Name: Heavenly Hawaiian Roll French Toast for a Cozy Brunch
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 4 large Eggs (Provide structure and richness); 1 cup Milk or Half-and-Half (Dairy-free option: almond milk); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Adds sweetness and aroma); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Introduces warm flavor notes); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Sweetens the custard mixture); 12 rolls King’s Hawaiian Rolls (Soft and sweet texture); 1 tablespoon Butter (For cooking and flavor)

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As I stood in my kitchen one lazy Sunday morning, the soft aroma of vanilla and cinnamon wafted through the air, hinting at the deliciousness to come. I was about to embark on crafting a delightful breakfast that would lift even the sleepiest of spirits—Hawaiian Roll French Toast. This dish is a sweet and buttery take on a beloved classic, made extraordinary by the pillowy softness of King’s Hawaiian rolls. The best part? It’s quick to whip up, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or those cozy mornings when you crave something special. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings! Are you ready to elevate your brunch game?

Why Is This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Irresistible?

Deliciously Unique: This recipe transforms breakfast with soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls, offering a delightful twist on traditional French toast.

Quick & Easy: Even novice cooks can share a delicious brunch in just a few minutes with this straightforward method.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family brunch or a cozy morning alone, this dish elevates any breakfast setting.

Customize Your Way: Add your favorite toppings like fresh berries or whipped cream for a personal touch, making each serving special.

For more fun brunch ideas, check out my Croissant French Toast or indulge in some Vanilla French Beignets. You’ll love the variety!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

• The following ingredients will create a mouthwatering dish that will brighten up your breakfast table.

For the Custard

Eggs – Provide structure and richness necessary for the perfect French toast custard.
Milk/Half-and-Half – Ensures a creamy texture; feel free to substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a delightful sweetness and aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
Cinnamon – Introduces warm, comforting flavor notes that complement the sweetness of the rolls.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the custard mixture; maple syrup can be used for a unique flavor twist.

For the Bread

King’s Hawaiian Rolls – The star ingredient delivering sweetness and a soft texture; other soft breads can be substituted if needed.

For Cooking

Butter – Used for cooking; gives a rich flavor and helps create that golden crust that everyone loves.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the delectable Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Get ready to savor each flavorful bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together four eggs and one cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Add in two teaspoons of vanilla extract, one teaspoon of cinnamon, and a quarter cup of brown sugar. Stir thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and everything is combined, creating a fragrant custard for your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 2: Slice the Hawaiian Rolls
Carefully slice each of the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half, creating a top and bottom but being cautious not to cut all the way through. This keeps the rolls intact while allowing them to soak in the custard. Poke a few small holes in the bottom of each roll with a fork to encourage maximum absorption and ensure every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Dip each half of the Hawaiian rolls into the custard mixture, making sure to soak them for about 30 seconds on each side. You want them to absorb enough custard to become moist but not soggy. Gently press down to submerge the rolls before removing them from the mixture. Lay them on a plate while you prepare to cook.

Step 4: Preheat the Skillet
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat, and add a tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt completely. Swirl the butter around to coat the surface evenly. Monitor the skillet’s temperature; a drop of water should sizzle upon contact, indicating it’s ready for your delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Once the butter is melted, place the soaked rolls cut side down on the skillet. Cook them for approximately 3-4 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown color. Reduce the heat if necessary to avoid burning, flipping them carefully to cook the other side for the same amount of time ensuring both sides achieve that perfect golden hue.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
As the Hawaiian Roll French Toast finishes cooking, transfer them to a warm plate. Serve them immediately, with your choice of toppings like powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Each bite should be fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside—truly a delightful treat for any brunch table!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

As you savor every indulgent bite of this delightful breakfast treat, consider these tantalizing sides and beverages to create a memorable brunch experience.

Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon perfectly balances the sweetness of the French toast, adding a savory element.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits elevate your meal, providing freshness and a colorful contrast to the rich flavors of the toast.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic pairing that enhances the sweet notes of Hawaiian Roll French Toast while adding a touch of warmth.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this creamy topping transforms your French toast into a dessert-like treat, making every bite feel decadent.
Coffee or Latte: Pair with a warm cup of coffee to awaken the senses, or enjoy a creamy latte for an indulgent morning boost.
Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries add texture and a tangy note, creating a refreshing complement to the dish.
Savory Veggie Hash: A colorful medley of sautéed spices and vegetables brings warmth and hearty satisfaction to the brunch spread.
Hot Chocolate: A rich, chocolaty drink contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the French toast, ideal for chilly mornings.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast preparations are perfect for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar together and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the Hawaiian rolls and poke holes ahead of time, keeping them in a sealed bag for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just dip the rolls into the custard and cook them in a warm skillet as directed. This allows you to enjoy a delicious brunch with minimal morning hassle, ensuring your Hawaiian Roll French Toast remains just as delightful!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Customize this delightful dish with exciting twists that will elevate your brunch experience, making it even more mouthwatering!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a creamy, dairy-free version that’s equally delicious.
The sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor, ensuring no one misses the dairy.
Sweet Spice: Add a touch of nutmeg to the custard for an aromatic depth.
Just a hint will complement the cinnamon beautifully, giving your French toast a cozy, warm essence perfect for chilly mornings.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Stir in chocolate chips to the custard for a gooey, indulgent twist.
This variation brings a rich decadence to each bite, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike!
Seasonal Fruit Compote: Top your French toast with a warm compote of seasonal fruits for a fresh touch.
Berries, peaches, or even spiced apples bring a natural sweetness that brightens up the dish and adds a burst of flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top for added texture and flavor.
The crunch complements the fluffy rolls perfectly, creating a delightful contrast with every bite!
Maple Syrup Swap: Instead of brown sugar, use maple syrup in the custard for an earthy sweetness.
It will infuse the dish with a rich flavor that beautifully enhances the rolls’ sweetness.
Savory Twist: Try adding a pinch of savory herbs, like rosemary or thyme, to the custard for an unexpected brunch treat.
The combination of sweet and savory is often delightful and keeps your taste buds guessing!

For further inspiration, why not take a look at my delectable Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls, where sweetness meets warm spices? Or perhaps indulge in the buttery goodness of Vanilla French Beignets. The possibilities are endless!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, eat within 2 hours to ensure safety and flavor retention.

Fridge: Cooked Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet for the best results.

Freezer: If you want to store for longer, freeze individual slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat in a toaster or skillet, which helps maintain that crispy outside while warming the fluffy inside of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Soaking Balance: Ensure you’re not oversoaking the rolls; aim for about 30 seconds on each side. This balance keeps them moist without becoming soggy.

Heat Control: Cook on medium-low heat to prevent burning. If your skillet is too hot, the outside may brown too quickly while the inside remains uncooked.

Cook in Batches: Avoid crowding the skillet. Working in small batches allows for even cooking, giving each roll the attention it deserves.

Reheating Perfectly: For leftovers, reheat in a toaster or skillet instead of the microwave. This method keeps the texture fluffy and crisp instead of chewy.

Creative Toppings: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or yogurt for a twist on the classic Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best Hawaiian rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely, the best Hawaiian rolls should be soft and slightly sweet, which is what makes them perfect for French toast. Look for rolls that are free from dark spots or signs of dryness. King’s Hawaiian rolls are the go-to choice, but if you don’t have them, other soft bread types like brioche or challah can work beautifully too!

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
To keep your Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the slices in a skillet to restore that crispy exterior without drying them out.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to enjoy this dish later. Just allow the cooked French toast to cool completely, then place individual slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the toaster or skillet for the best texture.

What can I do if my French toast turns out soggy?
Very! If you find your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is soggy, it may be due to oversoaking. Next time, limit the soaking time to about 30 seconds on each side. If you’re already cooking, consider cooking on lower heat so the outsides can crisp up before the insides become too saturated. You can also pop any leftovers into the toaster for a quick crisp-up!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk. If you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free sweet rolls to use as your base. Remember to always check the labels for potential allergens if serving to others.

How can I enhance the flavor of the custard mixture?
You can add a twist to your custard by including additional spices such as nutmeg or allspice—just a pinch for that extra warmth! Also, trying out different extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla can create a whole new flavor profile. Mix it up to find your perfect taste for Hawaiian Roll French Toast!