Hawaiian Roll French Toast: A Sweet and Fluffy Breakfast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the perfect twist on a classic breakfast dish. With its soft and slightly sweet texture, Hawaiian rolls soak up the rich egg mixture beautifully, creating a custardy center with a crisp golden exterior. This recipe is a game-changer for breakfast lovers, bringing together the comforting flavors of traditional French toast with the unique taste of Hawaiian sweet rolls.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or just to satisfy a craving, this dish comes together quickly with simple ingredients. The rolls are pre-portioned, making them ideal for individual servings, and their slight sweetness eliminates the need for excessive sugar in the batter.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is incredibly versatile—you can serve it with fresh fruits, maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of indulgence. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover Hawaiian rolls before they go stale. Once you try this version of French toast, you may never go back to regular bread again!

Category	Details
Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes
Serving Size	2-4 servings
Calories	~250-350 per serving (varies)
Protein	~8g per serving
Carbohydrates	~35-45g per serving
Fat	~10-15g per serving
Sugar	~10-15g per serving
Gluten-Free	No (unless using GF Hawaiian rolls)
Vegan	No (contains eggs and dairy)
Dairy-Free	Can be made dairy-free (use alternatives)
Best Served With	Maple syrup, fruits, whipped cream
Storage	Up to 3 days in the fridge
Reheating Method	Stove, oven, or air fryer

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet breakfast treats, then Hawaiian Roll French Toast is about to become your new favorite dish. Here’s why:

Incredibly Soft Texture – Hawaiian rolls have a pillowy texture that soaks up the custard mixture perfectly, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Naturally Sweet Flavor – Unlike regular bread, Hawaiian rolls add a hint of sweetness without the need for too much added sugar.
Quick and Easy to Make – With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this delicious breakfast in no time.
Perfect for Special Occasions – Whether it’s a family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a cozy weekend morning, this dish feels indulgent and special.
Customizable Toppings – From classic maple syrup to fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate, you can dress up your French toast however you like.
Great Way to Use Leftover Rolls – If you have extra Hawaiian rolls from a previous meal, this is a fantastic way to turn them into a delicious breakfast.

Ingredients to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have all the ingredients ready. The key to perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast is using high-quality ingredients that enhance the texture and flavor.

Main Ingredients:

Hawaiian Rolls (6-8 rolls) – These soft, slightly sweet rolls absorb the custard mixture well, giving the French toast a fluffy texture with a crisp exterior.
Eggs (2 large) – Eggs provide structure and help create a rich, custard-like coating on the rolls.
Milk (½ cup, whole or any preferred type) – Milk adds moisture and creaminess to the batter. You can substitute with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Heavy Cream (¼ cup, optional) – This adds extra richness and enhances the custard texture, making the French toast even more indulgent.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
Cinnamon (½ teaspoon, optional) – Adds a subtle spice that pairs well with the sweetness of the rolls.
Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon, optional) – A tiny pinch of nutmeg enhances the warm, comforting flavor.
Sugar (1 tablespoon, optional) – Hawaiian rolls are already slightly sweet, but a little sugar can enhance the flavor. You can use brown sugar, white sugar, or even maple syrup.
Butter (for cooking, about 1-2 tablespoons) – Gives the French toast a golden, crispy finish and prevents sticking.
Salt (a pinch) – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Optional Toppings:

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Whipped cream
Honey
Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)

Steps to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is simple, but following the correct steps ensures a perfectly cooked, golden, and flavorful breakfast.

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard-like mixture will soak into the Hawaiian rolls, giving them a rich and creamy texture when cooked.

Step 2: Slice or Keep the Rolls Whole

You have two options for preparing the Hawaiian rolls:

Keep them whole – This works well for a more traditional look, giving a soft, pillowy center.
Slice them in half – This allows the rolls to absorb more custard and cook more evenly.

If slicing, cut each roll in half horizontally.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls in the Mixture

Place the Hawaiian rolls into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 15-20 seconds per side. Be careful not to let them sit too long, or they may become too soggy and fall apart. Make sure they are fully coated but not overly saturated.

Step 4: Preheat and Grease the Pan

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, ensuring it coats the surface evenly. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown exterior on the rolls.

Step 5: Cook the Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Place the soaked Hawaiian rolls onto the hot pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. If cooking whole rolls, you may need to rotate them to cook evenly on all sides.

If making a large batch, cook in batches and add more butter as needed to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve Immediately with Toppings

Once cooked, transfer the French toast to a plate and top with maple syrup, fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is best enjoyed fresh, with a variety of delicious toppings and sides that enhance its sweet and fluffy texture. One of the most classic ways to serve it is with a drizzle of maple syrup, allowing the buttery rolls to soak up the rich flavor. The soft, pillowy texture of the rolls pairs well with fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries, adding a refreshing contrast to the warm toast.

For those who enjoy an extra indulgence, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a generous dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dish into a decadent breakfast or dessert. Some prefer to enhance the flavor further by adding a spread of nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter, which adds creaminess and a boost of protein.

If you’re serving this for brunch or a family breakfast, pairing it with crispy bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs creates a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. For an even richer experience, try drizzling caramel or chocolate sauce over the French toast, transforming it into a dessert-like treat. However you serve it, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast in Advance?

Preparing Hawaiian Roll French Toast in advance is not only possible but also a great way to save time for busy mornings. One of the best ways to make the preparation easier is by preparing the custard mixture ahead of time. The mixture can be whisked together and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply whisk it again and proceed with dipping the rolls.

Another way to prepare in advance is by soaking the Hawaiian rolls overnight. Placing them in a baking dish and pouring the custard mixture over them allows the flavors to infuse deeply. This results in an even richer and creamier texture when cooked the next day. If you choose this method, cover the dish and store it in the refrigerator overnight, then cook as usual in the morning.

Fully cooking the French toast ahead of time is also an option. Once cooked, the French toast can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. When ready to serve, it can be quickly reheated using a skillet, oven, or air fryer to restore its crispy texture. By following these meal prep tips, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal effort.

Tips and Tricks

To achieve the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, there are a few essential techniques to keep in mind. One of the most important tips is to avoid over-soaking the rolls. Since Hawaiian rolls are incredibly soft, they absorb liquid quickly, and leaving them in the custard for too long can cause them to become overly soggy. A brief 15-20 second soak on each side is enough to ensure they absorb the flavors without falling apart.

Another key tip is to cook the French toast over medium heat. Using heat that is too high can result in the outside becoming too dark while the inside remains undercooked. Cooking at a steady medium heat allows the custard to cook through evenly while creating a perfectly golden crust.

For added flavor, consider enhancing the custard mixture with a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract. These simple additions bring warmth and depth to the flavor profile of the dish. Using butter in the skillet instead of oil can also enhance the richness of the French toast while helping to create a crispy, golden-brown crust.

Lastly, once the French toast is cooked, let it rest for a minute before serving. This brief resting period helps the custard fully set inside the rolls, preventing them from feeling mushy when eaten. With these tips and tricks, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will turn out perfectly every time.

Variations of Hawaiian Roll French Toast

There are many ways to customize Hawaiian Roll French Toast to suit different tastes and occasions. One of the most popular variations is Stuffed Hawaiian Roll French Toast, where the rolls are sliced open and filled with delicious fillings such as cream cheese, Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit preserves before being dipped in the custard. This creates a rich and indulgent twist on the classic recipe.

Another exciting variation is Baked Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole, which eliminates the need for stovetop cooking. Instead, the rolls are placed in a baking dish, covered in custard, and baked in the oven until golden brown. This method is perfect for serving a crowd and requires minimal effort.

For those who prefer a savory version, Savory Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be made by omitting the sugar and cinnamon and instead adding salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. This variation pairs well with cheese, avocado, or crispy bacon for a delicious breakfast alternative.

If you love tropical flavors, Coconut Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a great choice. By adding shredded coconut to the custard mixture or rolling the soaked rolls in coconut flakes before cooking, you can create a crispy, flavorful version with a hint of the tropics.

Another fun twist is Chocolate Chip Hawaiian Roll French Toast, which involves mixing chocolate chips into the batter or sprinkling them over the finished toast. This variation is especially loved by kids and makes for a delightful treat. With so many ways to customize the recipe, you can enjoy Hawaiian Roll French Toast in endless delicious forms.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage is essential for keeping leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh and delicious. If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, storing them in the refrigerator is the best option. Place the cooked French toast in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, make sure the toast is completely cool before storing, as trapping heat in the container can create condensation and lead to sogginess.

For longer storage, freezing is an excellent choice. To freeze, allow the French toast to cool completely, then place individual slices on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. Once they are slightly firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents the slices from sticking together and makes it easy to reheat just the amount you need. Frozen French toast can last for up to two months without losing its flavor and texture.

To keep the texture crisp when storing, avoid adding syrup or other toppings before refrigerating or freezing. Instead, add them after reheating for the best results. By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast even days after making it.

Can We Reheat Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast properly ensures that it remains crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The best method for reheating is on the stovetop, as this helps restore its golden-brown crust. To do this, simply heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of butter, and cook each slice for one to two minutes per side until warm and crisp.

Another great option is using the oven or toaster oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet. Bake for five to seven minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is especially useful for reheating multiple slices at once.

For a quick and efficient reheating method, the air fryer works well. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat the French toast for about three to four minutes. This method helps maintain the crispy texture while heating the toast evenly.

While the microwave is an option, it is not the best choice as it can make the French toast soft and slightly soggy. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, checking after each interval to prevent overheating.

Each reheating method offers different benefits, but using a skillet or oven will give the best results for crispy and flavorful French toast.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

Yes, you can use other types of bread, such as brioche, challah, or even regular sandwich bread. However, Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness and fluffy texture that enhances the flavor of the French toast.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. For a butter alternative, use dairy-free butter or coconut oil to cook the French toast.

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast gluten-free?

No, traditional Hawaiian rolls contain gluten. If you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free sweet rolls or bread and use them in the same way as the original recipe.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes! You can add protein powder to the egg mixture or serve the French toast with Greek yogurt, nut butter, or a side of eggs to increase the protein content.

Why is my French toast soggy?

Sogginess happens when the bread absorbs too much custard or isn’t cooked at the right temperature. Make sure not to soak the rolls for too long, and cook over medium heat to allow the custard to fully cook through.

Can I use an air fryer to cook Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), place the soaked rolls in a single layer, and cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method makes them extra crispy on the outside while keeping them soft inside.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and reheat them in a skillet, oven, or air fryer when ready to eat.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast that brings a sweet and fluffy twist to the classic French toast recipe. Whether you enjoy it with syrup, fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. With the option to meal prep, store, and reheat it, you can enjoy this delightful treat anytime. Plus, with the variations and customization options, you can create different flavors to suit your taste. Try making this for your next breakfast or brunch and enjoy a comforting, indulgent meal!