Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

If you have a soft spot for breakfast treats that feel like a warm hug, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is going to become your new best friend. The fluffy sweetness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls transforms classic French toast into a rich, buttery delight that’s both comforting and just a little bit tropical. Whether you’re making brunch for guests or indulging in a weekend morning treat, this recipe combines simplicity and a burst of flavor in every bite. Trust me, once you try this Hawaiian Roll French Toast, your breakfast game will never be the same.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is straightforward but crucial. Each component brings a unique layer of flavor or texture that makes this Hawaiian Roll French Toast truly special and irresistible.

• King’s Hawaiian Rolls: Their signature sweet and pillowy texture is the foundation that sets this French toast apart.
• Large eggs: They create the rich, custardy base that soaks into every nook of the rolls.
• Half and half or whole milk: Adds creaminess, helping to make the batter luxuriously smooth.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm sweetness and depth to the custard mixture.
• Ground cinnamon: Introduces a cozy spice that perfectly complements the rolls’ sweetness.
• Brown sugar: Enhances caramel notes and adds a slight molasses richness.
• Pinch of salt: Balances all the flavors, making each one pop.
• Butter for cooking: Ensures a golden, crispy crust with a luscious buttery flavor.
• Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup for serving: Optional toppings that bring the dish to life with freshness, sweetness, and beauty.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

Start by whisking together the eggs and half and half in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Next, add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and just a pinch of salt. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and all the flavors are harmoniously blended. This custard mixture is what will make each bite melt in your mouth, so take a moment to enjoy the aroma as these ingredients combine!

Step 2: Prep the Hawaiian Rolls

Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each King’s Hawaiian Roll. This step lets the custard soak deeply, ensuring each roll is infused with flavor rather than just coated on the outside. It’s a little magic trick that results in a tender, custard-rich center that contrasts beautifully with the crisp exterior.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls

Working in batches, dip the rolls into your custard mixture, letting them absorb the liquid for about 30 seconds. Turn them gently to coat all sides evenly. The key here is soaking just long enough to absorb flavor without becoming soggy—this balance is what you need for that perfect texture in your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter on medium-low heat in a nonstick skillet or griddle. Carefully place the soaked rolls in the pan and cook for 30 to 60 seconds per side. You want each side to turn a gorgeous golden brown, developing a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside. Take your time turning the rolls to crisp every surface evenly—this is where the magic happens.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Garnishes

Finishing touches are what make presentations truly pop. Lightly dust your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with powdered sugar for a snow-kissed look and a hint of sweetness. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas adds vibrant color and a fresh burst of flavor to balance the richness. And, of course, don’t forget a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup—it’s the perfect syrupy crown for this tropical breakfast beauty.

Side Dishes

Pair your French toast with crispy bacon or sage-infused sausage to add a salty contrast that complements the sweet rolls. A side of fresh fruit salad or a smoothie bowl can brighten your plate and add a refreshing note. Light, citrusy juices like orange or pineapple juice work beautifully to round out the meal with a tropical touch.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to take your Hawaiian Roll French Toast beyond the ordinary? Try stacking the rolls like mini towers, layering with whipped cream and fruit between each. Or serve them open-faced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and toasted coconut flakes for a decadent brunch twist. Presentation can elevate this simple dish into something that delights the eyes as much as the taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The rolls keep well for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy a quick breakfast the next morning without any fuss.

Freezing

Hawaiian Roll French Toast freezes wonderfully. Arrange the cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can have breakfast ready to go whenever you want—just pop them out and reheat.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your frozen or refrigerated rolls in a toaster oven or regular oven at medium heat until warmed through and crispy on the outside again. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the rolls soggy instead of delightfully crisp.

FAQs

Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

While regular bread works, the unique sweetness and soft texture of Hawaiian rolls make this French toast extra special. If you want that signature flavor and tenderness, stick with Hawaiian rolls.

What if I don’t have half and half?

You can substitute whole milk, which works just fine and keeps the custard creamy. For a richer flavor, mix milk with a bit of cream if possible.

How long should I soak the rolls?

About 30 seconds per side is ideal. Soaking too long can make them soggy and hard to cook properly, so keep an eye on the timing for best texture.

Can I add other spices to the custard?

Absolutely! A pinch of nutmeg or allspice can add lovely warmth and complexity, but cinnamon is the classic favorite that pairs beautifully with the sweet rolls.

Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?

Definitely. The recipe scales up nicely, and you can keep cooked rolls warm in the oven while you finish the batch, making it perfect for parties or family breakfasts.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is one of those recipes that feels like a little celebration every time you make it. Its perfect blend of sweet, soft rolls and cinnamon-kissed custard makes for a truly memorable breakfast treat. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or savoring it alone on a lazy morning, I encourage you to try this recipe and discover just how deliciously easy making breakfast can be. It might just become your new favorite weekend tradition!

Print