Oh friends, have I got a treat for you today! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is, hands down, one of the most delicious breakfast creations I’ve ever sunk my teeth into. We’re talking sweet, pillowy clouds of cinnamon-sugar bliss that practically melt in your mouth. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, this dish is sure to impress with its unique flavor and delightful texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, anyone can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of Hawaiian rolls, cinnamon, and vanilla creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup—customize it to suit your taste!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, this recipe fits right in.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings, it’s great for sharing with friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delectable dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Toothpick or skewer
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet or griddle: Ensures even cooking and prevents the rolls from sticking.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix the custard without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly for a perfect custard consistency.

Ingredients
For this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, for cooking
- Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, maple syrup for serving
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined.
- Whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until incorporated.
Step 2: Soak the Rolls
- Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in.
- Working in batches, dip the rolls into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 30 seconds. Make sure to turn them to coat all sides but avoid soaking them too long to prevent sogginess.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
- Cook the soaked rolls for about 30–60 seconds per side until they are golden brown. Turn carefully with a spatula to ensure all sides are crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. Enjoy every delightful bite!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy breakfast at home, here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Berries
- Top your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- Pour warm maple syrup over the French toast to add sweetness and moisture. It pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavor.
Sprinkled with Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also creates an elegant appearance.
Served with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess. This makes every bite feel indulgent!
Accompanied by Sliced Bananas
- Fresh banana slices complement the sweetness of the rolls and add a delightful texture contrast.
Garnished with Mint Leaves
- For a refreshing touch, garnish your plate with fresh mint leaves. They provide a pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To achieve the best results with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, keep these tips in mind. These simple adjustments can enhance both taste and texture.
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Use Fresh Rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls will absorb the custard better, leading to fluffier French toast.
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Don’t Over-Soak: Only soak the rolls for about 30 seconds. Over-soaking can make them too soggy.
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Adjust Cinnamon: Feel free to increase or decrease the ground cinnamon based on your preference for spice.
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Cook on Low Heat: Cooking over medium-low heat helps ensure even cooking without burning the outside.
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Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different fruits or syrups for unique flavor combinations.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this sweet dish perfectly.
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Crispy Hash Browns: Golden-brown hash browns add a savory crunch that balances out the sweetness of the toast.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad provides freshness and acidity, making it an excellent contrast to the rich French toast.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit offers creaminess while adding nutritional value.
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Oven-Baked Sausages: Chicken or turkey sausages bring protein into the mix, making it a heartier breakfast option.
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Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds can add nutrition while being refreshing.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread provides healthy fats and complements the sweetness of the French toast.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs are a classic breakfast item that pairs well with sweet dishes like this one.
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Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed cinnamon apples make for an excellent warm side that mirrors the flavors in your French toast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
- Over-soaking the rolls: If you soak the rolls for too long, they can become soggy. Aim for about 30 seconds per side to keep them fluffy.
- Not using enough butter: Insufficient butter can lead to uneven cooking and sticking. Make sure to melt enough butter to coat your skillet properly.
- Skipping the holes: Poking holes in the rolls allows the custard to soak in better. Don’t skip this step for the best flavor and texture.
- Using low-quality eggs: Fresh, high-quality eggs can enhance the taste and texture of your French toast. Always opt for good eggs when possible.
- Ignoring serving suggestions: Serving with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or syrup enhances flavor. Don’t miss out on these delicious toppings.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a piece on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 30 seconds, checking if it needs more time.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a little butter, and warm each piece for about 1-2 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a sweet breakfast dish made from soft Hawaiian rolls soaked in an egg custard mixture, then cooked until golden brown. It’s perfect for brunch!
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes! While Hawaiian rolls add sweetness, you can substitute with brioche or challah for similar results.
How do I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
You can add spices like nutmeg or experiment with different toppings like whipped cream or chocolate sauce to make it your own.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls ahead of time; just store them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What are some serving suggestions?
Serve with powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup, or even whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Roll French Toast combines sweet flavors and soft textures that make it irresistible. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices. Give it a try at your next brunch gathering!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Indulge in the blissful delight of Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a breakfast creation that promises to transform your mornings. Soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls are soaked in a creamy custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla, then cooked to golden perfection. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also impressively versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings such as fresh fruits, powdered sugar, or rich maple syrup. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this delightful treat is bound to become a new favorite.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (12-pack) King's Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter for cooking
- Powdered sugar for serving
- Fresh fruit for serving
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt; mix until smooth.
- Poke several holes in each roll using a toothpick or skewer to allow for better absorption of the custard.
- Dip the rolls into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds per side; avoid soaking too long.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
- Cook the soaked rolls for 30–60 seconds per side until golden brown; use a spatula for careful flipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (75g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg