There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of breakfast wafting through the house, especially when it comes from a delightful dish like Hawaiian Roll French Toast. As I reduced the sweetness on my taste buds to make room for the smooth custard soaking into those soft, fluffy King’s Hawaiian rolls, I knew I stumbled upon a brunch treasure. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or a cozy family meal, but it also invites endless customization with toppings that can make any breakfast aficionado smile. Have you ever thought about giving your morning a tropical twist? Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast special?

Sweet, Fluffy Bliss: The unique softness of King’s Hawaiian rolls provides the ideal base, ensuring every bite is delightfully fluffy.
Endless Customization: This versatile recipe allows you to swap ingredients and toppings; think strawberries, whipped cream, or even chocolate chips!
Brunch Showstopper: Impress your guests with minimal effort—simple yet sophisticated enough to steal the show at any brunch gathering.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this up in no time, making mornings a little sweeter.
Tropical Inspiration: Experience the taste of Hawaii in your kitchen, turning a traditional breakfast into an exotic delight.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the Custard
• Eggs – Essential for binding; use large eggs for better texture.
• Milk or Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess; can be substituted with almond or oat milk if desired.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness; opt for pure vanilla to elevate flavor.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warmth; nutmeg can be a lovely alternative for a unique twist.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness; can be swapped with white sugar or a sugar substitute.

For the Rolls
• King’s Hawaiian Rolls – The perfect base; their soft, sweet nature allows for excellent custard absorption.

For Cooking
• Unsalted Butter – Key for frying; ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior. Aim for medium heat to prevent burning.

Enjoy making this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast that brings a tropical touch to your breakfast table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of milk or half-and-half, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard will be the flavorful coating for your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, so be sure to incorporate the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Soak Rolls
Using a serrated knife, slice each King’s Hawaiian roll in half without cutting all the way through. Carefully immerse each roll in the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side until they are saturated but not falling apart. This step ensures a delightful custard flavor throughout the rolls.

Step 3: Heat Skillet
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, swirling it around to coat the bottom evenly. The butter should bubble gently but not burn. A well-heated skillet ensures a perfect golden crust on the Hawaiian Roll French Toast, setting the stage for a deliciously crispy exterior.

Step 4: Cook
Carefully place the soaked rolls cut side down onto the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy. The edges will begin to firm up, indicating they are ready to flip. Use a spatula to turn them over and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Serve
Once both sides are beautifully browned, remove the rolls from the skillet and place them on a warm plate. Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast immediately while they’re warm, and add your favorite toppings such as powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy the tropical delight of each fluffy bite!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Elevate your brunch experience with delightful accompaniments that perfectly balance the sweetness of your tropical French toast.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds vibrant color and a tart contrast to the sweetness of the French toast. Their juiciness complements every indulgent bite.
Whipped Cream: Soft and fluffy, whipped cream enhances the creamy texture of the French toast while contributing a delightful richness that feels like a special treat.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon creates a delicious contrast to the sweet, soft rolls, providing a savory balance to every mouthful. It’s a classic breakfast pairing that never disappoints.
Maple Syrup: Drizzle real maple syrup over your French toast to infuse it with a deep, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the tropical flavors. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
Fruit Compote: A homemade fruit compote, bursting with flavors from simmered berries or peaches, brings a syrupy sweetness without being overly heavy—an ideal topping for French toast lovers.
Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or aromatic herbal tea rounds out your brunch experience, providing a comforting warmth that ties the meal together beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert twist, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the French toast. The cold creaminess contrasts wonderfully with the warm, fluffy interior.
Chilled Fruit Juice: A refreshing glass of orange or pineapple juice adds a zesty brightness that awakens your palate, making each bite even more delightful.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for an added layer of texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet custard. It makes your brunch stand out!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top for a sweet and indulgent surprise that will appeal to all the chocolate lovers in your brunch crew.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy mornings! You can prepare the custard mixture (4 large eggs, 1 cup of milk or half-and-half, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can soak the sliced rolls in the custard for about 30 seconds on each side before covering and refrigerating them overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the skillet with butter and cook the soaked rolls for about 3-4 minutes per side. By prepping ahead, you ensure a quick, delicious breakfast that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delicious variations that elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience!

Brioche Substitute: Swap out Hawaiian rolls for brioche bread to achieve an even richer flavor and texture. The buttery goodness of brioche will create an indulgent twist!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk or half-and-half for a dairy-free version. This swap keeps it creamy while welcoming those with dietary restrictions.
Tropical Fruit Twist: Incorporate chunks of fresh pineapple or ripe banana into your custard for a delightful fruity explosion. The addition beautifully complements the sweetness of the rolls.
Chocolate Indulgence: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the custard mixture. This will melt during cooking, giving your French toast a decadent, dessert-like quality that is hard to resist!
Spiced Up: Replace cinnamon with a pinch of cardamom or pumpkin pie spice for a captivating and warm flavor profile. It can bring a whole new dimension to this breakfast treat.
Nutty Crunch: Top your finished French toast with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving. This will add a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft custard-soaked bread.
Savory Option: For a savory twist, add a sprinkle of crumbled bacon or caramelized onions on top. Pair with a drizzle of maple syrup for the sweet and savory combo that is oh-so-tasty!

Once you’ve explored these variations, don’t forget to check out transformative recipes like French Onion Chicken or perhaps a comforting bowl of Country French Garlic Soup to continue your culinary adventures. Enjoy customizing every breakfast with a splash of creativity!

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Perfect Custard Mix: Whisk eggs and milk thoroughly until fully blended; a well-mixed custard ensures even flavor and texture throughout your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Soak Smartly: Avoid the soggy horror by soaking each roll for just 30 seconds to 1 minute per side. This will give you a custard-coated center without falling apart.
Avoid Crowding: Fry the rolls in batches; overcrowding your skillet can lead to uneven cooking and ruin that perfect golden crust you want.
Control the Heat: Keep your skillet at medium heat to achieve that delicate balance of a crispy exterior while cooking the insides evenly without burning.
Topping Creativity: Get playful with toppings! From fresh fruit to a swirl of Nutella, customizing your Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience can bring joy to every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Leave Hawaiian Roll French Toast at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking to keep it fresh for your brunch guests.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain the fluffy texture and prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in a toaster or skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, ensuring it is warmed through before serving.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using soft, slightly sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls is essential for achieving that perfect fluffy texture in your French toast. They absorb the custard beautifully, enhancing every bite with their sweetness. If you want a variation, you can experiment with brioche or challah, which also offer delightful results.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
To keep your Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in a toaster or skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes. This will help maintain the fluffy texture without drying them out.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes! For convenient meal prep, you can freeze individual slices of Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat in a toaster or skillet until warmed through, about 3-5 minutes.

What should I do if my French toast turns out too soggy?
Soggy French toast can be a bummer! To avoid this, make sure you soak the rolls for just 30 seconds to 1 minute per side in the custard mixture. If the rolls are overly soaked, they may fall apart while cooking. Additionally, maintaining medium heat while cooking will help develop a nice, golden-brown crust and prevent sogginess.

Are there any dietary considerations with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Definitely! If you’re preparing this dish for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize it. Consider using almond or oat milk as a lactose-free option, and feel free to substitute brown sugar with a sugar alternative if needed. Always ensure your toppings, such as whipped cream or syrup, align with any dietary needs.

Can I prepare the custard mixture ahead of time?
Very much! You can mix the custard ingredients the night before and refrigerate them. This saves time on busy mornings, and all you need to do is soak and fry the rolls in the morning. It’s a wonderful way to ensure a quick and delicious brunch experience!