If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast treat that feels like a warm hug first thing in the morning, then the Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine bite-sized, sweet Hawaiian rolls transformed into tender, golden French toast that’s bursting with flavor, from the subtle vanilla and cinnamon in the egg soak to the ooey-gooey buttered finish. This recipe takes ordinary French toast to a magically fluffy and fruity level that’s perfect for lazy weekends, brunch gatherings, or any time you just want to indulge in something utterly delightful and easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays a starring role in building the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and warmth in your French toast. Whether it’s the cinnamon adding spice, the vanilla giving aroma, or the Hawaiian rolls providing that soft, sweet base, every item is essential and easy to find.
- Hawaiian sweet rolls (12): The foundation of this dish, their natural sweetness and fluffy texture make every bite irresistible.
- Large eggs (4): Eggs are the magic that binds and create that custardy soak that’s crucial for French toast.
- Milk (1 cup): Whole milk is ideal for creaminess, but any milk you prefer works beautifully.
- Sugar (1 tablespoon): Just enough to add a touch of sweetness to the batter without overpowering.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a lovely depth and warm aroma that complements the Hawaiian rolls perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch of spice that brings cozy comfort and enhances the flavor.
- Salt (a pinch): Balances the sweetness and enriches the overall flavor.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): For cooking, adding a golden crisp and rich flavor to the toast.
- Maple syrup: The classic topping that elevates every piece to breakfast perfection.
- Powdered sugar: A delicate dusting for a pretty, sweet finish.
- Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or your favorites — fresh fruit adds brightness and color.
- Whipped cream: For a light, creamy topping that’s pure indulgence.
- Nutella or chocolate sauce: For a luscious, chocolatey twist on your toppings.
How to Make Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Your Custard Mixture
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and whisking together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. This custard mixture is where the magic in your Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe begins, blending sweet and spice to soak into the rolls for ultimate flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Take those fluffy Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally, just like you would a sandwich bun. This slice makes them perfect for soaking up the egg custard and getting that wonderful golden crunch when cooked.
Step 3: Dip the Rolls
Heat your skillet or griddle to medium and melt about a tablespoon of butter. One by one, dip each halved roll into the custard mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side — don’t rush this part, it’s what makes them so soft inside. Let the excess drip off before placing them on the hot buttered surface.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Cook each dipped roll for 2 to 3 minutes per side in the skillet until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Keep adding butter as needed, and watch the delightful sizzle as these little French toasts come to life.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Hawaiian Rolls French Toast warm, and get ready to pile on your favorite toppings like maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, and fluffy whipped cream. Or go wild with Nutella or chocolate sauce for a decadent finish.
How to Serve Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Presentation is everything, especially with such a charming recipe. Fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar add vibrant color and a touch of natural sweetness, while a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of Nutella brings that dreamlike, dessert-for-breakfast feel.
Side Dishes
Pair your Hawaiian Rolls French Toast with crisp breakfast bacon or a side of fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal that covers the sweet and savory spectrum. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a cup of strong coffee complements the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the toast halves in a playful tower or arranging them in a circular pattern on your serving plate, then drizzle your toppings artfully. If you’re entertaining, serve with mini bowls of various toppings so everyone can customize their own – it makes the meal interactive and extra fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers from this Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them sealed helps retain moisture and flavor.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Once cooled completely, layer the French toast pieces between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to one month, making it easy to enjoy this delicious breakfast any time.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the rolls in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can; reheating slowly keeps the toast crisp on the outside and soft inside.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls give this recipe its signature sweetness and fluff, you can use thick-cut brioche or challah as great alternatives that soak up the custard and fry up nicely.
What milk alternatives work best for this recipe?
You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk you prefer. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will remain delightful.
Can I prepare the egg mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the custard up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before using to ensure everything is well combined.
How do I avoid soggy French toast?
Make sure to let the rolls soak only for a few seconds on each side without over-saturating, and cook over medium heat to allow them to crisp up evenly on the outside while staying tender inside.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! Kids love the sweet, soft Hawaiian rolls, and the fun toppings make it an exciting meal for all ages. Plus, it’s easy for little hands to hold and enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation. It’s simple to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for both special occasions and everyday indulgence. So go ahead — whip up a batch, invite your loved ones around the table, and soak in the blissful taste of this sweet, cozy comfort food. You’ll be smiling from the first bite to the last!
Print
Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the sweet, fluffy goodness of Hawaiian Rolls French Toast—a perfect twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Soft Hawaiian sweet rolls are dipped in a cinnamon-vanilla egg custard, pan-fried to golden perfection, and served warm with a variety of delicious toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, and whipped cream. This easy-to-make recipe yields a delightful brunch treat that brings a tropical flair to your morning table.
Ingredients
French Toast Base
- 1 package (12 rolls) Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or any preferred milk)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
For Cooking and Serving
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Maple syrup (to taste)
- Powdered sugar (to taste)
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc., for garnish)
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Nutella or chocolate sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Slice the rolls: Cut each Hawaiian sweet roll in half horizontally, creating bun-like halves that will serve as your French toast slices.
- Heat the skillet: Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add about 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and coat the pan evenly.
- Dip and soak the rolls: Dip each halved roll into the prepared egg mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side to absorb the custard, then allow excess to drip off.
- Cook the French toast: Place the soaked roll halves onto the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and the inside is cooked through. Add additional butter to the skillet as needed to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the warm Hawaiian Rolls French Toast topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, and optional Nutella or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Using Hawaiian sweet rolls adds a unique tropical sweetness that complements the cinnamon and vanilla flavors perfectly.
- Ensure the skillet is properly heated to medium to avoid burning the outside before the inside cooks through.
- You can substitute whole milk with any preferred milk, including almond or oat milk, for dietary preferences.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and vegan butter.
- To keep the French toast warm while cooking batches, place finished pieces on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F/95°C).
