Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe transforms sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls into a decadent breakfast treat. With their soft texture and slight sweetness, these rolls soak up the rich custard perfectly, giving you a delicious twist on classic French toast. Ideal for a weekend brunch or a special family breakfast, this dish is sure to please everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Sweet and Fluffy: Hawaiian rolls are naturally sweet, making them the perfect base for French toast.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together quickly for a delicious breakfast.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for serving a crowd, whether for a cozy family breakfast or brunch with friends.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, syrup, or whipped cream!
Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- 1 package (12 rolls) of Hawaiian sweet rolls, left whole (do not separate)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for added richness)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit (for serving)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Knife (to cut rolls)
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls
- Keep the Hawaiian rolls together as one whole block. Cut them horizontally in half to create two large slabs—one top half and one bottom half—just like you would cut a sandwich.
Step 2: Make the Custard 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls 3. Place the two slabs of rolls cut-side down in the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, ensuring the rolls absorb the custard evenly.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast 4. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, carefully transfer one slab of the soaked rolls to the skillet, cut-side down. 5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the second slab, adding more butter as needed.
Step 5: Serve 6. Once both slabs are cooked, cut the French toast into individual rolls and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- Sides: Pair with crispy bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast spread.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Use Day-Old Rolls: Slightly stale Hawaiian rolls work even better for this recipe because they absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.
- Soaking Time: Don’t rush the soaking process—letting the rolls absorb the custard ensures a soft, flavorful French toast.
- Cooking: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the French toast before it’s fully cooked through.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain its crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked French toast for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use other types of rolls?
A: Yes, you can use other soft rolls or even regular bread, but the sweetness and fluffiness of Hawaiian rolls give this dish its unique flavor.
Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Use almond milk, coconut milk, or any non-dairy alternative, and replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the French toast and store it in the fridge or freezer, then reheat in the oven or toaster oven for a quick breakfast.
Conclusion: A Breakfast Delight!
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a sweet, fluffy twist on a breakfast classic. The rolls soak up the custard beautifully, making them soft on the inside with a golden, slightly crisp exterior. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weekend breakfast, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Enjoy these delicious French toast rolls and don’t forget to top them with your favorite breakfast toppings!
