The aroma of warm, sweet Hawaiian rolls sizzling in a buttery skillet is enough to transport me straight to a sun-soaked brunch with friends. This Hawaiian Roll French Toast combines the soft, fluffy goodness of King’s Hawaiian rolls with a creamy custard, making an easy recipe that promises comfort without the fuss. It’s the ultimate solution for those lazy weekend mornings when you want a treat that feels special yet requires minimal effort. Plus, it’s an impressive way to elevate your breakfast or brunch gatherings, sure to garner compliments from everyone at the table. Are you ready to discover how to whip up this delightful twist on a classic dish?

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast so special?

Indulgent, Sweet Delight: Each bite showcases the unique sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, transforming breakfast into an irresistible treat.
Effortless Preparation: With just four simple steps, this easy recipe requires minimal cooking experience, making it perfect for chefs of all levels.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at brunch or family gatherings, and watch your guests rave about this decadent twist on a beloved classic.
Versatile Toppings: Customize to your taste—whether you prefer fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup, the options are endless. For more delicious brunch ideas, check out my Sausage Rolls Hot recipe!
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare the custard mixture the night before, making it a time-saving option for busy mornings. This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is truly a lovely way to treat yourself and your loved ones!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the Custard

Eggs – Provide structure; ensure full incorporation for a creamy custard.
Milk (or Half-and-half) – Adds richness; adjust for desired creaminess.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma; use pure for better flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm, spicy notes; can substitute with nutmeg for a different profile.
Brown Sugar – Introduces sweetness and depth; white sugar can be used if necessary.

For the French Toast

Hawaiian Rolls – The base of the dish; soft and slightly sweet, ideal for soaking in the custard, with no substitute for this unique flavor and texture.
Butter – For frying; contributes to a golden crust, use unsalted for better control over saltiness.

Optional Toppings

Powdered Sugar – Provide a sweet finishing touch; dust before serving for an elegant presentation.
Fresh Berries – Add a burst of color and freshness; strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are great options.
Maple Syrup – Drizzle for a classic sweetness; enhances the overall flavor and comfort of the dish.

This enticing Hawaiian Roll French Toast is bound to bring joy to your cozy mornings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup of milk (or half-and-half), 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, ensuring the sugar dissolves fully. This creamy custard will infuse the Hawaiian Roll French Toast with sweet flavor, making it the ideal base for soaking the rolls.

Step 2: Soak Rolls
Take 6 Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally. Poke several small holes in the bottom of each roll to allow the custard to soak in better. Dip each half into the egg mixture, ensuring to soak for about 30 seconds on each side; you want them well-coated but not overly soggy. Lay them aside on a plate, ready for cooking.

Step 3: Cook Toast
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and coat the pan. Once the butter is sizzling and fragrant, add the soaked rolls cut side down. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown; keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Flip to brown the other side for another 2-3 minutes until evenly crisped.

Step 4: Serve Warm
Once your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is perfectly golden and cooked through, transfer them to a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and an inviting presentation. Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup to enhance the flavors, and serve immediately while still warm for an irresistible breakfast treat.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Add your unique touch to this delightful dish with these simple variations!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a creamy vegan option. The coconut will enhance that tropical vibe!
Fruit-Infused: Mix in fresh berries or diced bananas into the egg mixture for added flavor bursts. A twist of fruit adds sweetness and texture!
Tropical Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the egg mixture or sprinkle on top before serving. It’ll transport you straight to a beachy paradise.
Savory Style: Add crumbled bacon or sausage into the custard for a surprising savory twist. The balance of flavors creates a unique brunch experience!
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top before frying for an extra crunch. It adds a lovely texture contrast to the soft rolls.
Choco-Lovers: Stir in mini chocolate chips into the custard for a decadent, dessert-inspired version. Who could resist chocolatey goodness in the morning?
Spiced Delight: Experiment with pumpkin spice or nutmeg instead of cinnamon for a seasonal or unique flavor. It’s a warm hug in every bite.
Indulgent Toppings: Serve with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extravagant dessert-style treat. Elevate your brunch to a whole new level!

These variations let you get creative, whether you follow the traditional route or venture out for adventurous flavors. Speaking of delicious meals, try my comforting French Onion Meatloaf for your next family feast! Enjoy the exploration!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

The delightfully sweet aroma of Hawaiian Roll French Toast can easily set the stage for a cozy, memorable brunch experience.

Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon perfectly balances the sweetness of the French toast, creating a harmonious flavor duo that delights the palate.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh berries, melon, and citrus adds a refreshing tartness and a pop of color to your table, enhancing the overall brunch experience.
Maple Syrup Glaze: Drizzling rich, warm maple syrup over the French toast deepens the sweet experience, adding a delightful sticky texture that appeals to everyone.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this tropical twist on whipped cream adds a creamy richness that complements the Hawaiian flavors beautifully and invites a touch of indulgence.
Mimosas: Bright, bubbly mimosas elevate your brunch with a refreshing citrusy zing, creating a celebratory mood perfect for special gatherings or lazy weekend mornings alike.
Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche adds a hearty element to your meal, balancing out the sweetness with savory flavors like cheese and veggies—a staple for brunch lovers!
Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also makes for an elegant presentation, transforming your meal into a feast for the eyes as well.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of a chai latte pair beautifully with the sweet comfort of the French toast, creating a cozy and aromatic beverage to sip alongside your meal.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Mix Thoroughly: Ensure you whisk the egg mixture well so that the sugar and spices dissolve completely, leading to a creamy custard that evenly coats your rolls.
Avoid Sogginess: When soaking the Hawaiian rolls, limit soaking time to 30 seconds per side. This prevents the rolls from becoming overly soggy and maintains their beautiful texture.
Cook in Batches: Fry the rolls in small batches to achieve that golden crust. Cooking too many at once can cause steaming instead of frying, resulting in less crispy toast.
Watch the Heat: Keep the skillet at a medium heat to avoid burning. If the butter begins to brown too quickly, lower the heat to ensure even cooking without scorching.
Topping Ideas: Elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with toppings like whipped cream or a tropical drizzle of coconut syrup for an exciting twist on this comforting recipe.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warm.

Freezer: Freeze cooked French toast pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Transfer to an airtight container after frozen and enjoy within a month for best quality.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat frozen pieces in the toaster or oven, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired, to restore that golden crust.

Make-Ahead Tips: You can also prepare the custard and soak the rolls the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, and then cook them fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar, then storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can slice the Hawaiian rolls and soak them in the custard up to 1 hour before cooking—they’ll maintain their delicious texture if you refrigerate them covered. When you’re ready to serve, just heat butter in a skillet and cook the soaked rolls for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This advance prep will save you time in the morning while ensuring your French toast is just as delightful!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely use King’s Hawaiian rolls for this recipe! They’re soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for soaking in the custard. Other rolls may not replicate the unique flavor and texture this dish requires.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
I recommend placing any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days! Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or the microwave until warmed through, so they’re just as tasty as when you first made them.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes! To freeze, first place cooked pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container, where they can be enjoyed for up to a month. For the best results, reheat in a toaster or oven to get that lovely crispy texture back!

What if my French toast turns out soggy?
If your Hawaiian Roll French Toast ends up too soggy, it may be due to over-soaking the rolls. Stick to the recommended 30 seconds on each side to avoid this. Cooking in smaller batches can also help maintain that lovely crispy outside while keeping the inside fluffy.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is vegetarian! However, if you’re concerned about allergies, make sure to check the labels on your Hawaiian rolls for gluten or dairy if someone at your table is sensitive. You could also try substituting with dairy-free milk and egg alternatives for a vegan version!

Can I prepare the custard mixture in advance?
Yes, indeed! You can whisk the custard mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also soak the rolls and cover them well before refrigerating for up to an hour prior to cooking. This makes busy mornings much more manageable while still providing a delicious breakfast!