Name: Hawaiian Roll French Toast: A Sweet Morning Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 4 large Eggs (Use large eggs for best results.); 1 cup Milk (Whole milk is recommended, or use almond/oat milk for dairy-free.); ½ cup Heavy Cream (Half-and-half works as a substitute.); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Can substitute with nutmeg for a different flavor.); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Can replace with maple syrup or honey.); 12 rolls Hawaiian Rolls (Brioche or challah can be alternatives.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds a delightful flavor when cooking.); Powdered Sugar (Can be omitted or replaced with cinnamon sugar.); Maple Syrup (Honey or agave syrup are excellent alternatives.)

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What if I told you that breakfast could feel like a tropical getaway? Enter Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a delightful twist on a classic that transforms your morning routine into a moment of pure indulgence. The secret lies in those soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls that bring a unique texture and flavor to the table. This easy breakfast recipe is not only a satisfying way to start your day but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy weekends at home. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick prep time, you can serve up smiles and warmth in every bite. Ready to elevate your breakfast game and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast special?

Deliciously Unique: The use of soft Hawaiian rolls elevates this classic breakfast favorite, creating a sweet and fluffy texture that’s simply irresistible.

Easy Prep: Thanks to its straightforward method, you can whip up this delightful dish with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy mornings.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to get creative! Enhance the recipe with tropical flavors, like adding shredded coconut or diced pineapple, reminiscent of a dreamy getaway.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a weekend brunch with friends or a cozy family breakfast, this dish guarantees smiles and satisfaction all around.

Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a well-rounded start to your day. If you’re looking for more tasty breakfast options, try our amazing Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls for something extra special!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the Egg Mixture
• Eggs – Provides structure and richness; use large eggs for best results.
• Milk – Adds creaminess to the custard; whole milk is recommended, but almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free options.
• Heavy Cream – Enhances creaminess and richness; half-and-half works as a great substitute if needed.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, though it can be substituted with nutmeg for a different flavor.
• Sugar – Sweetens the batter; feel free to replace it with maple syrup or honey for added richness.

For the Rolls
• Hawaiian Rolls – Serve as the base for the French toast; brioche or challah can be great alternatives if Hawaiian rolls are not available.
• Butter – For cooking the rolls; any cooking fat can be used, but butter adds a delightful flavor.

For Serving (Optional)
• Powdered Sugar – For garnishing; can be omitted or replaced with cinnamon sugar for extra flair.
• Maple Syrup – For drizzling; honey or agave syrup are excellent alternatives to enhance the sweetness.

Elevate your breakfast or brunch with this splendid Hawaiian Roll French Toast! It’s an easy breakfast that will surely bring joy and satisfaction to your table.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of heavy cream, 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of sugar until well combined. You want the mixture to be smooth and creamy with no lumps, creating a rich custard that will complement your Hawaiian Roll French Toast beautifully.

Step 2: Cut and Prepare the Rolls
Carefully slice 12 Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops connected if possible for easier dipping. This ensures each piece retains its fluffy structure and allows for better absorption of the egg mixture. Set them aside on a clean cutting board while you prepare your skillet, letting those sweet rolls await their transformation into golden goodness.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 5 minutes to achieve the ideal cooking temperature. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan and let it melt, swirling the pan to coat the surface evenly. The butter should sizzle gently when ready, creating a luscious backdrop for cooking your delectable Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 4: Dip the Rolls
Dip each prepared roll half into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for just a few seconds on each side. Be careful not to over-soak, as you want the rolls to be coated but not soggy. The sweet flavors from the custard will infuse the bread, enhancing the delightful experience of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Place the dipped rolls cut-side down in the preheated skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust. Flip them over gently, allowing the other side to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when both sides are lightly crisp and the rolls are puffed and fluffy, making your kitchen smell irresistible.

Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once cooked, arrange your scrumptious Hawaiian Roll French Toast on a platter, allowing for some space between each piece. Dust them generously with powdered sugar for a lovely finish and drizzle with maple syrup if desired. Serve warm, and watch as everyone enjoys this sweet and fluffy breakfast treat!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to this delightful recipe!

Tropical Flair: Add shredded coconut or diced pineapple to the egg mixture for a vibrant, island-inspired flavor. The fruity sweetness adds a delightful burst that perfectly complements the rolls.
Spice Swap: Replace cinnamon with cardamom or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist. Mixing spices opens up new layers of flavor, making it an exciting morning surprise.
Fruit Topping: Top your French toast with fresh fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. The contrast of textures and flavors from the juicy fruits truly elevates this breakfast dish!
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before serving. The added crunch creates a satisfying contrast to the soft rolls, making every bite an adventure.
Creamy Whip: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone for that extra indulgence. Light and fluffy, it contrasts wonderfully with the buttery French toast.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate or Nutella over the top. Who could resist that sweet addition? It transforms this dish into an even more luxurious breakfast treat.

For further delicious variations, check out our amazing Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls or explore the delightful flavors of Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls for some breakfast inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for busy mornings! You can prepare the egg mixture and slice the rolls up to 24 hours in advance, storing both in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Just whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar, then place the sliced rolls in the egg mixture when it’s time to cook. To maintain the quality and avoid sogginess, be careful not to soak the rolls too long. When ready to serve, follow the cooking instructions as directed—this way, you’ll enjoy all the delightful flavors with minimal effort and a touch of that lazy brunch vibe!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Elevate your breakfast table with delightful pairings that complement the sweetness of this tropical-inspired French toast.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries contrasts beautifully with the rich sweetness of the French toast, adding a refreshing bite.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt offers tanginess and protein, balancing the dish while adding a decadent yet healthy element to your breakfast.
Crispy Bacon: The smoky, savory flavor of crispy bacon provides a delightful contrast, creating an irresistible sweet and salty combination that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Maple-Glazed Sausage: Sweetened sausage adds a touch of indulgence. It mirrors the flavors in the French toast while providing a hearty element that rounds out your breakfast spread.
Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of mango, pineapple, and kiwi can transport you to a sunny beach with each bite. This fresh flavor enhances the Hawaiian theme and provides a wonderful texture contrast to the fluffy rolls.
Spiced Coffee: Serve a warm cup of spiced coffee or a latte to complement the sweet flavors. The rich flavors of coffee help enhance the overall dining experience, making each sip a treat.

These pairings not only enhance your Hawaiian Roll French Toast but create a breakfast that feels like a celebration!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Temperature Matters: Ensure the skillet is adequately preheated. This prevents the rolls from becoming greasy and helps achieve a perfectly crispy exterior.
Mind the Soak Time: Avoid soaking the Hawaiian rolls too long, as this can lead to a soggy texture. Quick dips are key!
Experiment with Spices: Consider substituting cinnamon with nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor twist in your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven to retain that delightful crispiness.
Garnish Ideas: Enhance presentation and taste by topping with fresh fruits like berries or bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add extras like shredded coconut or chocolate chips to the egg mixture for a fun and flavorful variation.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring it stays fresh and ready for the next delicious breakfast.

Freezer: Freeze individual servings wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to a month. This makes reheating a breeze later on!

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the egg mixture and cut the rolls in advance for quick cooking when you’re ready to serve this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use?
I recommend using the classic soft Hawaiian rolls for this recipe to achieve that sweet and fluffy texture. If you can’t find them, brioche or challah are excellent substitutes that will also work beautifully.

How should I store leftovers after making Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to let the French toast cool completely before placing it in the container to maintain its texture.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the French toast cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped toast in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
For the best results, reheat in a preheated toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method will help restore some of the crispiness, which is often lost in the microwave.

Can I add extra ingredients to the egg mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to enhance your Hawaiian Roll French Toast by adding shredded coconut, diced pineapple, or even chocolate chips to the egg mixture for a fun twist. Just remember to balance flavors to maintain that sweet profile!

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is vegetarian-friendly as it mainly uses eggs and dairy-based products. However, make sure all ingredients align with your dietary preferences, particularly if you are accommodating allergies or specific dietary restrictions.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs