Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe: A Sweet Start to Your Day

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Desserts

Imagine waking up to the smell of sweet, buttery Hawaiian rolls transformed into golden-brown French toast. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes mornings feel special, whether it’s a lazy weekend or a gathering with loved ones. The fluffy texture of Hawaiian rolls combined with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. And the best part? You can whip it up in no time with simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen.

Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe. It’s easy, fun, and absolutely delicious. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian rolls aren’t just for sliders or dinner rolls—they’re the secret weapon to making the most irresistible French toast. Their natural sweetness and soft texture soak up the custard mixture perfectly, resulting in a French toast that’s rich, fluffy, and slightly crispy on the edges.

This recipe is also versatile—you can customize it with your favorite toppings, make it lighter with substitutions, or even prepare it ahead of time for busy mornings. Whether you’re serving your family or treating yourself, this dish will leave everyone wanting seconds.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Here’s everything you need to make this comforting breakfast classic:

IngredientQuantity
Hawaiian sweet rolls (cut in half)12 rolls
Large eggs4
Milk (whole or 2%)1 cup
Sugar2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon1 teaspoon
Salt¼ teaspoon
ButterFor cooking
Maple syrupFor serving
Powdered sugarOptional (for garnish)
Fresh berriesOptional (for garnish)

Optional Substitutions:

  • For a lactose-free option, substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk.
  • To make it lighter, use egg whites instead of whole eggs.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Follow these easy steps to create a breakfast that’s sure to impress:

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is fully combined to create a smooth custard base. This mixture will give the rolls their rich and flavorful coating.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Cut your Hawaiian rolls in half and dip each piece into the egg mixture. Allow them to soak for 20-30 seconds on each side, ensuring they absorb enough custard without becoming too soggy.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter to coat the surface. Place the soaked rolls on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

Once cooked, transfer the rolls to a plate. Serve them hot with a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a handful of fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

1. Use Day-Old Rolls

If your Hawaiian rolls are fresh, they might be too soft to hold up in the custard. Day-old rolls or slightly stale ones are ideal because they soak up the mixture without falling apart.

2. Don’t Over-Soak

While soaking the rolls ensures they absorb the custard, be careful not to leave them in the mixture too long. Over-soaking can make them soggy and difficult to handle during cooking.

3. Adjust the Sweetness

Hawaiian rolls are naturally sweet, so adjust the sugar in the custard mixture according to your taste. If you prefer a more savory French toast, reduce the sugar or skip it entirely.

4. Use Low to Medium Heat

Cooking the French toast over medium heat ensures it cooks evenly without burning. High heat can cause the outside to brown too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.

Topping Ideas for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

The beauty of this recipe is that you can customize it with endless topping options. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

  • Classic: Maple syrup and powdered sugar
  • Fruity: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of fruit compote
  • Decadent: Whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chocolate drizzle
  • Nutty: Toasted almonds, pecans, or a sprinkle of granola

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount
Calories~290
Carbohydrates32g
Protein8g
Fat12g
Saturated Fat6g
Fiber1g
Sugar12g
Sodium230mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and topping choices.

Why Hawaiian Roll French Toast Is Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making breakfast for your family, hosting a weekend brunch, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s quick, uses pantry staples, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Plus, it’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

FAQs About Hawaiian Roll French Toast

1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and slice the rolls the night before. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, soak and fry the rolls fresh for the best results.

2. Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the French toast cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or toaster for a quick breakfast option.

3. Can I Make It Dairy-Free?

Of course! Substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy alternative. Use dairy-free butter for cooking.

4. How Do I Prevent the Rolls from Getting Soggy?

Use slightly stale rolls and don’t soak them in the custard for too long. Also, make sure your skillet is preheated to cook the toast evenly and quickly.

5. Can I Use Other Types of Bread?

Yes, but Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness and texture to this recipe. If you’re using regular bread, opt for brioche, challah, or Texas toast for similar results.

6. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, in the oven, or in a toaster for the best texture.

Your Turn to Cook!

Now that you’ve got the recipe, tips, and topping ideas, it’s time to bring this Hawaiian Roll French Toast to life. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing your family, this dish will make your breakfast unforgettable. So grab those sweet rolls, fire up your skillet, and dive into a plate of golden-brown, cinnamon-scented perfection

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Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe: A Sweet Start to Your Day


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  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Transform sweet and fluffy Hawaiian rolls into golden, cinnamon-scented French toast. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Pair it with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar for an indulgent treat that everyone will love.


Ingredients

  • 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, cut in half
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Butter (for cooking)
  • Maple syrup (for serving)
  • Powdered sugar (optional for garnish)
  • Fresh berries (optional for garnish)

Optional Substitutions:

  • For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.
  • Replace whole eggs with egg whites for a lighter version.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Mixture:
    In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until smooth to ensure a flavorful, even coating for your French toast.
  2. Soak the Rolls:
    Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half. Dip each piece into the custard mixture, letting it soak for about 20-30 seconds per side. This ensures the rolls absorb the flavors without becoming overly soggy.
  3. Cook the French Toast:
    Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter to coat the surface evenly. Place the soaked rolls onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
  4. Serve:
    Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate. Top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.
    Serve hot for the best experience.

Notes

  • Stale Rolls Work Best: If your Hawaiian rolls are too fresh, they may become overly soft when soaked. Slightly stale rolls hold up better and soak up the custard perfectly.
  • Temperature Tip: Use medium heat to prevent the rolls from burning on the outside while ensuring they’re cooked through.
  • Topping Ideas: Get creative! Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of nuts can take your French toast to the next level.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast/Brunch
  • Method: Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: American

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