The moment I introduced Hawaiian Roll French Toast to my brunch routine, it transformed our mornings into a celebration. Picture this: the soft, pillowy texture of sweet Hawaiian rolls soaking up a rich custard made with warm vanilla and cinnamon, then sizzling to a perfect golden-brown in the skillet. Each bite is a comforting hug, making it impossible not to smile.
After a long week of meal prep and quick dinners, this indulgent recipe is exactly what we need for a cozy Saturday. What I love most about this dish is its effortless charm—while it looks impressive on the plate, it comes together in a flash. Whether serving it up for a leisurely family breakfast or delighting guests at a weekend gathering, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is sure to impress. Ready to elevate your breakfast game? Let’s dive into this sweet breakfast delight that promises happiness in every bite!
Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast so irresistible?
Irresistible flavor: The sweetness of Hawaiian rolls paired with warm vanilla and cinnamon creates a heavenly custard that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Effortless preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can serve up a delicious breakfast that looks like it took hours to prepare.
Crowd-pleaser: This dish is perfect for entertaining or weekend family breakfasts, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.
Customizable options: Add your favorite toppings, like fresh fruit or whipped cream, to make it uniquely yours.
Texture bliss: Enjoy the perfect contrast of a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy inside that melts in your mouth.
Let’s explore how to make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast that will brighten your mornings!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients
For the Custard
- Eggs – Provide structure and richness to the custard base; use large eggs for best results.
- Milk – Acts as a liquid component to the egg mixture, making the custard creamy; whole milk is preferred for richness.
- Heavy Cream – Adds a lush, decadent texture to the custard; can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a sweet aroma; pure vanilla is best for optimal flavor.
- Cinnamon – Adds warm spice and complements the sweetness of the rolls; adjust to taste for personal preference.
- Sugar – Sweetens the custard mixture; brown sugar adds a deeper caramel flavor.
For the Rolls
- Hawaiian Rolls – The star of the dish, bringing a soft, sweet texture that absorbs the custard wonderfully; other sweet breads like brioche or challah can be used as substitutes.
For Cooking
- Butter – For greasing the skillet, providing a rich flavor and helping develop a golden crust; make sure to coat the skillet well for even cooking.
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast that will make your mornings truly special!
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
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Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Aim for a light, airy consistency.
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Cut the Rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating perfect pockets to soak up that delicious custard. This will ensure every bite is sweet and satisfying.
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Dip the Rolls: Heat a skillet over medium heat and coat it generously with butter. Dip each roll half into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off to avoid sogginess while ensuring even coating.
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Cook the Rolls: Place the dipped rolls in the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp on the outside. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell heavenly!
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Serve Immediately: Arrange the golden delights on a platter, dust them with powdered sugar, and drizzle with maple syrup if desired. Serve warm for the best experience!
Optional: Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations
Embrace your creativity and customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to suit your unique taste buds! Each twist will bring a delightful surprise to your breakfast table.
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Coconut Milk: Swap regular milk or cream for coconut milk for a tropical flavor that will transport you to paradise with each bite.
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Fruit Toppings: Enhance your toast with fresh fruits like strawberries, bananas, or blueberries for a burst of color and juicy sweetness.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts or nut butter into the custard, giving the dish a delightful crunch and added richness.
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Chocolate Chips: Mix in dark or milk chocolate chips for an indulgent twist that will delight chocolate lovers of all ages.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten up the custard by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest. This adds a refreshing zing that complements the sweet rolls perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Infuse the custard with a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for a warm undertone that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free sweet bread to create a delicious, inclusive version of this beloved French toast.
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Savory Twist: Incorporate bacon bits or sausage into the custard for a savory, hearty breakfast twist that’s sure to satisfy.
With these variations, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will be a fun surprise every time!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
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Mix Thoroughly: Ensure the egg mixture is well-combined for a smooth custard that coats the rolls without clumps of sugar or cinnamon.
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Avoid Sogginess: Remember to let each roll half drip for a few seconds after dipping into the custard, preventing any soggy bites.
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Heat Management: Cook on medium heat, as too high can burn the outside before the inside cooks through properly—slow and steady wins!
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Batch Cooking: If serving a crowd, keep cooked French toast warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish all the rolls, so everyone enjoys them fresh.
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Creative Toppings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings like fresh fruits, flavored syrups, or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture and flavor to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Remember, each tip is designed to enhance your grilling experience! Enjoy preparing this delightful dish.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Elevate your brunch experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides that brighten every bite.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the French toast, providing a refreshing pop of flavor and color. Think strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for that vibrant touch!
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Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop adds a luscious richness that makes the dish feel indulgent, inviting you to savor every morsel. It’s a classic pairing that can’t be beaten.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzling this sweet, amber elixir over the warm toast enhances the flavor while adding a touch of nostalgia. It amplifies the hug of comfort you crave during breakfast!
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Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of crispy bacon provides a delightful contrast to the soft, sweet French toast, delivering a balanced bite that keeps you coming back for more.
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Coconut or Tropical Smoothie: A cool, creamy beverage will pair beautifully, enhancing the Hawaiian vibe and refreshing your palate between bites. Think crushed pineapple and coconut milk for a tropical twist!
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Cinnamon Sugar Bananas: Sautéed in a touch of butter and sugar, these sweet bananas bring warmth to the dish, harmonizing beautifully with the cinnamon-tinged French toast.
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Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm beverage completes the experience, offering a cozy accompaniment while ensuring everyone feels relaxed and satisfied during conversation.
Explore these pairings to create a brunch masterpiece that’ll be remembered long after the plates are cleared!
Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
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Room Temperature: Enjoy your Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh for the best flavor, ideally serving immediately after cooking. If left out, consume within 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the taste and texture of the dish.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 1 month. Layer parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
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Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to revive the crispy texture and warmth, making your Hawaiian Roll French Toast feel freshly made again!
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Roll French Toast preparations are perfect for busy mornings and save you precious time! You can prepare the egg custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, slice the Hawaiian rolls and store them separately in a sealed bag or container to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply dip the roll halves in the custard, cook them up in a preheated skillet, and enjoy that delightful taste just as if you’d made it fresh! With these make-ahead options, you can have a delicious brunch on the table with minimal effort, transforming your mornings into a blissful experience.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs
What kind of Hawaiian rolls should I use?
I recommend using traditional King’s Hawaiian rolls for their perfect sweetness and texture. However, if you can’t find them, you can substitute with other sweet breads like brioche or challah, which also absorb the custard beautifully.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they cool down to room temperature before sealing to avoid excess moisture inside the container, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the French toast and layer pieces in an airtight container with parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a toaster oven for that fresh-out-of-the-skillet taste.
How do I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?
To avoid sogginess, let each roll half drip for a few seconds after dipping in the custard mixture. This ensures an even coating while removing excess custard. Cooking them on medium heat also allows for a golden, crisp exterior without burning.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Yes! Those with egg or dairy allergies should seek alternatives such as egg replacers or non-dairy milk options. For pet considerations, always avoid feeding foods with sugar or dairy to pets, as they can be harmful to them.
Can I prepare the Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the egg mixture and slice the rolls a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and dip and cook them just before serving. This saves time and helps you enjoy your morning without rush, ensuring freshness.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Sweet Breakfast Bliss Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth and well-combined.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and coat with butter. Dip each roll half into the egg mixture.
- Place dipped rolls in the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Arrange on a platter, dust with powdered sugar, and drizzle with maple syrup if desired.