You won’t believe how transforming a simple breakfast staple can be! I stumbled upon this delightful twist on a classic dish that has become my go-to for brunch: Hawaiian Roll French Toast. The beauty of this recipe lies in its enchanting sweetness and airy texture, making it a comfort food favorite that’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or any special occasion. Not only is this dish indulgent and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Just picture those fluffy rolls soaking up a creamy, custardy batter, then crisping to golden perfection. Are you ready to dive into this breakfast bliss? Let’s get started!

Why Is This French Toast So Special?

Indulgent Flavor: The sweetness of Hawaiian rolls adds a unique twist to this classic breakfast staple, making it luxuriously delicious.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a gourmet dish ready in no time!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family brunch or entertaining guests, this dish always impresses.
Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment by adding fresh fruit or nuts for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re a fan of delightful flavor pairings, try it alongside our delicious Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls!
Textural Delight: Each bite features a crispy exterior and pillowy soft inside, reminiscent of a sweet bread pudding. Enjoy this delicious experience topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

Indulge in this sweet breakfast delight!

For the Custard
Eggs – The main binding agent, use large eggs for optimal results.
Milk – Adds creaminess to the batter; you can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream – Enhances the custardy texture; substitute with additional milk for a lighter version.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness; pure vanilla gives the best flavor, but imitation works in a pinch.
Cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice to the dish; nutmeg can be a delightful substitute.
Sugar – Sweetens the custard beautifully; feel free to use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
For the Base
Hawaiian Rolls – The soft, sweet base is perfect for soaking up the custard; brioche or challah can also be used as substitutes.
Butter – Used for cooking in the skillet; coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative!

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe transforms a simple breakfast into a comforting, sweet experience that will leave everyone smiling! Enjoy every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, ½ cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Aim for a creamy consistency that is slightly frothy, indicating it’s ready for the Hawaiian rolls. This rich custard will coat the rolls beautifully, delivering that indulgent flavor.

Step 2: Slice Rolls
Take 8 Hawaiian rolls and carefully cut them in half horizontally. Ensure to slice them evenly to create two fluffy halves that will soak in the custard. Lay the roll halves on a cutting board, cut side up, allowing for easy dipping later. This step maximizes the surface area for absorbing the delicious egg mixture.

Step 3: Dip Rolls
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Dip each half of the Hawaiian roll into the prepared egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly without oversaturating them. Let any excess custard drip off to avoid sogginess. The goal is to achieve a nice, even layer of custard on each roll half for a perfect texture.

Step 4: Cook Rolls
Once the skillet is hot, place the coated Hawaiian roll halves cut side down in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crunchy on the bottom. Use a spatula to gently check the color, ensuring a beautiful crust forms. After browning, flip the rolls and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until both sides are beautifully golden.

Step 5: Serve
Once all the Hawaiian Roll French Toast is cooked, arrange the golden halves on a large serving platter. Dust generously with powdered sugar for a sweet finish and drizzle with warm maple syrup, if desired. The alluring aroma and visual appeal will make this dish irresistible, creating a delightful breakfast experience for family and friends.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to get creative with your breakfast by customizing this delicious dish in countless ways!

Fruit-Infused: Add fresh berries or banana slices to the batter for a fruity twist, bursting with flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunchy texture and delightful bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle chocolate chips into the custard mix for a rich, sweet indulgence that chocolate enthusiasts will adore.
Caramelized Bananas: Top with caramelized bananas after cooking for an unforgettable sweet treat that takes this dish to the next level.
Spiced Variations: Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice in the custard, creating a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.
Savory Touch: Experiment by adding cooked bacon or sausage pieces to the batter for a sweet and savory combination.
Coconut Twist: Use coconut milk in the custard and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical feel.
Whipped Cream Delight: Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast that completes the experience beautifully.

Don’t forget to savor every bite alongside our delightful Strawberry Shortcake Roll or the delectable Cheesecake Cinnabon Rolls for a brunch spread that dazzles!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Enhance your breakfast experience by pairing this sweet delight with complementary dishes that resonate with comfort and flavor.

Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries add a refreshing contrast to the rich French toast, balancing sweetness with tartness. Their vibrant colors make the plate pop!
Maple Syrup: A classic pairing, warm maple syrup drizzled over the toast adds an extra layer of sweetness that is simply irresistible. It’s a must-try for all syrup lovers!
Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of crispy bacon provides a delightful textural contrast to the fluffy French toast. This pairing creates a perfect sweet-and-salty harmony.
Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt not only adds creaminess but also brings a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the French toast. Consider flavored yogurt for an extra twist!
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some granola on top for added crunch and nutty flavors. It brings a wonderful textural contrast and a wholesome element to the dish.
Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce elevates the indulgence factor and adds a decadent touch to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Smoothie: Pair with a refreshing smoothie on the side for a wholesome start to your day. A banana or berry smoothie can complement the meal beautifully.
Cinnamon Sugar Toast: For that nostalgic feel, serve with cinnamon sugar toast, echoing the flavors of the main dish. Simple yet delightful!
Coffee or Tea: To round off your brunch, serve with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea, enhancing the comforting feel of this home-cooked meal.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece in plastic before placing it in the container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best results, ensuring they become warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in sogginess.

Make-Ahead: The custard can be prepared and Hawaiian rolls sliced ahead of time, making it easy to whip up this indulgent Hawaiian Roll French Toast whenever you’re ready!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Avoid Sogginess: Dip rolls evenly but don’t let them soak too long in the custard. This prevents them from becoming too soggy when cooked.
Skillet Temperature: Ensure your skillet is heated to medium before cooking the rolls. This maintains a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and custardy.
Flip Gently: When turning the rolls, use a spatula to flip them carefully. This keeps the golden crust intact and ensures even cooking on both sides.
Storage Solutions: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet instead of a microwave to maintain the texture.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to incorporate additional flavors like fresh fruit, nuts, or flavored extracts to elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast preparations are a busy home cook’s dream come true! You can whisk together the custard mixture and slice the Hawaiian rolls up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prep will save you precious time when you’re ready for brunch. When you’re set to cook, simply dip the soaked rolls into the custard and proceed with cooking them in a skillet. Be sure not to oversaturate the rolls before cooking to maintain that perfectly fluffy interior. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll be just moments away from serving an indulgent breakfast with minimal effort!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! Look for Hawaiian rolls that are soft and fresh, with no dark spots or signs of staleness. If you’re ever in doubt, feel the texture—softness indicates they’ll absorb the custard beautifully. If you want a twist, brioche or challah can also work well!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess. The texture is best when they’re reheated properly.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy on the outside.

What should I do if the French toast comes out soggy?
Oh no! If your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out soggy, it might be due to oversaturating the rolls during dipping. To avoid this, dip them quickly, ensuring both sides are coated without lingering too long. If they are already soggy, a quick reheat on a hot skillet can crisp them up again!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re making this dish for others, be aware of common allergies like dairy and egg. You can substitute dairy with almond milk and replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg). Always check for any specific dietary needs your guests may have!