Name: Heavenly Hawaiian Roll French Toast for Irresistible Mornings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 large Eggs (for structure and richness); 1 cup Whole Milk (or dairy-free alternative); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (for flavor); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (or nutmeg as alternative); 2 tablespoons Sugar (can substitute with maple syrup or honey); 8 pieces Hawaiian Rolls (or brioche/challah as substitute); 2 tablespoons Butter (or any cooking fat); Powdered Sugar (optional, can substitute with cinnamon sugar); Maple Syrup (optional, alternatives include honey or agave syrup)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of toasting Hawaiian rolls filled the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-soaked beach morning. This is exactly how I stumbled upon making Hawaiian Roll French Toast—a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite that transforms your ordinary brunch into an unforgettable experience. The soft, fluffy texture of the rolls adds a deliciously unique richness, making this dish not just easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions, you can savor each bite without guilt, knowing you’ve elevated the breakfast game in mere minutes. Curious to discover how to bring this tropical delight to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast Special?

Uniqueness: Transform your breakfast with Hawaiian rolls, which are sweeter and softer than traditional bread.
Ease: This recipe is perfect for busy mornings, taking only minutes to prepare and cook.
Versatility: Customize with toppings like fresh fruits or crushed nuts, ensuring everyone will love it!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it for brunch, and watch as your guests rave about this delightful twist.
Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or even a smoothie for a complete meal—just like with my delicious Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the French Toast Batter

Eggs – Use large eggs for structure and richness.
Milk – Whole milk adds creaminess; substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream – Enhances richness; half-and-half works as a substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Pure vanilla extract deepens the flavor for best results.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; can be swapped with nutmeg for a different flavor.
Sugar – Sweetens the batter; maple syrup or honey can be used instead.

For the Toast

Hawaiian Rolls – The star of this dish, providing a sweet base; brioche or challah can substitute.
Butter – Adds flavor while cooking; any cooking fat can be used in a pinch.

For Garnish

Powdered Sugar (optional) – Perfect for dusting; can be replaced with cinnamon sugar if preferred.
Maple Syrup (optional) – Drizzle over the top, or opt for honey or agave syrup as alternatives.

With these simple ingredients, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will be transformed into a delightful and easy breakfast dish that tantalizes the taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until well-combined and frothy. This creamy custard will be the base for your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, enriching each bite with flavor and sweetness.

Step 2: Cut and Prepare the Rolls
Take 8 Hawaiian rolls and carefully slice each in half horizontally using a serrated knife. This gives you fluffy little boats to soak in the custard mixture, preparing them for their transformation into delightful French toast. Have your skillet or griddle ready nearby for the next step!

Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Preheat your skillet or non-stick griddle over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it gets hot enough for a perfect sear. Add in 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt completely and start to bubble but not brown. The sizzling sound will signal that your cooking surface is ready for those delicious Hawaiian rolls.

Step 4: Dip the Rolls
Taking one half of a Hawaiian roll at a time, gently dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is well-coated but not overly soggy. Let the excess custard drip off before placing it onto the hot skillet. This ensures that your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will be crisp on the outside while remaining fluffy and tender inside.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Place the soaked roll halves on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. Flip them over using a spatula and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes, observing how they lightly crisp up and absorb that sweet custard. The aroma will be irresistible!

Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, transfer the Hawaiian Roll French Toast to a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar for an appealing touch, and drizzle with warm maple syrup if desired. Enjoy the fluffy, custardy delight right away while it’s still warm, ensuring you make the most of its heavenly flavors!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Elevate your breakfast spread with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement this sweet and fluffy dish.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a vibrant burst of flavor, making each bite feel refreshing and light. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the richness of the French toast.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon contrasts enticingly with the soft sweetness of Hawaiian Roll French Toast, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of coconut whipped cream adds a tropical vibe while enhancing the creamy texture of the French toast. It’s a delightful finishing touch that feels like a treat!
Greek Yogurt: A small serving of tangy Greek yogurt offers a protein boost and a creamy element that balances the sweetness, while also providing a slightly tart flavor for a well-rounded meal.
Maple Pecan Granola: Add a sprinkle of maple pecan granola for a satisfying crunch and an elegant flavor profile. The maple notes harmonize perfectly, enhancing the overall sweetness of the dish.
Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie, made with banana, spinach, and almond milk will brighten your meal, adding a nutritious punch to start your day off right. It’s a creamy, easy drink that complements each bite!
Herbal Tea or Fresh Coffee: Pair your meal with a comforting cup of herbal tea or a robust coffee to enhance the breakfast experience. The warmth of a hot beverage will cozy up your morning, creating a perfect start to the day.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Why not get creative with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Here are some delightful twists to make it uniquely yours!

Tropical Addition: Add shredded coconut or diced pineapple to your egg mixture for a burst of sunshine in every bite. You’ll feel like you’re on a Hawaiian vacation with this fruity twist!
Spice It Up: Replace the cinnamon with cardamom or a dash of nutmeg to change the flavor profile beautifully. Each variation offers its own warmth, making your breakfast feel cozy!
Fruity Topping: Top your French toast with fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices for a fresh and colorful contrast. A drizzle of honey or agave syrup amplifies that sweetness to heavenly levels.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts over the top for a delightful texture contrast. The earthy crunch perfectly complements the soft and fluffy rolls.
Sweet Swap: Swap sugar for maple syrup, honey, or even brown sugar for a richer flavor profile. This subtle change can elevate your toast to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk and replace heavy cream with coconut cream. It’s a creamy alternative that keeps the taste scrumptious!
Personalize with Protein: Add a scoop of protein powder to your egg mixture for an extra wholesome kick. This is perfect for those seeking a filling breakfast before a busy day!

You can also pair your flavorful dish with sides like yogurt or a smoothie for a wholesome breakfast spread. If you enjoy fruity flavors, don’t forget to explore my delightful Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls for another sweet morning indulgence!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can prepare the egg mixture and slice the rolls up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the rolls from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful breakfast, just dip the prepared rolls into the custard and cook as instructed. For the best experience, avoid soaking the rolls too long to keep them fluffy and light. With these simple prep steps, you’ll have an effortless and delicious breakfast ready to serve in a snap!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to store it for longer, wrap the French toast tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to 1 month.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat frozen slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This way, they’ll retain their crispy exterior and fluffy inside.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the egg mixture and cut the rolls in advance, storing them separately in the fridge to save time when you’re ready to cook the Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Temperature Matters: Ensure your skillet is adequately preheated before cooking the rolls. This helps achieve that golden-brown crust without sogginess.
Perfect Soak: Dip the rolls quickly in the egg mixture to avoid overly soggy bread. A gentle coat is all you need for delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor in your batter; it makes a noticeable difference!
Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to gently flip the rolls; being too aggressive can cause them to break.
Garnish with Flair: Elevate your dish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for added sweetness and presentation.
Storage Solution: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat them in a toaster oven for optimal crispiness.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

Can I use overripe Hawaiian rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe Hawaiian rolls may be softer, which means they can soak in the custard mixture even better. Just be cautious not to use rolls that are too stale or dry, as they won’t hold together when dipped in the mixture.

How do I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating them in a toaster oven will help restore their crispy texture, making them just as delightful as when freshly made!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the French toast tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for best results.

What should I do if the French toast is soggy?
If you find your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is soggy, this may be due to soaking the rolls too long in the custard or using too much egg mixture. For the next preparation, I recommend quickly dipping the rolls and ensuring your skillet is adequately preheated to achieve a crispy exterior.

Are there any allergy-friendly substitutions I can make?
Very! To make this recipe dairy-free, opt for almond or oat milk instead of whole milk and use dairy-free butter. For an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg in the batter.

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
Yes, to save time in the morning, you can prepare the egg mixture and cut the rolls in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the usual steps for a delicious breakfast with minimal effort!