The sweet aroma of toasted Hawaiian rolls filled my kitchen as I savored the irresistible idea of making Hawaiian Roll French Toast. It’s a breakfast that takes the ordinary to extraordinary, transforming soft, buttery rolls into a delightfully decadent treat. This recipe not only provides a tantalizingly crisp exterior and a rich custard-filled interior, but it also offers the benefit of being incredibly versatile. You can whip it up for a relaxed brunch with friends or turn it into a cozy weekday breakfast in minutes. With easy customization through toppings and variations, you’ll find endless ways to elevate your mornings. Curious about how to create this dreamy breakfast experience at home? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The sweetness of Hawaiian rolls elevates French toast to a whole new level, making each bite a moment of bliss.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this delightful treat on your table in under 30 minutes!

Customizable: From maple syrup to fresh berries, the optional toppings let you tailor each serving to your taste. Feeling adventurous? Try adding cream cheese for a stuffed version!

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this dish is bound to impress guests of all ages. Pair it with suggestions like French Toast Cookies for a sweet surprise!

Delightful Variations: Try the baked casserole or savory options for a twist that suits your cravings any day of the week.

With its blend of convenience, flavor, and versatility, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is sure to become your new breakfast favorite!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

• Ready to create this delicious breakfast staple?

For the French Toast

Hawaiian sweet rolls – Use slightly stale rolls for better soaking; they’re the star of this dish!
Eggs – Essential for richness, they help create the custard-like texture.
Milk – Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but any plant-based milk works too!
Heavy cream – Adds richness to the custard; feel free to use less for a lighter version.
Granulated sugar – Sweeten to your liking; Hawaiian rolls are already quite sweet!
Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor and brings warmth to your French toast.
Ground cinnamon – Adds a comforting spice note that complements the sweetness.
Ground nutmeg – Provides depth and can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand.
Salt – Just a pinch balances the sweet and savory flavors in your custard.
Butter – For cooking; it creates a golden-brown crust that’s irresistible!

Optional Toppings

Maple syrup – A classic choice that pairs wonderfully with the sweet rolls.
Powdered sugar – Sprinkle on top for a beautiful finishing touch.
Fresh berries – Add a pop of color and freshness; strawberries or blueberries work great!
Whipped cream – For indulgence, it’s a delightful addition to your breakfast treat.
Chopped nuts – Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
Coconut flakes – Perfect for a tropical twist on your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Enjoy crafting this sweet, versatile breakfast delight—you’ll love every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast:

Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Blend until everything is fully combined and smooth, creating a rich custard that will perfectly coat the Hawaiian rolls.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls
Gently separate the Hawaiian sweet rolls and dip each one into the custard mixture. Allow the rolls to soak for about 15-20 seconds on each side, ensuring they absorb the custard without falling apart. You want them to be saturated but still hold their shape for the ultimate French toast experience.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully place the soaked Hawaiian rolls in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, showcasing the delicious transformation from rolls to French toast.

Step 4: Repeat and Finish Cooking
After the first batch is done, remove the French toast from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining soaked rolls, adding extra butter as needed. This ensures each piece gets that irresistible golden crust. Keep the finished French toast warm in a low oven while you continue cooking the rest.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Once all the Hawaiian Roll French Toast is ready, plate them up while they are still warm. Drizzle your favorite maple syrup over the top, dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful touch, and finish with optional toppings like fresh berries or whipped cream. Enjoy the delightful flavors that make this recipe a true breakfast treat!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they have cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: Freeze your cooked French toast by placing pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat thawed French toast in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until heated through. Enjoy your Hawaiian Roll French Toast as fresh as the first bite!

Additional Tip: If you’re preparing ahead, soak the rolls and refrigerate them overnight for quick cooking in the morning!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for busy mornings! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Simply whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, then dip the Hawaiian rolls in the custard and refrigerate them in a covered container. To maintain quality, avoid soaking the rolls too long; you want them saturated but not soggy. When you’re ready to serve, just heat a skillet with butter and cook the soaked rolls as directed for that delicious, golden brown perfection. With this make-ahead approach, you’ll enjoy a delightful breakfast in no time!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Stale Rolls: Use slightly stale Hawaiian rolls for the best soaking results; they’ll hold their shape better while absorbing the custard without falling apart.
Soak Time: Avoid oversoaking! A quick 15-20 seconds per side is perfect; too long will make them soggy and difficult to cook.
Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices! Cardamom or ginger can add a unique twist, making your Hawaiian Roll French Toast even more delightful.
Batch Cooking: Cook in batches and keep finished pieces warm in a low oven to ensure all the French toast serves are hot and crispy when served.
Creative Toppings: From maple syrup to shredded coconut, feel free to explore a variety of toppings; they can transform your dish and reflect your personal taste!
Make Ahead: Prepare the custard and soak the rolls the night before; refrigerate overnight for an easy, quick breakfast in the morning!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast and enjoy new textures and flavors that will excite your breakfast routine.

Stuffed Delight: Fill Hawaiian rolls with cream cheese or Nutella before soaking for an indulgent twist. The gooey center makes each bite feel like a treat!
Baked Casserole: Arrange soaked rolls in a baking dish instead of pan-frying. Bake until golden for a delightful, shareable breakfast casserole. Perfect for feeding a crowd!
Savory Twist: Skip the sugar and vanilla; mix in cheese, fresh herbs, and spices for a savory French toast alternative. This version transforms breakfast into a brunchy delight.
Flavorful Add-ins: Incorporate shredded coconut or chopped nuts into the custard for an added crunch and tropical flair. Each bite becomes a delightful surprise!
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg substitute, and use plant-based milk and dairy-free cream. You won’t miss the traditional ingredients!
Fruit-Filled: Add sliced bananas or strawberries directly into the custard mixture for extra flavor and a fruity touch. Their sweetness will complement the rolls beautifully.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top after serving for a cinnamon roll-like experience. It adds an extra layer of sweetness!
Tropical Coconut Milk: Swap regular milk for coconut milk to enhance the tropical vibe and give each bite a deliciously rich twist. It’s a refreshing change you’ll adore!

Consider trying these variations along with optional toppings like fresh berries or a side of whipped cream for a well-rounded breakfast. If you’re in the mood for some extra indulgence, you might want to explore variations like French Toast Cookies for a sweet surprise to complement your feast!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

As you savor the sweet, buttery warmth of Hawaiian Roll French Toast, consider enhancing your breakfast experience with these delightful pairings.

Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet French toast, creating a satisfying balance of flavors. The smoky essence brings a hearty twist to your meal.
Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy, berries like strawberries or blueberries not only add vibrant color but also a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
Whipped Cream: Lush and airy, a dollop of whipped cream makes each bite feel indulgent. It’s a classic topping that beautifully softens the delightful crunch of the toast.
Maple Syrup: This timeless accompaniment enhances the sweet notes of the Hawaiian rolls, creating a deliciously sticky experience. Drizzling warm syrup adds an irresistible touch!
Powdered Sugar: Sprinkling powdered sugar over your French toast provides an elegant finish, turning your breakfast into a visually stunning delight.
Tropical Smoothie: Blend up a refreshing smoothie with pineapple, mango, and coconut for an extra tropical twist. Its fruity freshness pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the toast.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea rounds off your breakfast beautifully, offering comfort alongside the sweet and buttery flavors of the French toast.

Elevate your breakfast experience by diversifying flavors and textures through these delightful pairings!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Hawaiian rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for Hawaiian sweet rolls that are slightly stale. This firmness allows the rolls to absorb the custard perfectly without falling apart. If your rolls are fresh, you can leave them out for a few hours to dry a bit or cut them into halves and let them air out for about an hour.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast can easily be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing them to prevent moisture buildup. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side or in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes! To freeze your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, place cooked pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

What do I do if my French toast is too soggy?
No worries! If your French toast turns out soggy, it usually means the rolls were oversoaked. For next time, limit the soaking time to 15-20 seconds per side. Additionally, try cooking them on low heat. This will help create a crispy exterior without overcooking the interior.

Are there any allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe contains eggs and dairy (milk and heavy cream), which may be allergens for some individuals. If you have dietary restrictions, consider using dairy alternatives like almond or soy milk, and egg substitutes (like flax egg or commercial egg replacers) to accommodate those needs.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Certainly! To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast vegan, replace the eggs with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg (let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken), and use plant-based milk and cream alternatives. There are also vegan Hawaiian rolls available that work perfectly for this delightful treat!