There’s nothing quite like waking up to the enticing scent of Hawaiian Roll French Toast wafting through the kitchen. This delightful morning dish transforms classic French toast into extraordinary, fluffy bite-sized wonders that are perfect for any breakfast occasion—even “breakfast-for-dinner” nights! The best part? This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone at the table. Imagine each decadent bite melting in your mouth, transporting you to a tropical paradise! So, are you ready to elevate your morning routine and delight your taste buds? Let’s dive into the recipe and start making some unforgettable memories!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast amazing?

Irresistible Aroma: The sweet scent of caramelized sugar and vanilla fills your kitchen, promising a delightful breakfast experience.
Fluffy Perfection: Each bite melts in your mouth, showcasing a soft, custard-like interior that contrasts beautifully with a golden brown exterior.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for any skill level and guarantees a stress-free cooking experience.
Customizable Toppings: From fresh fruit to whipped cream, you can easily personalize this dish to cater to any taste preference, making it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings. Pair it with some Soft Crescent Rolls for an even more delightful breakfast spread!
Versatile Delight: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, it brings a fun twist to your meal routine. You can also enjoy it with your favorite toppings or serve it alongside some classic Egg Cheese Toasts for a complete feast!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the Custard Mixture

King’s Hawaiian Rolls – This sweet bread is the key to achieving that unique flavor and tenderness. Substitute with challah or brioche if needed.
Eggs – Essential for binding; whisk them until frothy to ensure even distribution in the custard.
Milk – Adds creaminess; consider using almond or oat milk for a delightful dairy-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavor profile and adds aromatic touches.
Ground Cinnamon – Introduces a lovely warmth and spice; adjust to your taste for the perfect kick.
Salt – A pinch enhances sweetness; just enough to round out the flavors.

For Cooking

Butter – Essential for frying; use unsalted butter to control salt levels in the dish.

Feel free to customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with delicious toppings of your choice, like fresh fruit or whipped cream, that will make this breakfast an unforgettable treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Slice the Rolls
Begin by slicing the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating pairs for easy soaking. Use a serrated knife for clean cuts and to maintain the soft texture of the rolls. Aim for even halves to ensure uniform cooking later on, setting the stage for your delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and frothy. This custard mixture is crucial, so ensure everything is blended well to create a smooth texture. The aroma of vanilla will begin to fill your kitchen, enhancing your anticipation for the breakfast ahead.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Pour the custard mixture into a shallow dish, making it easy to dip the rolls. Take each sliced roll half and dip it into the custard for about 15-20 seconds per side, allowing them to soak but not become soggy. Watch for the bread to saturate fully; you want it to be soft but still hold its shape for the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 4: Preheat the Skillet
While the rolls soak, preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add a generous pat of unsalted butter, letting it melt and begin to bubble but not smoke. This step is essential for achieving that golden brown crust on your French toast, ensuring a beautiful texture on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside.

Step 5: Cook the Roll Halves
Carefully place the soaked roll halves into the skillet, leaving enough space to avoid overcrowding. Cook the Hawaiian Roll French Toast for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. You’ll love the sight of the sizzling bread, which indicates they are cooking to perfection.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the rolls from the skillet and serve them warm immediately. Top your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with a pat of butter and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. The sight of the melting butter alongside the syrup will elevate this delightful dish, creating a breakfast experience that is both satisfying and nostalgic.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Use a Serrated Knife: Start with a serrated knife for clean slices of rolls. This avoids squishing them and ensures even soaking.

Control the Heat: Monitor the skillet’s temperature closely. Medium heat helps cook the inside thoroughly while preventing burnt edges.

Watch Soaking Time: Limit soak time to 15-20 seconds per side. Over-soaking can lead to sogginess in your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Drain Excess Custard: Allow excess custard to drip off before cooking. This helps achieve a perfect balance between soft and firm textures.

Cook in Batches: Give the rolls space in the skillet to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding for the best golden-brown finish on all sides!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance for easy access. Additionally, you can slice the rolls and store them separately to ensure they stay fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful breakfast, simply soak the roll halves in the chilled custard mixture for 15-20 seconds, then cook them in a preheated skillet as instructed. This way, your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will be just as delicious, elevating busy mornings with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps your Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh and ready for a quick breakfast.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To reheat, pop the thawed slices in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, warm them in a buttered skillet over medium heat for a deliciously crispy finish.

Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls the night before, storing them in the fridge overnight for an easy next-morning breakfast!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to get creative and give your Hawaiian Roll French Toast a twist that tantalizes your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter, dairy-free version. Enjoy the same fluffy texture without the dairy!
Fruit Fusion: Top with fresh berries, banana slices, or sautéed apples for an added fruity vibe. The natural sweetness will elevate your breakfast treat beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Simply sprinkle them on top before serving to create a satisfying texture contrast.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in mini chocolate chips into the custard before soaking the rolls. Who wouldn’t love a chocolaty twist on this breakfast classic?
Cinnamon Roll Fusion: Swirl in some cinnamon sugar before cooking for a delightful cinnamon roll-inspired flavor. Each bite will be a warm, sweet hug!
Savory Twist: Try adding cooked bacon or sausage as a savory topping. The balance between sweet and salty is simply irresistible!
Tropical Paradise: Garnish with shredded coconut and pineapple for a taste of the islands. It’s a tropical breakfast that transports you straight to paradise!
Overnight Casserole: Prepare a baked version by layering soaked rolls in a baking dish, covered with custard and baked until golden for an easy feed-a-crowd option. Pair it with some Egg Cheese Toasts for a complete brunch spread!

Embrace the idea of customization to make every breakfast memorable with these variations!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Imagine a cozy breakfast table, invitingly set with delicious pairings to enhance your sweet morning delight and create lasting memories.

Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of crispy bacon creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the French toast, balancing flavors perfectly.
Fresh Fruit Medley: Sliced strawberries, bananas, and blueberries add a burst of freshness, enhancing the dish’s vibrancy while making it visually appealing.
Maple Syrup: A classic companion that adds an extra layer of sweetness, warm syrup drizzled generously over the French toast completes this delightful breakfast.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds an indulgent touch to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, making each bite feel like a special treat.
Chocolate Chips: Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a touch of decadence; they melt slightly with warmth, creating pockets of gooey sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the French toast and adds a protein boost.
Hot Chocolate or Coffee: Sip on a warm beverage like rich hot chocolate or steaming coffee to bring joy to your morning and elevate the experience.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top adds a delightful sparkle and enhances the warm spice flavors in every bite.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread works best for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! King’s Hawaiian rolls are the star of this dish, providing a sweet, soft texture that’s simply unbeatable. However, if you want to mix things up, you can also use other sweet and sturdy breads like challah or brioche. Both alternatives will offer a delightful flavor and fluffiness, ensuring that every bite is a treat!

How long can I store Hawaiian Roll French Toast in the fridge?
You can keep any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re well sealed to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a buttered skillet or an air fryer for that fresh-off-the-skillet taste!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Certainly! To freeze, first place the cooked French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes, or warm them in a buttered skillet until they’re heated through and crispy.

What should I do if my French toast turns out soggy?
Ah, the dreaded soggy French toast! This can happen if the bread is over-soaked. To prevent this, soak the rolls in the custard mixture for just 15-20 seconds per side—any longer and they may absorb too much liquid. If you find yourself with soggy French toast despite following the soaking time, try cooking them on a lower heat setting for a bit longer to achieve that golden-brown exterior while allowing the inside to firm up.

Can I use dairy alternatives in the recipe?
Very much so! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk can easily be substituted for regular milk in the custard mixture. Just choose an unsweetened variety if you want to control the sweetness of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy this treat, regardless of dietary preferences!

Are there any allergy concerns with this recipe?
Yes, always approach ingredients with care! The main allergens in Hawaiian Roll French Toast are dairy (from the milk and butter) and eggs. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, dairy-free alternatives and egg substitutes like flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) can be used. Always double-check labels on your ingredients to avoid any cross-contamination or hidden allergens.