil as a dairy-free substitute); to taste Powdered Sugar (Optional for dusting); to taste Maple Syrup (Can substitute with honey or agave)

The aroma of sweet, warm Hawaiian Roll French Toast wafting from the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s morning brighter. With just a few simple ingredients and only 25 minutes of your time, this breakfast delight transforms everyday rolls into an indulgent treat that’s both fluffy and rich. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can customize each serving to suit your mood, whether you prefer a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing family and friends during weekend brunches or enjoying a cozy breakfast at home. Are you ready to elevate your breakfast game with some Hawaiian Roll magic? Let’s dive in!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast Special?

Indulgent Flavor: The luscious custard soaked into the Hawaiian rolls creates a mouthwatering experience, blending sweetness with a hint of cinnamon.
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delicious breakfast that looks and tastes gourmet, perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends.
Customizable Delight: Top it with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or nuts to create your signature serving, allowing everyone to enjoy their own twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, turning any brunch into a memorable event. Optionally, pair it with a smoothie for a wholesome breakfast ensemble.
Versatile Base: Not only can you use Hawaiian rolls, but you can also swap in brioche or challah for different flavor profiles. Experiment with your favorite bread and create endless variations of this delightful recipe!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

• The secret to this indulgent treat!

For the Custard

Eggs – Provides structure and richness; using large eggs ensures the best results.
Milk – Adds moisture and creaminess; almond or oat milk can make it dairy-free.
Heavy Cream – Contributes to a rich custard; feel free to replace it with extra milk for a lighter option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; adjust to your preference.
Sugar – Adds sweetness to the custard; you can substitute brown sugar or a sugar alternative for lower calories.

For the Rolls

Hawaiian Rolls – The star of the recipe, offering soft sweetness; can also use brioche or challah for variety.

For Cooking

Butter – Used to grease the skillet and adds flavor; coconut oil can be a great dairy-free substitute.

For Serving

Powdered Sugar – For a delightful dusting before serving; this is optional if you prefer a lighter touch.
Maple Syrup – Drizzle over the top for added sweetness; honey or agave can be used as tasty alternatives.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare Egg Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, ½ cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, ensuring no lumps remain. This custard will be the rich base for your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, so take your time to achieve a silky texture.

Step 2: Cut Rolls
Carefully slice 12 Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom piece for each roll. This preparation will allow the custard to soak in easily. Place the halved rolls on a clean cutting board or plate, ensuring they are ready for the next step without delay, as you want to keep the custard fresh and flavorful.

Step 3: Dip Rolls
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and add 2 tablespoons of butter to coat the bottom. Once the butter has melted and starts to foam, take each roll half and dip it into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated but not overly soggy. Aim for a quick dip to keep the rolls fluffy and light. Maintain the skillet’s temperature throughout this process for even cooking.

Step 4: Cook Rolls
Place the dipped rolls onto the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the rolls are golden brown and slightly crisp. Keep an eye on their progress, and adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning. Proper browning ensures the texture of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast is both inviting and delicious.

Step 5: Serve
Once golden brown, remove the cooked rolls from the skillet and arrange them neatly on a serving platter. Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, and drizzle with maple syrup just before serving. This final touch adds sweetness to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, making it a delightful morning indulgence everyone will adore.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Don’t Over-Soak: Avoid soaking the rolls too long in the custard mixture to maintain their fluffy texture. A quick dip is enough!
Heat Management: Keep your skillet at a steady medium heat to ensure even cooking. Too high will burn the outside while leaving the inside soggy.
Alternative Breads: Experiment with brioche or challah for a unique flavor twist; just remember, use the same soaking method for the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast results.
Fresh Toppings: Enhance your dish with fresh berries, nuts, or whipped cream for texture and flavor. Customize it to your liking!
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for the best texture—microwaving may lead to sogginess.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Embrace your creativity and transform this delicious recipe with unique twists to truly make it your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cow’s milk and cream with almond milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free delight.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a warm, aromatic twist.
Fruit-Filled: Stuff the rolls with sliced bananas or strawberries before dipping to create an indulgent surprise.
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the custard for an added crunch and wholesome taste.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Mix in chocolate chips with the custard or sprinkle on top for a sweet, gooey center.
Savory Spin: Use a savory Hawaiian roll and add cooked bacon or sausage bits to the custard mixture for a fun breakfast twist.
Maple Pecan Topping: Sauté pecans in maple syrup and butter for a luxurious topping that adds texture and flavor. Serve warm!
Tropical Theme: Top with toasted coconut and pineapple chunks for a stunning tropical breakfast that transports you to paradise.

Feel free to explore these variations and create a Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience that’s uniquely yours! Remember to check out our tips on making the perfect custard and fresh fruit toppings for even more delicious ideas!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Start your morning off right by creating a well-rounded breakfast that delights the senses and complements the sweetness of this indulgent dish!

Fresh Berries: A medley of berries offers a burst of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the French toast beautifully. Their vibrant colors make your plate look even more inviting.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon provides a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy texture of the French toast, making each bite an exciting mix of flavors.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a rich, tangy element that complements the dish’s sweetness and helps lighten the breakfast experience.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, this tropical twist enhances the Hawaiian theme and adds a luxurious touch to your serving. A perfect match for indulgence!
Maple Pecan Syrup: Drizzling a warm, nutty maple syrup brings out the caramelized notes of the rolls and adds another layer of richness that is impossible to resist!
Fruit Smoothie: A refreshing fruit smoothie serves as a complementary drink that not only hydrates but also introduces fresh flavors to the table, completing the breakfast spread.
Caramelized Banana Slices: The sweet, warm caramelized bananas provide a comforting, decadent topping that pairs perfectly with the French toast, making it feel like a special treat.
Cinnamon Sugar Toast: For a nostalgic addition, serve some cinnamon sugar toast on the side for delightful crunch and flavor that echoes the main dish.

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours for optimal taste and safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or skillet to restore crispness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap cooked Hawaiian Roll French Toast tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Avoid microwaving as it can make the French toast soggy; instead, use an oven or skillet for best results.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast on busy mornings! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the Hawaiian rolls and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply dip the rolls into the prepared custard and cook them as instructed. This way, you’ll have delightful, golden-brown French toast that’s just as delicious and ready with minimal effort!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! When selecting Hawaiian rolls, look for those that are soft and springy, with a slight sheen on the surface. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this may indicate overripeness. Freshness is key, so opt for rolls from the bakery section or your local grocery store.

What’s the best way to store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I suggest using a toaster oven or skillet, as this will help maintain the crisp texture. Simply warm them over medium heat for a couple of minutes until heated through, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Of course! To freeze, wrap each slice of cooked Hawaiian Roll French Toast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in your refrigerator overnight, and then reheat in the oven or skillet to return them to their golden, fluffy glory.

What if my French toast mixture is too runny?
Don’t worry, it can happen! If you’ve found your custard mixture to be too runny, try adding an extra egg or a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up. Blend well until smooth. You can also let it sit for a few minutes to allow the mixture to thicken slightly before dipping the rolls.

Are there any dietary considerations for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! This French toast can easily cater to various dietary preferences. For a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut cream. If you’re making this for someone with allergies, ensure none of your ingredients contain allergens like nuts or gluten, especially if using alternative bread options. Just check the labels and choose accordingly!

Can I prepare the custard mixture ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the custard mixture a day in advance. Simply whisk together the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. When you’re ready to cook, give the mixture a quick stir before dipping the Hawaiian rolls. This make-ahead tip saves time in the morning and lets you enjoy your breakfast with ease!