Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Name: Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 pack (12 count) King's Hawaiian Rolls; 3 large eggs; 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; Pinch of salt; 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)

Published: May 22, 2025

by Sofia

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Oh friends, have I got a treat for you today! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is, hands down, one of the most delicious breakfast creations I’ve ever sunk my teeth into. We’re talking sweet, pillowy clouds of cinnamon-sugar bliss that practically melt in your mouth. Perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or even a cozy weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a regular Sunday morning, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast fits right in.
Decadent Flavor: The combination of sweet Hawaiian rolls and rich custard creates an unforgettable taste that everyone will adore.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your serving with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or powdered sugar to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this dish at gatherings and watch it disappear—everyone loves it!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Nonstick skillet or griddle
Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Toothpick or skewer
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Nonstick skillet or griddle: Ensures the French toast cooks evenly and prevents sticking, making flipping easier.
Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to whisk together all custard ingredients without mess.
Whisk: Helps blend ingredients thoroughly for a smooth custard mixture.

Ingredients

For the French Toast

1 12 pack King’s Hawaiian Rolls
3 large eggs
3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Pinch of salt
4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)

Powdered sugar (fresh fruit, maple syrup for serving)

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined. Then whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Soak the Rolls

Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in effectively. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture. Let them soak for 30 seconds on each side. Be careful not to soak them too long; otherwise, they may get soggy.

Step 3: Cook the Rolls

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Cook the soaked rolls for 30 to 60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Turn them carefully with a spatula to ensure all sides are crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Enjoy this delightful breakfast creation!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.

Classic Toppings

Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and elegance.
Maple Syrup: Drizzle on top for that classic breakfast flavor.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a pop of color and freshness.

Gourmet Enhancements

Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream brings a creamy texture.
Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle some on top for an indulgent twist.
Coconut Flakes: Add toasted coconut for a tropical flair that complements the rolls.

Accompaniments

Syrup Varieties: Try different syrups like caramel or berry compote for unique flavors.
Yogurt Parfait: Serve alongside yogurt layered with granola and fruit for a balanced meal.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To achieve the ultimate Hawaiian Roll French Toast, keep these tips in mind:

Use Fresh Rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls soak up custard better, leading to a fluffier texture.
Don’t Over-Soak: Limit soaking time to avoid soggy bread; 30 seconds per side is ideal.
Adjust Heat Carefully: Cook on medium-low heat to ensure even browning without burning.
Experiment with Flavors: Try different extracts like almond or coconut for varied tastes.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Pairing sides with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options:

Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory contrast to the sweet French toast.
Breakfast Sausage: Juicy sausage links provide heartiness to your plate.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the toast.
Eggs Benedict: For a more elaborate brunch, serve this classic dish alongside.
Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer great texture and flavor harmony.
Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl can be a refreshing side option that’s healthy too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast from good to great. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of:

Over-soaking the rolls: If you soak the rolls for too long, they can become soggy. Limit soaking to 30 seconds for the perfect texture.
Not using enough butter: Butter adds flavor and helps achieve that golden-brown finish. Make sure to use enough in your skillet or griddle.
Skipping the poking step: Poking holes in the rolls allows the custard to soak in better. Don’t skip this step for maximum flavor.
Cooking on high heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Medium-low heat is best for even cooking.
Neglecting toppings: While the French toast is delicious on its own, toppings like powdered sugar, fresh fruits, and maple syrup add extra flavor and visual appeal.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped slices for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What bread works best for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

You should use King’s Hawaiian Rolls as they provide a sweet and soft base that enhances the dish’s flavor.

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time and soak the rolls just before cooking.

How can I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Consider adding different spices like nutmeg or using flavored extracts such as almond or coconut for a unique twist.

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for brunch?

Absolutely! It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a fun twist to traditional brunch menus.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is an irresistible breakfast option that combines sweetness with comfort. With its fluffy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with toppings or spices to make it your own!

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!