As I flipped through the pages of my favorite cookbook, a delightful aroma wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to the sun-soaked shores of Hawaii. That’s when the idea hit me: why not transform those sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls into a dreamy breakfast treat? Enter my Hawaiian Roll French Toast—a blissful fusion of buttery sweetness and comforting nostalgia. This easy French toast recipe is perfect for lazy weekend mornings or lively brunch gatherings, and it promises a crowd-pleasing experience that leaves everyone craving more. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll create a spectacular dish that will elevate your breakfast game. Are you ready to savor the sweet side of mornings with this irresistible twist on a classic?

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast a Must-Try?

Fluffy Delight: This Hawaiian Roll French Toast boasts a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that perfectly complements its sweet flavor.

Easy Preparation: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish can be whipped up quickly—ideal for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.

Versatile Options: It’s fabulous as is, but feel free to ramp up the flavors with toppings like fresh berries or whipped cream, or even create a stuffed version using cream cheese!

Weekend Brunch Showstopper: Whether it’s a casual family breakfast or a fancy brunch gathering, this dish is sure to impress—guaranteeing smiles all around.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the custard and soak the rolls the night before, so you can savor your mornings instead of spending too much time in the kitchen.

Combine this with a refreshing Spring Roll Salad or a warm bowl of French Onion Soup to create a delightful brunch spread!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the Custard

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – The star of this dish, providing sweetness and a fluffy texture; slightly stale rolls work best for soaking.
Eggs – They create the rich custard base that binds everything together.
Milk – Adds moisture; whole milk is recommended for an extra creamy result.
Heavy Cream – Enhances richness and creates a velvety custard.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard; adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor that elevates the custard’s profile.
Ground Cinnamon – Offers warmth and spice; feel free to swap it for nutmeg or cardamom if desired.
Ground Nutmeg – Brings a warm, nutty flavor to the mix; can be omitted if you prefer.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.

For Frying

Butter – The key to achieving a gorgeous golden crust while keeping the inside soft; use as needed during cooking.

Combine these ingredients for a delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast that will make your mornings feel extra special!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Custard Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, ½ cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. This custard mixture should be creamy with a light yellow hue. Set aside for now while you prepare the rolls.

Step 2: Soaking Rolls
Gently separate the Hawaiian sweet rolls and dip each one into the custard mixture. Soak for about 15-20 seconds on each side; avoid letting them fall apart. You’ll want each roll to be thoroughly coated, but not overly soggy. Place the soaked rolls on a plate, allowing any excess custard to drip off as you prepare to cook them.

Step 3: Cooking French Toast
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, carefully add the soaked Hawaiian rolls to the pan. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. Ensure to keep an eye on the rolls to avoid burning; the ideal result is a beautiful golden crust.

Step 4: Serving
Remove the crispy Hawaiian Roll French Toast from the skillet and place them on a warm plate. Serve immediately, drizzled with maple syrup for a delightful finish. You may also choose to garnish with powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream to create a beautiful presentation that will impress your family and friends!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Pairing your delightful morning French toast with the right sides can create a breakfast experience that feels like a mini celebration.

Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the French toast, providing a perfect balance to your dish. Think of the harmony as the smoky, savory notes dance alongside the fluffy sweetness!
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a mix of berries, melons, and citrus brings brightness, showcasing a burst of color and flavor that complements the creamy, rich French toast.
Honey Butter Spread: A dollop of honey butter adds an extra layer of sweet buttery goodness, enhancing each bite and leaving your taste buds tingling with joy.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic, but so essential! Pure maple syrup cascades over the warm French toast, infusing each slice with warmth, sweetness, and a touch of nature’s charm.
Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy, a generous spoonful of whipped cream creates a luscious and indulgent texture that feels like a hug for your taste buds.
Chai-Spiced Cream Cheese: Spread a little of this flavorful cream cheese on the French toast for a warm spice kick that perfectly complements the sweet base.
Iced Coffee or Cold Brew: Sip on a refreshing iced coffee to wash down the sweetness. The rich and bold flavors create the ideal pairing for your indulgent French toast.
Coconut Flavored Yogurt: A scoop of coconut yogurt adds a creamy texture with a tropical twist, tying back to the Hawaiian theme and providing a refreshing balance.

Each of these complementary delights will elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to a brunch affair everyone will remember!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly cooked Hawaiian Roll French Toast immediately for the best taste and texture. If left out, it can last up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster for a quick breakfast.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, place the slices in a toaster or an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the delight of Hawaiian Roll French Toast any morning!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to match your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut cream for a deliciously dairy-free version.
Try using a rich coconut cream for added flavor, making each bite feel like a tropical escape.
Stuffed Delight: Add a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between the rolls before soaking for delightful stuffed French toast.
This gives a luscious, gooey texture that perfectly complements the fluffy exterior.
Cinnamon Swirl: Increase the cinnamon in the custard or sprinkle some on top before serving for a warm, aromatic boost.
The extra spice adds a cozy touch that’s perfect for chilly mornings!
Baked Casserole: Transform this dish into a baked casserole by arranging soaked rolls in a dish, topping with cinnamon sugar, and baking until golden.
This makes for an easy feed-a-crowd option that smells heavenly while baking!
Savory Flavor: Add crumbled bacon or ham between the rolls for a sweet-savory twist that’s sure to please everyone.
The contrast between the sweet and salty layers brings an exciting flavor profile that will leave guests asking for more.
Tropical Toppings: Top with fresh pineapple or coconut flakes for an added tropical flair that enhances the Hawaiian experience.
These fruits introduce a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the custard beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in some mini chocolate chips into the custard or sprinkle on top before serving for extra indulgence.
Chocolate combined with the sweet rolls creates a decadent treat that will be loved by both kids and adults alike.

Pair this delightful dish with a refreshing Spring Roll Salad to complete your brunch experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, then dip each roll, allowing them to absorb the custard without becoming too soggy. Once soaked, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat some butter in a skillet and cook the soaked rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious, ready-to-cook Hawaiian Roll French Toast for a quick and enjoyable breakfast!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Soggy Avoidance: Lightly soak the rolls for 15-20 seconds—too much time can lead to a soggy texture, spoiling your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Perfect Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the rolls. A medium heat creates a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside fluffy.
Batch Cooking: If you make a large batch, keep prepared French toast warm in an oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F) until ready to serve.
Make-Ahead Magic: Preparing the custard and soaking the rolls the night before saves time in the morning. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat!
Topping Choices: Experiment with flavors! Add nutmeg or even maple extract in the custard for a unique twist on your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Garnishing Tips: Don’t shy away from garnishes—powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your dish’s presentation and flavor.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use slightly stale Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. The slight dryness helps them soak up the custard without turning too soggy, creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture you’re looking for.

How should I store leftovers of Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
You can store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in the container to maintain their texture.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the slices in a toaster or an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

What can I do if my French toast turns out soggy?
Soggy French toast can usually be avoided by lightly soaking the rolls for about 15-20 seconds per side. If you find your custard is too wet, you can always add a bit more milk or a few less eggs to achieve the right consistency. If it does happen, a quick turn in a hot skillet can help crisp them up a bit!

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast suitable for my gluten-sensitive family member?
If you have gluten-sensitive family members, you can easily adapt this dish by using gluten-free bread or sweet rolls. Just ensure all other ingredients, like the milk and butter, are also gluten-free. It’s a great way to keep breakfast delicious and inclusive for everyone!

Can I prepare the custard and soak the rolls in advance?
Very much so! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls the night before. Place them in the fridge overnight, then simply cook them fresh in the morning. This way, you’ll save time and enjoy warm, delectable Hawaiian Roll French Toast even on those busy mornings!