Some mornings call for something soft, sweet, and a little comforting, and that’s when I reach for this Hawaiian Roll French Toast. I love how these rolls turn golden on the outside while staying pillowy and rich inside.
This dish feels like a cross between classic French toast and a bakery-style breakfast treat. I usually make it for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or anytime I want breakfast to feel extra special.
What I enjoy most is how effortless it is, yet it looks and tastes like you spent a lot of time on it. If you enjoy warm, sweet breakfasts that bring everyone to the table, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep.
Quick Recipe Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | Approx. 360 per serving |
| Protein | About 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | About 42 grams |
| Fat | About 16 grams |
| Gluten-Free | No |
| Vegan | No |
| Vegetarian | Yes |
| Kid-Friendly | Yes |
| Best Served | Breakfast or Brunch |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast has an ultra-soft center with a lightly crisp, golden outside. The texture feels rich and bakery-style without being heavy.
The natural sweetness of Hawaiian rolls means you don’t need a lot of added sugar. Every bite tastes balanced, warm, and comforting.
It’s simple enough for everyday mornings but special enough for guests. I love how it instantly makes breakfast feel exciting.
This recipe is easy to customize with different toppings and flavors. You can keep it classic or dress it up however you like.
Ingredients to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich, custardy French toast. Each ingredient adds flavor, softness, or structure to the dish.
Hawaiian rolls – 12 rolls
These rolls are soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for soaking up the custard. They create a fluffy inside while holding their shape during cooking.
Large eggs – 4
Eggs form the base of the custard and help bind everything together. They also add richness and protein to the dish.
Whole milk – 1 cup
Milk thins the egg mixture and makes the custard smooth. Whole milk gives the best creamy texture, but other milk works too.
Heavy cream – ¼ cup
This adds extra richness and a custard-like finish. It makes the French toast taste indulgent and soft.
Granulated sugar – 2 tablespoons
Sugar lightly sweetens the custard without overpowering the rolls. It enhances the natural sweetness already present.
Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor. It gives the French toast a bakery-style aroma.
Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon brings warmth and subtle spice. It pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the rolls.
Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors. Even a small amount makes a big difference.
Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons
Butter is used for cooking and adds rich flavor. It also helps create a golden, crispy exterior.
Steps to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
This recipe comes together easily with a few simple steps. Taking your time with each step ensures the best texture and flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the custard mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth and well combined. Add the milk and heavy cream, then whisk again until fully blended.
Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until the custard looks smooth and smells fragrant.
Step 2: Slice the Hawaiian rolls
Using a sharp knife, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Keep them even so they soak consistently.
Handle the rolls gently since they are very soft. This helps them stay intact during soaking and cooking.
Step 3: Soak the rolls
Place the sliced rolls in a shallow dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over them.
Let the rolls soak for about 30 seconds on each side. They should absorb the mixture without becoming soggy.
Step 4: Heat the skillet
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely.
Spread the butter evenly across the surface. This prevents sticking and adds flavor.
Step 5: Cook the French toast
Place the soaked rolls onto the hot skillet with space between each piece. Cook until the bottoms turn golden brown.
Flip carefully and cook the other side until evenly browned. The rolls should feel set but still soft inside.
Step 6: Finish cooking
Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate. Keep it warm while cooking the remaining rolls.
Add more butter to the skillet as needed between batches. This ensures every piece cooks evenly and tastes rich.
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Roll French Toast tastes best when served warm and fresh from the skillet. The soft interior and golden edges really shine when it hasn’t cooled too much.
Classic maple syrup is always a great choice for serving. It seeps into the rolls and enhances their natural sweetness.
Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas add brightness. They balance the richness of the custard with a fresh bite.
A light dusting of powdered sugar makes this dish look bakery-worthy. It also adds a gentle sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
Whipped cream is perfect if you want something extra indulgent. It melts slightly on the warm French toast and feels luxurious.
You can also serve it with savory sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. The sweet and savory contrast works beautifully.
For brunch, pair it with scrambled eggs or an omelet. This creates a complete and satisfying meal.
Kids love this dish with chocolate chips or sprinkles on top. It instantly turns breakfast into something fun and exciting.
Meal Prep Tips: Can We Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast in Advance?
Yes, Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be prepared ahead with a little planning. This makes mornings much easier and stress-free.
You can prepare the custard mixture the night before. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.
The rolls can also be sliced in advance and kept in an airtight container. This saves time during busy mornings.
If you want to cook it ahead, prepare the French toast fully and let it cool. Store it in a single layer to prevent sticking.
Place parchment paper between layers if stacking is necessary. This helps maintain texture and shape.
Reheat gently before serving to keep the rolls soft. Avoid overheating, as it can dry them out.
Meal prepping works especially well for brunch gatherings. You can focus on toppings and presentation instead of cooking.
This recipe holds up well, making it ideal for planned breakfasts. A little preparation goes a long way.
Cooking Tips
Use medium heat when cooking the French toast. High heat can burn the outside before the inside warms through.
Make sure the skillet is evenly buttered before adding the rolls. This ensures even browning and prevents sticking.
Do not oversoak the rolls in the custard. Too much liquid can make them fall apart.
Flip the rolls gently using a wide spatula. Hawaiian rolls are soft and need careful handling.
Cook in batches instead of overcrowding the skillet. This allows proper browning on each piece.
If the rolls brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Slower cooking helps achieve the perfect texture.
Always taste-test one piece before serving. This helps you adjust sweetness or doneness if needed.
Patience makes a big difference with this recipe. Let the rolls cook fully for the best results.
Variations of Hawaiian Roll French Toast
You can easily customize this recipe to suit different tastes. Small changes create exciting new flavors.
For a cinnamon sugar version, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on the rolls while cooking. It caramelizes beautifully.
Add orange zest to the custard for a citrusy twist. This adds freshness and aroma.
Stuff the rolls with cream cheese before soaking for a rich variation. It turns the dish into a stuffed French toast.
Chocolate lovers can add chocolate chips to the custard or sprinkle them on top. They melt slightly and taste amazing.
Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall-inspired version. It pairs well with the sweetness of the rolls.
Coconut milk can replace regular milk for a tropical feel. This enhances the Hawaiian-style flavor.
You can also make a baked version for serving a crowd. Arrange soaked rolls in a baking dish and bake until golden.
Storage Instructions
Allow the French toast to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
Place leftovers in an airtight container. Proper sealing helps maintain freshness.
Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The texture remains soft when reheated correctly.
For longer storage, freeze the French toast in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to freezer-safe bags.
Use parchment paper between pieces when freezing. This prevents them from sticking together.
Label the container with the date for easy tracking. This helps maintain quality and safety.
Avoid storing with toppings like syrup or fruit. Add those fresh when serving.
Proper storage ensures the dish tastes just as good later. A little care makes a big difference.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, but Hawaiian rolls give the best texture and sweetness. Other breads will change the final result.
Do I need heavy cream for this recipe?
No, but it adds richness and softness. You can replace it with more milk if needed.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter. The flavor will still be great.
Is this recipe too sweet?
No, the sweetness is balanced and mild. You can adjust sugar based on preference.
Can I add toppings while cooking?
It’s better to add toppings after cooking. This prevents burning and uneven cooking.
Does this recipe work for brunch parties?
Yes, it’s perfect for serving guests. It looks impressive and is easy to scale up.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, kids can help whisk the custard and add toppings. Always supervise cooking steps.
Why are my rolls soggy?
They may have soaked too long. Reduce soaking time for better texture.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a comforting and satisfying breakfast that feels extra special. The soft rolls and rich custard create a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
This recipe is easy enough for everyday mornings and elegant enough for brunch. I love how versatile and customizable it is.
With simple ingredients and gentle cooking, anyone can make this dish successfully. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and joy to the table.
Once you try it, this French toast will quickly become a favorite. It’s the kind of breakfast people always ask for again.
