If you’ve been dreaming of a breakfast that’s sweet, pillowy, and absolutely irresistible, you’re in for a treat! Hawaiian Roll French Toast transforms the beloved soft Hawaiian rolls into a golden, custardy delight, perfect for slow mornings or lively brunches with friends. Each bite is a luscious balance of buttery richness, a hint of vanilla and cinnamon warmth, and that signature light sweetness only Hawaiian rolls can bring. Trust me, once you’ve tried Hawaiian Roll French Toast, there’s simply no going back to ordinary French toast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, thoughtful ingredients—each one shines, working together to make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast unforgettable! From the luxurious cream to the cozy notes of cinnamon, nothing here is complicated but each element is essential.
- Hawaiian sweet rolls (12): Their signature soft texture and subtle sweetness take this French toast to new heights—day-old rolls work especially well!
- Large eggs (4): Eggs create the custardy base, binding everything together with richness.
- Whole milk (¾ cup): Adds creaminess to the custard without weighing it down—don’t skimp here.
- Heavy cream (¼ cup): A little bit of heavy cream ups the decadence and makes your French toast extra tender.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Just enough to amplify the sweetness that’s already in the Hawaiian rolls.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings a cozy, aromatic note that elevates every bite.
- Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Offers a gentle spice that pairs beautifully with the vanilla and sweet rolls.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): A pinch brings all the flavors into perfect balance—don’t skip it!
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, for cooking): Butter makes each side golden and gives that delicious, slightly crispy edge.
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup (for serving): Spoonfuls of sweetness and a classic finish.
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas (optional): For a bright, fresh pop and a burst of color on your plate.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Whisk Up the Custard Mixture
Grab a medium bowl and let’s build that luscious custard base! Whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and thoroughly combined. This golden mixture is what transforms the rolls from bread into true French toast magic.
Step 2: Prep the Hawaiian Rolls
Decide if you want pull-apart style or individual pieces—keep the Hawaiian rolls whole and connected for a shareable, fun version, or separate them for a classic, bite-sized approach. Either way, these rolls are primed to soak up all that custard goodness.
Step 3: Dip and Soak
Working gently, dip each roll (or connected section) into the egg mixture. Let them soak briefly—just enough to absorb the custard but not so long that they fall apart. This step is key to ensuring your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is rich and custardy without becoming soggy.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Preheat your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt about 1 tablespoon of butter. Place your soaked rolls onto the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning gently until every surface is caramelized and golden. Repeat with remaining rolls, adding more butter as needed for that irresistible crisp edge.
Step 5: Finish and Serve Warm
Transfer the Hawaiian Roll French Toast to plates or a platter. Dust with a generous shower of powdered sugar, drizzle with warm maple syrup, and top with fresh fruit if you like. Serve them while they’re still hot and enjoy the magic!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Garnishes
Garnishes make a big difference! A light sprinkle of powdered sugar creates a snowy effect, while a glossy drizzle of maple syrup soaks into the nooks of the rolls. You can add a scoop of whipped cream, fresh berries, or even sliced bananas for extra color and freshness on your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Side Dishes
Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with crisp bacon, savory sausage, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast feast. If you’re feeling celebratory, a cappuccino or mimosa takes things up a notch for brunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, serve the connected pull-apart version right in the center of the table so everyone can tear off a piece! Layer on toppings buffet-style for an interactive breakfast, or skewer individual rolls with fruit for a playful twist on traditional French toast sticks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let your Hawaiian Roll French Toast cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. Enjoy within 2 days for best flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze French toast easily! Layer cooked, cooled rolls between parchment sheets, pop them into a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to a month. Just reheat straight from frozen whenever that French toast craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat Hawaiian Roll French Toast in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through and slightly crisped on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rolls a bit rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rolls?
You can, but nothing really rivals the soft sweetness of Hawaiian rolls in this recipe. Brioche or challah are decent substitutes if you must, but the essence of Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about those signature rolls.
How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
Dip each roll for just a few seconds, allowing them to soak up enough custard without turning mushy. Day-old rolls hold up better, keeping their shape even after soaking and frying.
Can I bake the French toast instead of frying?
Absolutely! Arrange the soaked rolls in a buttered baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes. This method is great for feeding a crowd and ensures even cooking with minimal fuss.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Kids love the pull-apart nature and bite-sized portions of Hawaiian Roll French Toast, especially with a dusting of powdered sugar and fun toppings like bananas or berries.
Can I make the custard mixture ahead of time?
Yes! Whisk together your custard mixture the night before and refrigerate. When you’re ready to make breakfast, simply give it a good stir and proceed as directed.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, one batch of Hawaiian Roll French Toast and you’ll be hooked for life! It’s that perfect mix of indulgent and easy, and I truly hope you’ll gather up some sweet rolls and make this magic happen. Happy breakfasting!
Print
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delicious twist on classic French toast with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe. Sweet and fluffy Hawaiian rolls are transformed into a decadent breakfast treat that’s perfect for weekend brunch or special occasions.
Ingredients
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (left whole or separated)
Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Serving:
- powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving
- Optional: fresh berries or sliced bananas
Instructions
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Prepare Rolls: If using connected rolls, leave them whole for a pull-apart style, or separate them if preferred.
- Cooking: Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Dip each roll (or connected section) into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak briefly but not get soggy. Cook the rolls on the skillet for 2–3 minutes per side, turning gently, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Repeat with remaining rolls, adding more butter as needed. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup and optional fresh fruit.
Notes
- Day-old Hawaiian rolls work best as they hold their shape better when soaked.
- For a crowd, bake the dipped rolls in a buttered dish at 350°F for 20–25 minutes instead of pan-frying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 rolls
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
