Hawaiian Roll French Toast – A Sweet and Fluffy Breakfast Treat

Oh friends, have I got a treat for you today! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is, hands down, one of the most delicious breakfast creations I’ve ever sunk my teeth into. We’re talking sweet, pillowy clouds of cinnamon-sugar bliss that practically melt in your mouth. These golden-brown bites are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and absolutely irresistible.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast that feels fancy but takes only 15 minutes to make, this is it. Whether you’re serving it up for a special brunch, a lazy weekend morning, or even as a dessert, this recipe is a winner.

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out my Classic French Toast Recipe or take your morning to the next level with a French Omelette with Fines Herbes.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes
• Perfect for Brunch – Impresses guests with minimal effort
• Kid-Friendly – Sweet, soft, and fun to eat
• Versatile – Customize with toppings like fresh fruit, syrup, or even whipped cream

Taste & Texture

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful mix of crispy edges and soft, fluffy centers. The slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls soak up the cinnamon-vanilla custard beautifully, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Dietary Attributes

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be easily modified for dairy-free diets by using almond milk and plant-based butter.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Rolls
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup half and half or whole milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
• Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and maple syrup (for serving)

Notes on Quality

• Hawaiian rolls: These rolls add a subtle sweetness and a soft, fluffy texture that works perfectly for French toast
• Dairy: Half and half creates a richer custard, but whole milk works well too
• Vanilla & cinnamon: Use pure vanilla extract and freshly ground cinnamon for the best flavor

Possible Substitutions

• Milk Alternatives: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version
• Sweetener Swap: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey
• Gluten-Free: Try gluten-free brioche-style rolls if you need a GF option

Step-by-Step Instructions

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined
• Whisk in the vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until fully incorporated
• Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in
• Working in batches, dip the rolls into the custard mixture and let soak for 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides (do not soak too long or they’ll get soggy)
• Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat
• Cook the soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown, turning carefully with a spatula to crisp all sides

• Serve warm with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and maple syrup

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Don’t Over-Soak – Hawaiian rolls absorb liquid quickly, so 30 seconds is plenty
• Use Medium-Low Heat – This allows the inside to cook without burning the outside
• Get All Sides Crispy – Turning the rolls to brown all sides makes them extra delicious

Common Mistakes

• Too Much Soaking Time – This will make them soggy and fall apart
• High Heat – This can burn the outside before the inside is fully cooked
• Skipping the Butter – Butter helps achieve that crispy, golden-brown finish

Time-Saving Tips

• Make the custard ahead of time – Store it in the fridge overnight for a quicker morning prep
• Use a griddle – Cook multiple rolls at once to save time

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

These little bites are fantastic on their own, but if you want a full breakfast spread, serve them with French Omelette with Fines Herbes and crispy bacon.

Presentation Ideas

Dust with powdered sugar, add a handful of fresh berries, and drizzle warm maple syrup over the top. For a more decadent version, serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Beverage Pairings

• Coffee or Espresso – A bold, dark roast balances the sweetness
• Fresh Orange Juice – The acidity cuts through the richness
• Vanilla Latte – Complements the warm cinnamon-vanilla flavors

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Flash freeze on a baking sheet, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months

Reheating Methods

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for the best texture
• Air Fryer: Heat at 325°F for 3-4 minutes
• Microwave: Works in a pinch, but the rolls may lose their crispiness

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Brioche or challah are excellent alternatives, but Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the custard and soak the rolls ahead of time, but cook them fresh for the best results.

Troubleshooting

Why is my French toast soggy?
Over-soaking the rolls can cause this. Try dipping them for a shorter time and cooking on medium-low heat to ensure they cook through.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and plant-based butter
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute

Flavor Twists

• Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the custard mix
• Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pecans or almonds
• Caramelized Banana Topping: Sauté sliced bananas with butter and brown sugar for an indulgent topping

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• Pumpkin Spice: Add ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice to the custard for a fall twist
• Eggnog French Toast: Swap half and half for eggnog during the holidays

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fun and indulgent breakfast, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a must-try. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your home. Try it out and let me know how it turns out in the comments.

Looking for more amazing breakfast ideas? Check out these Heart-Shaped Grilled Cheese Sandwiches for a fun lunch idea or browse more delicious recipes on my Pinterest page.

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