There’s a certain warmth that fills my kitchen when I whip up a batch of Hawaiian Roll French Toast. The moment you slice into those soft, fluffy rolls and dip them into a rich custard mixture, your senses awaken to the enticing aroma of vanilla and a hint of cinnamon. As I place them on the skillet, the gentle sizzle instantly elevates the ambiance, reminding me that breakfast can be both delightful and easy.
This recipe is my go-to for quick mornings and grateful brunch gatherings alike. The sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls brings a delightful twist to a classic dish, making it irresistibly creamy on the inside, and perfectly crisp on the outside. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself and your family, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast delivers in flavor, ease, and happiness at the breakfast table. Plus, with simple adaptations, it’s friendly for various dietary needs—proof that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated!
Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast a must-try?
Indulgence Guaranteed: The unique sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls elevates this classic dish to new heights, creating a breakfast experience like no other.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe takes minimal time to prepare and cook, making delicious breakfasts effortless.
Family-Friendly: With its delightful flavors and fluffy texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.
Versatile Toppings: Get creative! Whether you prefer fresh fruit, whipped cream, or classic maple syrup, there are endless options to customize each serving.
Diet Adaptable: Easily swap ingredients to make it dairy-free or gluten-free, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this treat.
Impressive Presentation: Serve them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a visually stunning addition to any brunch gathering.
For more quick and delicious ideas, check out our quick breakfast recipes!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients
• Quick and easy components for your French Toast delight!
For the Custard
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls – A unique sweetness and soft texture make them perfect for French toast.
- Eggs – Adds richness and helps bind everything together; large eggs work best.
- Milk – Makes the custard creamy; almond milk or oat milk are great dairy-free alternatives.
- Vanilla Extract – For depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for a richer taste.
- Ground Cinnamon – Offers warm spice notes that enhance the overall sweetness; nutmeg is a great alternative.
- Salt – Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the custard.
For Cooking
- Butter – Provides a rich, crispy exterior; cooking oil can be used for a non-dairy variant.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
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Prepare the Rolls: Slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls horizontally into pairs. This makes dipping easier and ensures each piece is coated perfectly with that delicious custard mixture.
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Make Custard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re frothy. Then, gently blend in the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. This mixture will be the magic that transforms your rolls!
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Soak Rolls: Dip each roll half into the custard for about 15-20 seconds on each side. You want them to absorb enough custard without becoming overly soggy—just tender enough for the perfect French toast!
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Cook French Toast: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add butter. Once melted, place the soaked rolls in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and firm. You’ll know they’re ready when they emit a delightful aroma!
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Serve: Plate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast immediately while hot. Top them with a pat of butter and drizzle warm maple syrup for the ultimate breakfast treat.
Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Perfect Soaking Time: Avoid sogginess by soaking the rolls for 15-20 seconds per side; slightly stale rolls absorb custard better without losing structure.
- Consistent Heat: Cook in batches on medium heat for even cooking and golden-brown perfection; too high heat can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for large eggs and pure vanilla extract to enhance the depth and richness of flavor in your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
- Slicing Technique: Use a serrated knife to easily slice the soft Hawaiian rolls without squishing them; this will ensure even and neat pieces for soaking.
- Topping Ideas: Don’t hesitate to customize each serving; fresh fruits or flavored syrups can elevate the dish, making every bite unique and delightful!
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Fridge: Store cooked Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster oven for a crisp texture.
Freezer: Allow the French toast to cool completely before freezing in a single layer. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat frozen French toast in a toaster oven or skillet over medium-low heat for about 5–7 minutes until warm and crispy.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the fridge to save time on busy mornings.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Transform your breakfast into a vibrant feast by pairing it with delightful sides and treats that complement those sweet, fluffy rolls.
- Fresh Berries: Bursting with flavor, fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a touch of acidity that beautifully balances the sweetness of the French toast.
- Crispy Bacon: The savory saltiness of crispy bacon provides a fantastic contrast to the sweet custard, creating a perfect harmony of flavors on your plate.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream brings a cloud-like texture that enhances the indulgence of your French toast, adding a luscious finish.
- Maple Syrup: A classic and essential accompaniment, warm maple syrup drizzled over the toast creates a sweet sauce that beautifully melds with the flavors of the dish.
- Greek Yogurt: Smooth and creamy, a dollop of Greek yogurt offers a tangy twist perfect for cutting through the richness, while adding a protein boost to the meal.
- Honey-Drizzled Almonds: A sprinkle of honey-roasted almonds introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, providing texture and a touch of sweetness that elevates every bite.
- Fruit Compote: Warm fruit compote, like blueberry or peach, lends a fruity depth and enhances the seasonal flavors, making your breakfast even more special.
- Iced Coffee or Fresh Juice: Refreshing drinks like iced coffee or a vibrant juice complement the breakfast flavors while keeping things light and energizing for the day ahead.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations
Customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these delightful twists that will elevate your breakfast experience!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil for cooking to keep it creamy and delicious.
- Berry Bliss: Top with a delicious mix of fresh berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor!
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add extra cinnamon to the custard for a bolder flavor or smear cream cheese between the rolls for a decadent twist.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in chocolate chips to the custard or sprinkle atop the French toast before serving for a sweet surprise.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate almond or walnut pieces into the cooking task for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne or chili powder into the custard for an unexpected, warm heat that complements the sweetness.
- Overnight Casserole: Transform your recipe into a breakfast casserole by layering egg-soaked rolls in a baking dish and letting it set overnight.
- Syrup Exploration: Use maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a homemade fruit compote for toppings that excite the taste buds in every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for busy mornings and meal prep! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls a day ahead and keep them refrigerated as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply soak the rolls in the chilled custard for 15-20 seconds on each side before cooking them on a preheated skillet for 2-3 minutes per side. This ensures your French toast will be just as delicious and fresh, cutting down your prep time without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy a stress-free breakfast with minimal effort!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs
Can I use fresh or stale King’s Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! Slightly stale rolls are ideal for this recipe as they absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy. If your rolls are fresh, don’t worry—they’ll still work beautifully; just be cautious with soaking time.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Cooked French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it in a toaster oven to restore that delicious crispiness.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes, you can freeze it! After cooling completely, lay the French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for an hour. Then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat in a toaster oven or pan over medium-low heat for the best results.
What if my French toast comes out soggy?
To achieve perfectly cooked French toast, avoid soaking the rolls too long—15-20 seconds per side is ideal. If you find it’s too soggy, consider adjusting the soaking time for a firmer texture next time.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Very! Simply swap out regular milk with almond milk or oat milk. For the butter, you can use a non-dairy cooking oil to maintain that crisp exterior without the dairy.
Are there any allergy considerations?
Definitely! Be mindful of any allergies by selecting suitable ingredients. If you need to avoid eggs, consider using a flaxseed or chia egg as a substitute—mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until gel-like, and incorporate that in place of one egg.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Sweet Breakfast Bliss Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls horizontally into pairs to make dipping easier.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Blend in milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Dip each roll half into the custard for about 15-20 seconds on each side.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add butter, and cook the soaked rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve immediately with a pat of butter and warm maple syrup. Optional: sprinkle with powdered sugar.