Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

If you love sweet and fluffy breakfast options, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a must-try! This recipe transforms soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls into golden, custardy bites of French toast perfection. Whether you’re preparing a special weekend brunch or a quick weekday treat, this dish is easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls (for egg custard mixture)
• Whisk or fork (to blend eggs, milk, and spices)
• Nonstick skillet or griddle (for even cooking)
• Spatula (for flipping the rolls)
• Tongs (to dip and remove rolls from custard)
• Measuring cups and spoons (for accuracy)
• Baking dish (optional, if making a baked version)

Ingredients

For the French Toast

• 12 Hawaiian rolls
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking

Optional Toppings

• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh fruits (berries, bananas, or pineapple slices)
• Whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls

1. Slice the Rolls: Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Keep them whole for easy dipping or separate them into individual rolls if preferred.
2. Set Aside: Place the rolls on a plate or baking sheet, ready for dipping.

Step 2: Make the Custard

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
2. Transfer to a Shallow Dish: Pour the custard mixture into a shallow dish, such as a pie plate, to make dipping easier.

Step 3: Dip the Rolls

1. Soak the Rolls: Working with a few at a time, dip the Hawaiian rolls into the custard mixture. Let them soak for 5–10 seconds on each side, ensuring they absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
2. Shake Off Excess: Gently shake off any excess custard and set the dipped rolls aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

1. Heat the Pan: Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and coat the pan evenly.
2. Cook the Rolls: Place the soaked rolls in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches, adding more butter as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Plate the Rolls: Arrange the French toast on a serving plate.
2. Add Toppings: Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, and add fresh fruits or whipped cream as desired.
3. Serve Warm: Enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls yield the softest and fluffiest French toast, but slightly stale rolls can also work well as they absorb the custard without falling apart.
• Custard Consistency: Mix the custard thoroughly to ensure the sugar and cinnamon are evenly distributed.
• Cooking Temperature: Cook on medium heat to prevent the rolls from browning too quickly before the inside is cooked.
• Batch Cooking: Keep cooked French toast warm in a 200°F oven while finishing the rest.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Breakfast: Pair with scrambled eggs and crispy bacon for a hearty morning meal.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Serve alongside fresh juice or mimosas for a delightful brunch spread.
• Dessert-Style: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Pro Tips

• Use day-old Hawaiian rolls — they soak up custard better without falling apart.
• Don’t over-soak — just a quick dip in the custard mixture to avoid sogginess.
• Cook on medium-low heat to ensure the inside cooks without burning the outside.
• Add a little butter to the pan for flavor and a golden crust.
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup for a perfect finish.

🔄 Variations

• Stuffed: Fill with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves before dipping.
• Baked: Place custard-soaked rolls in a baking dish, top with cinnamon-sugar, and bake.
• Fruity: Top with sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries.
• Savory: Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and herbs to the custard for a brunch twist.
• Coconut: Add shredded coconut to the batter or top for tropical flair.

🥗 Fit-Your-Diet Adjustments

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sweet rolls or bread.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk; use plant-based butter.
• Low-Sugar: Skip powdered sugar and syrup; use sugar-free alternatives or fruit topping.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water), plant-based milk, and vegan butter.

❓ FAQs

• Can I prep this the night before?
  Yes! Mix the custard and store separately. You can also assemble and refrigerate if baking.
• Do I need to cut the rolls?
  You can leave them whole for pull-apart French toast or slice in halves for more crispiness.
• How do I store leftovers?
  Keep in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
• Can I freeze them?
  Yes, freeze cooked rolls and reheat in a toaster oven or oven.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delicious twist on a breakfast classic. The sweet, buttery rolls soak up the custard beautifully, resulting in a golden, fluffy, and flavorful dish. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!