If you’re craving a breakfast treat that’s both irresistibly fluffy and sweetly tender, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is going to sweep you off your feet. Using those soft, pillowy King’s Hawaiian Rolls transforms the classic French toast into a fun, bite-sized delight packed with warm cinnamon, rich vanilla, and a touch of brown sugar. It’s simple enough for a weekday morning yet special enough to impress guests at brunch. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll want to make it your go-to weekend indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the best out of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe depends on a handful of straightforward yet key ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating that creamy custard soak, perfectly balanced sweetness, and golden finish that makes this dish so memorable.
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls (12-pack): The secret star of the dish, these rolls are soft and sweet, perfect for soaking up the custard without falling apart.
- Large eggs (3): Eggs provide structure and richness to the custard, helping the toast become perfectly custardy and tender.
- Half and half or whole milk (¾ cup): Adds creaminess and a slightly richer flavor than regular milk would.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses warmth and depth, complementing the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds that classic French toast spiced note, making every bite cozy and fragrant.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Softens the cinnamon with caramel-like sweetness, enhancing the custard’s flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies all the other flavors in the recipe.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): For cooking, it creates a golden, slightly crispy crust that contrasts the soft interior perfectly.
- Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and maple syrup: Optional finishing touches to add sweetness, freshness, and that classic syrupy drizzle.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Whisking the Custard Mixture
Start by crackling those eggs into a large bowl and whisking them well with the half and half or whole milk. This creates the rich base for your custard. Then add in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy, setting up that irresistible flavor foundation for your Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.
Step 2: Preparing the Rolls to Soak
Here’s a little trick: using a toothpick or skewer, poke several holes into each Hawaiian roll’s bottom. This technique allows the custard to seep deeply without making the rolls fall apart. Carefully dip each roll into the custard bath, turning to coat all sides. Remember, about 30 seconds is just right—any longer and the rolls might get too soggy, losing that perfect texture we’re aiming for.
Step 3: Cooking to Golden Perfection
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls gently in the pan and cook for 30 to 60 seconds on each side. You’re looking for golden brown, crispy edges while keeping the inside soft and custardy. Turn the rolls with care using a spatula to cook every side evenly. It’s this careful step that brings out the signature texture and rich flavor that make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe stand out.
Step 4: Serving It Up Warm and Wonderful
Now comes the best part: serving. While still warm, dust those golden rolls with powdered sugar for a delicate sweet touch. Add fresh berries for a burst of color and tang, and drizzle with maple syrup for that classic French toast indulgence. The combination of textures and flavors here promises to delight anyone lucky enough to enjoy it.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Powdered sugar is a simple but stunning garnish that adds a light sweetness and pretty dusting. Fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices bring fresh brightness and a juicy contrast to the caramelized edges. For extra indulgence, don’t skip the classic maple syrup drizzle—it brings warmth and sweetness that completes the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, pair this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe with crispy bacon or sausage for savory balance. A side of Greek yogurt or a simple fruit salad complements the richness of the toast beautifully, keeping things fresh and satisfying. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a perfectly brewed cup of coffee make excellent accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your brunch guests? Serve the rolls stacked on a pretty plate with layers of fresh berries tucked between. Alternatively, slice the toasted rolls in half horizontally to create mini breakfast sandwiches filled with cream cheese or Nutella. The Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe also works wonderfully as bite-sized appetizers when served with a drizzle of flavored syrup like cinnamon maple or tropical fruit sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days without losing much of their delightful texture or flavor. Just make sure to cool them completely before covering to avoid condensation that can cause sogginess.
Freezing
To freeze this French toast, place cooled, cooked rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1 month. Freezing is a great way to have this breakfast treat ready to pop in the toaster or oven for a quick, delicious meal anytime you want.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating, avoid the microwave. Instead, warm your leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on the outside. This method revives that freshly cooked charm beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread for this recipe?
While you can use sandwich bread, the Hawaiian Rolls provide a unique sweetness and softness that regular bread just can’t match. The rolls soak up the custard perfectly and give the dish its signature fluffy texture.
Is it necessary to poke holes in the rolls?
Yes, poking holes helps the custard soak in deeper without turning the rolls too mushy. It’s a little step that guarantees that custardy center and balance you want in the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the half and half or milk with your favorite dairy-free milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. The flavor might change slightly, but it will still be delicious and creamy.
How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?
Soak the rolls briefly, about 30 seconds, and cook them on medium-low heat. Cooking gently creates a crisp exterior that holds together well without sogginess inside.
Can I add other spices to the custard?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, cardamom, or even a dash of pumpkin pie spice for different flavor twists to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is the perfect way to elevate your breakfast routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s warm, comforting, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether you’re making a weekday treat or indulging on the weekend, these golden rolls will bring a smile to every breakfast lover’s face. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to start the day!
Print
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a sweet and fluffy twist on classic French toast with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe. Soft King’s Hawaiian rolls are soaked in a rich vanilla-cinnamon custard, pan-fried to golden perfection, and served with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and maple syrup for a delightful breakfast treat.
Ingredients
French Toast Custard
- 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup half and half or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
Cooking
- 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh fruit (such as berries), for serving
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half (or whole milk) until fully combined. Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until everything is well incorporated, creating a smooth custard base.
- Soak the rolls: Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each Hawaiian roll to help the custard soak in evenly. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture, turning to coat all sides. Soak each roll for about 30 seconds to absorb flavor without becoming soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the soaked rolls in the skillet and cook for 30 to 60 seconds per side until they develop a golden brown and crispy exterior. Turn carefully with a spatula to cook all sides evenly.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired for a perfect sweet finish.
Notes
- Poking holes in the rolls helps the custard soak in better, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Soak the rolls just long enough to absorb custard without becoming mushy.
- Cook on medium-low heat to prevent burning while allowing the custard to set.
- Use fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a vibrant, fresh topping.
- Leftover French toast can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in a skillet or toaster oven for best texture.
