As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of warm, golden-brown bread wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a tropical paradise. That’s the magic of Hawaiian Roll French Toast! This breakfast delight combines the irresistible sweetness of soft Hawaiian rolls with a creamy custard, creating a dish that’s not just quick and easy but also perfect for turning any morning into a special occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself on a lazy weekend, this recipe guarantees a smile with its delightful flavors and fluffy texture. And the best part? You can get creative with toppings, making it a versatile treat. Curious about how to make this tropical escape at home? Let’s dive in!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast a Must-Try?

Simplicity, this recipe requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy mornings. Tropical flavors will brighten your day, bringing the essence of vacation right to your breakfast table. Versatility means you can customize it with your favorite toppings, whether you crave fresh berries or rich chocolate syrup. Crowd-pleaser for gatherings, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike! If you love creative twists on classic recipes, you won’t want to miss out on our Sausage Rolls with Hot Honey and Thyme for an unforgettable brunch spread!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

Get ready to create a tropical breakfast sensation with these essential ingredients.

For the Custard

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – Their unique sweetness and texture elevate the dish; you can substitute with any soft bread if needed.
Large Eggs (6) – Provides the structure and richness essential for the custard’s creamy texture.
Milk (1 cup, whole recommended) – Adds creaminess; feel free to use any milk for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream (1/4 cup) – Contributes richness; can also use half-and-half for a slightly lighter variation.
Granulated Sugar (2 tablespoons) – Sweetens the custard—adjust based on your preferred sweetness level.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; use almond extract for a delightful twist if desired.
Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon) – Infuses warmth and spice, making it comforting to taste.
Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds an extra layer of warmth; freshly grated is preferred for the best aroma.
Pinch of Salt – Balances flavors, enhancing all the sweetness in the custard.

For Cooking

Butter (4 tablespoons, divided) – Perfect for cooking the French toast; you can swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.

Optional Toppings

Maple Syrup – A classic choice for drizzling over the top.
Powdered Sugar – Adds a light, sweet dusting for presentation.
Fresh Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries bring freshness and vibrancy to the plate.
Whipped Cream – A luxurious, creamy addition for that special touch.
Chopped Nuts – Adds crunch and a nutty flavor to enhance the experience.
Coconut Flakes – For a tropical twist, these will perfectly complement the Hawaiian rolls.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s bring this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Whisk Custard
In a large bowl, crack open 6 large eggs and whisk them together with 1 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a rich custard perfect for soaking Hawaiian rolls.

Step 2: Prepare Rolls
Carefully slice your Hawaiian sweet rolls, ensuring to keep the halves intact. If using a slab of rolls, simply separate them without fully cutting through. This will allow them to soak in the custard while retaining their shape. Lay the rolls on a plate, ready for their delicious custard bath, and make sure you have space to work with!

Step 3: Soak Rolls
Take each slice of the Hawaiian rolls and immerse them in the custard mixture for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Ensure that they are fully saturated but not falling apart. The custard should thoroughly soak into the rolls, allowing them to absorb all that sweet flavor and creaminess for the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 4: Heat Skillet
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the skillet. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter is bubbly and begins to slightly brown, releasing a delicious aroma. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust on your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 5: Cook Toast
Carefully place the soaked rolls in the hot skillet, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn, and enjoy the fragrant smell filling your kitchen as they transform into fluffy, tempting French toast.

Step 6: Repeat Cooking
After the first batch is done, add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet as needed. Continue with the remaining rolls, cooking them until they reach that gorgeous golden hue. The delicious aroma of Hawaiian Roll French Toast will make it hard to wait, but patience is key for perfecting this breakfast treat.

Step 7: Check Doneness
To ensure each piece is fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the toast. It should come out clean when the French toast is ready. If not, return the rolls to the skillet for another minute or so. This step guarantees that every bite of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is cooked to perfection, light, and fluffy inside.

Step 8: Serve Immediately
Once all the rolls are done, pile them onto a warm plate and serve immediately. Top with your favorite additions, such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy the delightful tropical flavors of this Hawaiian Roll French Toast while it’s warm—it’s the ultimate breakfast indulgence!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these enticing twists that elevate the dish beyond the classic version!

Tropical Paradise: Top with mango, pineapple, and coconut for a refreshing, fruity finish that screams vacation vibes. The burst of tropical flavors adds a delightful twist to the rich custard.
Peanut Butter Bliss: Spread peanut butter between the rolls before soaking and serve with sliced bananas for a creamy, satisfying bite. The combination of nutty and sweet is heavenly!
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add cocoa powder to the custard mixture, then drizzle with chocolate syrup and top with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
Savory Twist: Complement your French toast with crispy bacon or a fried egg for a delicious contrast of flavors. This savory addition makes for a well-rounded breakfast that satisfies all cravings.
Stuffed French Toast: Fill the rolls with cream cheese or your favorite jam before soaking them in the custard. This surprise filling creates an extra layer of delight in every bite!
Cinnamon Roll Variation: Add cinnamon swirls to the batter or top your French toast with a sweet glaze reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. It’s a fun way to reinvent a traditional favorite!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts into the custard or sprinkle them on top for an added crunch. Walnuts or pecans provide a satisfying texture that complements the softness of the rolls.
Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the custard for a subtle heat that enhances the sweetness of the dish. This unique twist will surprise and delight your taste buds.

By exploring these variations, you can create a delightful array of Hawaiian Roll French Toast options that cater to everyone’s tastes! And if you’re interested in more delicious ideas, don’t forget to check out our scrumptious French Onion Meatloaf for a comforting family dinner!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly made Hawaiian Roll French Toast immediately for the best texture; avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on a skillet or in the microwave for a quick breakfast treat.
Freezer: Freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Place pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the toaster or oven for best results.
Reheating: For optimal results, reheat on the stove over medium heat with a little butter until warmed through and crispy again—perfect for a Sunday brunch revival!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Indulge in a delightful breakfast experience that pairs sweet, tropical flavors with irresistible textures.

Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet softness of French toast, creating a perfect flavor balance.
Fresh Tropical Fruit: Sliced mango, kiwi, or pineapple brings a burst of juiciness, enhancing the tropical theme while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
Maple Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream infused with maple syrup adds a rich sweetness, elevating each bite into a creamy paradise.
Coconut Curry Sausages: Spiced sausage links offer a savory twist, contrasting nicely with the sweetness of the French toast and enhancing breakfast flavors.
Chocolate Drizzle: A warm drizzle of chocolate sauce transforms your dish into a decadent treat, ideal for special occasions or lazy weekends.
Iced Vanilla Latte: Complementing the dish with a creamy iced coffee adds a refreshing element, perfect for sipping alongside your breakfast delight.
Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola on top adds texture and a delightful nutty flavor, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft French toast.
Lemon Blueberry Compote: A tart and sweet sauce complements the richness of the French toast, adding a burst of flavor with each spoonful.
Caramelized Bananas: Warm, caramelized bananas give a touch of sweetness and a hint of nostalgia, making every bite feel cozy and comforting.
Hibiscus Iced Tea: A tropical drink to sip on, its floral notes complement the dish’s sweetness, making each mouthful feel like a vacation.

Make Ahead Options

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy mornings! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk everything together and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can soak the Hawaiian rolls in the custard for up to 3 hours before cooking; just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, heat your skillet, cook the soaked rolls until golden brown, and enjoy the delightful tropical flavors that are just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Day-Old Rolls: Using day-old Hawaiian rolls is ideal for soaking, as they absorb the custard without disintegrating, ensuring a firmer French toast.
Soaking Time: Avoid sogginess by soaking rolls for just 2-3 minutes per side, but adjust according to the bread’s texture; it should be saturated yet intact.
Temperature Control: Cook on medium heat to achieve a golden crust without burning the outside while keeping the inside fluffy—patience pays off!
Taste Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the rolls are cooked through. If the toothpick comes out clean, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is ready to serve!
Keep Warm: If preparing in batches, keep the cooked French toast in a warm oven (200°F) to prevent sogginess while you finish cooking remaining rolls.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Hawaiian rolls?
When selecting Hawaiian rolls, look for those that are soft with no dark spots or signs of mold. They should be slightly sweet and pillowy. If Hawaiian rolls aren’t available, any soft bread like brioche or challah can work wonderfully too!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, lightly warm them in a skillet or microwave. This method will preserve their fluffy texture and warm flavors!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked French toast pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the toaster or oven until warmed through.

My French toast turned out soggy; what went wrong?
Sogginess usually occurs if the bread is soaked for too long or if it wasn’t day-old. Aim for about 2-3 minutes per side for soaking; if you’re using fresh rolls, try a shorter soaking time to prevent them from falling apart.

Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk and coconut oil in place of butter. If you’re concerned about egg allergies, a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) can act as a substitute, although the texture may vary.

Is this suitable for kids or those with allergies?
Yes, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is typically a crowd-pleaser! However, be mindful of any specific allergies. You can easily make it nut-free or dairy-free as mentioned above, and it can also be enjoyed by children. Just consider the sweetness level depending on their preferences!