Let me tell you, if you’re looking for a breakfast treat that bridges the gap between decadent and delightfully homey, you need to try Hawaiian Roll French Toast. This dish brings together those classically sweet and pillowy Hawaiian rolls and transforms them into crispy-edged, custard-soaked magic. Every bite is a surprise of buttery flavor and gentle sweetness, making it a favorite whether it’s a lazy Sunday or you’re hosting your brunch-loving crew. The simplicity of the recipe lets you whip it up on a whim, yet its flavor will definitely earn you a few “wow, you made this?!” compliments around the table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Hawaiian Roll French Toast extra special is how a handful of simple ingredients each plays an essential part. From the rich custard to the buttery finish, nothing is wasted, and every component builds layers of flavor and texture you’ll love.
- Hawaiian rolls: Their fluffy, lightly sweet texture soaks up the custard beautifully and maintains a soft center with crisp edges.
- Large eggs: The key structure-makers for the custard, binding everything together with their richness.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps mellow out the sweetness for a balanced bite.
- Heavy cream: The secret to ultra-decadent custard — it gives the toast extra richness.
- Granulated sugar: A couple tablespoons are all you need for a hint of extra sweetness and golden caramelization.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and aroma, instantly making the kitchen smell like a bakery.
- Ground cinnamon: Sprinkling in cinnamon boosts the flavor and adds gorgeous color to the rolls as they brown.
- Pinch of salt: Don’t skip it! Salt sharpens all the other flavors so they truly shine.
- Unsalted butter: For that golden, buttery exterior and unmistakable French toast flavor.
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup: The dream team of toppings — one for a delicate dusting, the other for a cozy drizzle.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
First things first: crack those eggs into a medium bowl and whisk them together with the milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Take a minute to blend everything thoroughly so your custard is creamy and the spices are evenly mixed. This fragrant blend is what’s going to transform your Hawaiian rolls from everyday bread into breakfast royalty.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Set a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat, and add a little butter. Once it starts to foam and sizzle gently, you’re ready to get cooking. Using butter not only prevents sticking but also gives each roll a golden, buttery crust that’s pure nostalgia.
Step 3: Dip the Rolls
Working one at a time (or in small batches), briefly dip each Hawaiian roll into the custard mixture, turning to coat all sides. You want the rolls to be well-soaked on the outside but not mushy — a quick dip is enough. Let any extra custard drip off before you transfer each roll to the waiting skillet.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Arrange your custard-soaked rolls in the pan, leaving space between them. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning gently, until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. The outside should be crisp and caramelized, while the inside stays soft and luscious. Repeat with the remaining rolls, adding more butter as needed for each new batch.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once all your Hawaiian Roll French Toast pieces are cooked, arrange them on a serving platter. Top with powdered sugar and a generous pour of maple syrup, or make it your own with fresh berries or whipped cream. The warm, inviting aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Garnishes
This is where you can let your creativity shine! A dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy finish and a little sparkle, while real maple syrup brings that classic, cozy sweetness everyone expects. If you’re feeling fancy, add fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut to play up the tropical notes in Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Side Dishes
Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with crispy bacon, juicy sausage links, or a colorful bowl of seasonal fruit for a full brunch experience. Savory sides balance out the sweetness, while fruit adds freshness and pops of color to your plate. Even a scoop of yogurt can round out the breakfast in a nourishing, satisfying way.
Creative Ways to Present
Take this dish over the top by arranging the rolls in a circular pattern on a bright platter, layering them with fruit, or serving them in individual ramekins for a sophisticated touch. Turn it into a build-your-own toast bar by offering a variety of toppings — from chocolate chips and nuts to honey, jam, or even lemon curd. It’s a fantastic hands-on brunch experience featuring none other than Hawaiian Roll French Toast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (and that’s a big “if” with this crowd-pleaser), cool the Hawaiian Roll French Toast to room temperature, then tuck them into an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 2 days, so you can enjoy sweet and easy breakfasts throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled French toast pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1 hour). Then transfer them to a freezer bag or sealed container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 2 months. Pop them out as needed for a quick breakfast or brunch that still feels special.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in a 325°F oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy again. For a faster option, you can also use a toaster oven or microwave, but reheating in the oven does the best job of reviving that original texture you loved fresh off the skillet.
FAQs
Can I use day-old Hawaiian rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, slightly stale rolls work perfectly for Hawaiian Roll French Toast because they soak up the custard without getting too soggy. If your rolls are fresh, you can let them sit out for a few hours to dry a little.
Can I prepare the custard ahead of time?
Yes, whipping up the custard mixture ahead makes brunch even more stress-free. Cover and refrigerate it overnight, then give it a good stir before dipping your rolls in.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, just use extra whole milk. Your French toast will still be delicious, though slightly less rich and custardy — the Hawaiian rolls help compensate with their natural sweetness and softness!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional Hawaiian rolls contain gluten, so the classic version won’t work for gluten-free diets. However, if you can find gluten-free sweet rolls, you can absolutely give this recipe a go using those!
Can I slice the Hawaiian rolls before dipping?
Definitely! For extra custardy centers, slice the rolls in half. This lets even more of that lovely eggy custard soak into the middle, creating an amazing texture with every bite.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to take your breakfast or brunch game up a notch, you’re going to fall in love with Hawaiian Roll French Toast. It’s easy, crave-worthy, and the kind of recipe you’ll be asked for again and again. Give it a try, play with the garnishes, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with your favorite people!
Print
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful breakfast treat with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe. Sweet, custardy, and easy to make, it’s perfect for a special brunch or a cozy morning at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls, separated
Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Serving:
- powdered sugar
- maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Cook French Toast: Preheat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add butter to coat the surface. Dip each Hawaiian roll into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s coated but not soggy. Cook on the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Repeat with remaining rolls, adding more butter as needed. Serve warm with powdered sugar and maple syrup.
Notes
- You can slice the rolls in half before dipping for extra custardy centers.
- Add a side of fruit or bacon for a complete breakfast experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 rolls
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
