Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

There’s just something magical about Hawaiian Roll French Toast — imagine plump, golden rolls with a hint of tropical sweetness, all gently soaked in vanilla custard and crisped to perfection. It’s breakfast bliss that comes together in minutes, and I have a feeling it’ll steal your heart (and your family’s) after just one bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, but each ingredient plays a starring role in creating that irresistible Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience! Here’s what you’ll need and a few tips for making it absolutely perfect.

• 1 (12-pack) Kings Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: These soft, subtly sweet rolls are the heart of the dish—don’t substitute, trust me!
• 3 large eggs: The foundation of your rich, custardy base for soaking the rolls.
• ¾ cup half and half (or whole milk): Adds creamy luxury to every bite—use half and half for extra decadence.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: For deep, bakery-style flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives warmth and a hint of spice that pairs beautifully with the sweet bread.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: For a caramel-like note that takes the custard over the top.
• 1 small pinch salt: Don’t skip it! Salt balances the sweetness and brings everything to life.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Melted in the skillet for that golden, crispy finish—both salted and unsalted work fine.
• Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and syrup: To finish with a flourish; choose your favorites for toppings!

Variations

One of the best things about making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is how easy it is to adapt! Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or in the mood for something new, here are a few ways to make this recipe your own.

• Coconut Dream: Swap half the milk for canned coconut milk and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips inside the rolls just before dipping them—utter indulgence!
• Savory Twist: Skip the brown sugar and cinnamon, add a pinch of black pepper, and serve with crispy bacon or smoky ham for a sweet-savory combo.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use your favorite gluten-free sweet rolls and follow the same instructions—still delicious and totally satisfying.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

Start by cracking your eggs into a large mixing bowl and add the half and half (or whole milk). Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth—no streaks of egg white remaining. This ensures your Hawaiian Roll French Toast will have a wonderfully even, silky soak throughout.

Step 2: Flavor the Custard

Whisk in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined—this step infuses your custard with flavor and warmth, giving each roll that irresistible scent as it cooks.

Step 3: Prep & Soak the Rolls

Take a toothpick or skewer and poke several holes in the bottom of each Hawaiian roll. This clever trick helps the custard soak into the center without making the exterior soggy. Dip a few rolls at a time into the custard and let them soak for about 30 seconds—any more and they might fall apart!

Step 4: Cook the Rolls

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and melt two tablespoons of butter. Place four soaked rolls in the pan at a time, turning each roll every 30 seconds or so, until all sides (including the top and bottom) are beautifully golden brown. The secret is gentle heat to let the centers cook through without burning the outside.

Step 5: Serve & Savor

Once your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is perfectly golden, move to a serving plate. Give them a generous dusting of powdered sugar, pile on fresh berries or fruit, and drizzle with syrup. Serve immediately while they’re warm and dreamy!

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Garnishes

A big flourish of powdered sugar is classic, but don’t stop there! Pile your Hawaiian Roll French Toast high with mixed berries, sliced bananas, or even a spoonful of whipped cream. Fresh fruit brings brightness, and a drizzle of maple syrup adds pure morning happiness.

Side Dishes

For the perfect brunch plate, serve these alongside crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage—the salty-sweet combo never fails. I also love adding a simple fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a cool, creamy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Hawaiian Roll French Toast into finger-friendly bites by threading onto skewers (great for brunch buffets!) or stack them tower-style for an impressive centerpiece. Feeling decadent? Serve in mini cast iron skillets or drizzle with chocolate sauce for an unforgettable brunch dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply cool the French toast to room temperature, then pop it into an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, making breakfast a breeze all week long.

Freezing

To freeze, lay cooled Hawaiian Roll French Toast in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—a secret stash for surprise guests or busy mornings!

Reheating

Warm refrigerated or frozen rolls in the oven at 325°F for about 8–10 minutes, or pop them in the air fryer for irresistible crispness. In a hurry? A quick zap in the microwave works too, but the oven keeps that lovely exterior crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Hawaiian Roll French Toast a special place in your breakfast (or brunch!) lineup. There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of that sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen—and the moment you bite into those golden, tender rolls, you’ll see why I can’t resist making them “just because.” Happy cooking, and enjoy every fluffy bite!

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