As I flipped through the pages of my favorite brunch cookbook, the idea of Hawaiian Roll French Toast leapt out at me like a warm hug on a chilly morning. The thought of soft, sweet, bite-sized pieces transformed into a rich breakfast delight was simply too good to resist. This recipe brilliantly combines the traditional elements of French toast with the distinctive fluffiness of King’s Hawaiian rolls, making it an approachable indulgence that will brighten any morning. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it invites a world of customization with toppings to please even the pickiest eater. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish is all about the joy of homemade comfort. What will you choose to top your creation with—decadent chocolate, fresh fruit, or perhaps a sprinkle of cinnamon? Let’s dive in!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast a must-try?

Indulgence and comfort unite in this recipe! The buttery, golden-brown texture combines the fluffiness of Hawaiian rolls with a classic French toast twist. Customization is key—choose your favorite toppings like Nutella, fresh berries, or whipped cream for a personal touch. Quick and easy to make, it’s perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends. Crowd-pleasing appeal means everyone will love this dish, making it an ideal choice for brunch gatherings. Treat yourself to this delightful breakfast wonder and explore the endless topping options for a truly unique experience!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

• A delicious journey begins with the right ingredients!

For the Batter

King’s Sweet Hawaiian Rolls – The star of this dish, providing unbeatable softness and sweetness.
Eggs – Serves as the binder for the custard; swap with flax eggs for a vegan twist.
Half and Half (or Milk) – Adds a creamy richness; almond milk works beautifully for dairy-free versions.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses a wonderful flavor; imitation vanilla is a great alternative if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the mix just right; consider brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
Ground Cinnamon – Gives warmth and tradition; try pumpkin spice for a seasonal flair.
Nutmeg – Lends a hint of earthiness; feel free to omit if you don’t have it on hand.

For Cooking

Butter – Essential for that crispy, flavorful outer layer; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

For Serving

Powdered Sugar (optional) – Perfect for a sweet finish; skip for a more understated presentation.

Dive into the deliciousness of Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these fantastic ingredients, and get ready to customize to your heart’s content!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare Rolls
Begin by separating the King’s Sweet Hawaiian Rolls into individual pieces or slice them horizontally for smaller, bite-sized portions. This step is essential for ensuring that each piece gets the perfect amount of custard coating. Set them aside on a clean cutting board while you prepare the batter, getting your space prepped for this delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 2: Mix Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Aim for a creamy texture with no lumps. This custard-like batter will bring richness to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, so make sure everything is evenly blended before proceeding to the cooking step.

Step 3: Heat Skillet
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat, allowing it to warm up gradually. It’s crucial to maintain a steady heat to avoid burning the French toast. This gentle cooking method helps achieve that golden-brown exterior while ensuring the fluffy insides are cooked perfectly through. Patience pays off when making Hawaiian Roll French Toast!

Step 4: Butter Skillet
Once the skillet is heated, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the pan evenly. The melted butter will not only add flavor but also help achieve a beautiful golden crust on your French toast. Keep an eye on the butter; it should foam but not brown too quickly, maintaining a lovely aroma.

Step 5: Dip Rolls
Take 4-6 pieces of the prepared Hawaiian rolls and gently dip them into the egg mixture, ensuring that all sides are coated without soaking them for too long. A quick dip is ideal to prevent sogginess. Let any excess batter drip off before placing the rolls into the skillet to ensure they cook evenly and remain fluffy inside.

Step 6: Cook Rolls
Carefully place the dipped rolls in the hot skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, watching for a golden-brown color to develop. Use a spatula to flip the pieces, making sure to rotate them to cook all sides evenly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, signaling that your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is nearly ready.

Step 7: Serve Warm
Once the French toast pieces are perfectly golden brown and cooked through, transfer them to a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and have your favorite toppings ready—think fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate for that extra indulgence. Serve immediately for the best experience, allowing everyone to customize their own stack of delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Avoid Sogginess: Dip the rolls quickly in the batter, ensuring they’re just coated. Prolonged soaking will result in a soggy texture.
Manage Heat: Cook over medium-low heat to prevent burning. This ensures the outsides get golden brown while the insides stay fluffy and tender.
Spice Up: Experiment with alternative spices like pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. This adds an exciting flavor variation to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Cook in Batches: If making for a crowd, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet; this helps maintain even cooking for all pieces.
Fresh is Best: Serve immediately after cooking for optimal taste and texture. The freshness makes all the difference in enjoying your Hawaiian Roll French Toast fully.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for busy mornings and can be prepped in advance to save you time! You can prepare the egg mixture and coat the rolls up to 24 hours ahead—simply whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and store it in the refrigerator. It’s also a great idea to slice the rolls beforehand to streamline the cooking process. When you’re ready to serve, just dip the prepped rolls into the mixture and cook them over medium-low heat until golden brown. This method ensures that your homemade breakfast remains just as delicious while giving you a head start in the kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh and ready to reheat.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore crispness, or place in an air fryer for a few minutes. Enjoy warm for the best results!
Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen pieces, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a quick breakfast treat.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Indulging in Hawaiian Roll French Toast opens the door to numerous delightful pairings, transforming your breakfast into a full-fledged feast.

Crispy Bacon: The savory saltiness of crispy bacon beautifully contrasts with the sweet French toast, creating a perfect balance. The smokey flavor enhances each bite!
Fresh Berries: A medley of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries adds vibrant color and a refreshing burst of tartness. They brighten the dish and create a refreshing balance.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream takes this dish to the next level, inviting a rich creaminess that harmonizes with the sweetness of the toast. It’s like a pillow of joy atop each bite!
Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup adds that classic sweet touch, making each bite an irresistible experience. The rich, buttery flavor complements the Hawaiian sweetness perfectly.
Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut for a tropical twist that enhances the Hawaiian aspect of this dish. It adds both a chewy texture and an exotic flair that’s hard to resist.
Caramelized Bananas: Sautéed until golden, caramelized bananas bring out their natural sweetness and add a luscious, gooey topping that pairs wonderfully with the soft toast.
Nutella: The indulgent, chocolate-hazelnut goodness of Nutella creates a decadent option that fans of rich flavors will appreciate! Spread it on for a dreamy, dessert-like breakfast.
Iced Coffee: Serve alongside a glass of chilled, homemade iced coffee for a refreshing caffeine boost that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the French toast.
Vanilla Yogurt: Adding a dollop of creamy vanilla yogurt brings a tangy twist, balancing the sweetness while providing a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Cinnamon Apples: Warm, sautéed cinnamon apples create a cozy, autumnal vibe and add a comforting warmth that complements the soft Hawaiian Roll French Toast perfectly.

Variations & Substitutions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make this delicious recipe your own!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk in place of half-and-half for a lighter, dairy-free version. It still provides that creamy texture, keeping your French toast delightful!
Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) for a completely vegan twist. This keeps the richness without any animal products!
Sweetener Swap: Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for deeper, more caramel-like sweetness. This simple swap enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Seasonal Spices: Try swapping out cinnamon and nutmeg for pumpkin spice, creating a cozy fall-inspired dish. This variation offers a warm and inviting aroma that fills your home.
Texture Twist: Use brioche or challah instead of Hawaiian rolls for a denser, eggier French toast. Each bite will bring its own unique satisfaction!
Topping Ideas: Go beyond basic toppings—add a layer of Nutella or peanut butter before stacking with fresh fruits or whipped cream. It creates a delightful mixture of flavors and textures.
Savory Option: Transform the dish into a savory delight by adding toppings like sautéed mushrooms and spinach with a sprinkle of feta. It’s an exciting and bold flavor shift!
Heat Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of spicy honey on top. This unexpected zing complements the sweetness perfectly.

These variations not only enhance the dish, but they also invite you to explore ways that make Hawaiian Roll French Toast uniquely yours! If you want to learn more about using sweet breads, check out our guide on selecting the best sweet bread for French toast. Each option can turn your breakfast into a mini celebration on the plate!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use?
For this recipe, I recommend using King’s Sweet Hawaiian Rolls for their unique softness and sweetness. If they aren’t available, look for other similar sweet rolls, like brioche or challah, to achieve that delightful texture.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place your Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain its flavor and texture. Reheating on a skillet will help bring back that fresh, golden-brown exterior we all love!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Of course! To freeze your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then cover them in aluminum foil. This method preserves flavor and prevents freezer burn. You can keep them frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet or air fryer to regain crispness.

What should I do if my French toast is soggy?
If you find your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is soggy, it might be due to soaking the rolls too long in the batter. To improve texture, dip the rolls quickly, allowing for a light coating, and ensure your skillet is preheated at medium-low heat—this ensures an evenly golden and fluffy result.

Are there any dietary substitutions for this recipe?
Very! For a dairy-free version, swap half-and-half for almond milk or coconut milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter. Additionally, if you’d like to make it vegan, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) can be used in place of regular eggs. Just whisk it up and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the batter!