There’s a delightful charm about transforming simple ingredients into a breakfast masterpiece, and that’s exactly what happens with this Heavenly Hawaiian Roll French Toast. The moment you soak those fluffy King’s Hawaiian rolls in a rich cinnamon-sugar custard, the kitchen is filled with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table. It’s the kind of dish that brings joy to lazy weekend mornings or festive brunches, marrying the classic nostalgia of French toast with the unique sweetness of Hawaiian rolls.

Picture this: golden-brown, crispy edges enveloping a soft, custardy center—each bite a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this French toast is not just quick and easy to whip up, but it guarantees smiles all around. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that will surely elevate your breakfast game!

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Simplicity makes this recipe a breeze—perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike! Delightful aroma fills your kitchen as the cinnamon-sugar custard does its magic. Unique twist on traditional French toast, bringing in the moistness of King’s Hawaiian rolls. Crowd-pleaser at brunch gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves with a smile. Versatile toppings! Whether you prefer fresh fruit or whipped cream, the possibilities are endless. For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our easy and nutritious breakfast recipes!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the ultimate breakfast marvel, gather these ingredients!

For the Custard Mixture

King’s Hawaiian Rolls – The star of the show, offering delightful softness and sweetness. Any sweet roll can be used in place of Hawaiian rolls, but texture may vary.
Large Eggs – Key for creating the rich custard that envelopes the rolls. Egg replacer can be used for a vegan version.
Half and Half or Whole Milk – Adds a creamy richness to the custard. Milk alternatives like almond or oat milk can also work well.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic flavor. Substituting with maple extract gives it a unique twist if desired.
Ground Cinnamon – The spice that adds warmth and sweetness. Feel free to increase the amount for an extra cinnamon kick.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the custard beautifully, adding depth to the flavor. White sugar can be used in a pinch, though it won’t have the same depth.
Pinch of Salt – Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness. Do not skip; even a small amount makes a remarkable difference.

For Cooking

Butter – Essential for cooking, imparting flavor and preventing sticking. Use clarified butter for a higher smoke point if preferred.

For Serving

Powdered Sugar – A dusting adds a lovely visual appeal and extra sweetness. Optional, depending on your sweetness preference.
Fresh Fruit – Enhances the dish’s flavor and makes for a beautiful presentation. Seasonal fruits offer variety and freshness.
Maple Syrup – A classic accompaniment that complements the sweetness. Honey or agave syrup can stand in for a different flavor profile.

Now that you’re equipped with these ingredients, you’re just a whisk and a skillet away from breakfast bliss!

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Whisk together eggs and half and half in a large bowl until fully mixed, creating a rich custard base. This should take about a minute of vigorous whisking for a smooth texture.
Incorporate vanilla, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt into the egg mixture, whisking until everything is well blended. Let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen!
Poke holes in the bottom of each King’s Hawaiian roll using a fork, allowing the custard to soak in beautifully. This step ensures maximum flavor absorption.
Dip rolls into the custard mixture for no more than 30 seconds, being careful to turn them for even soaking. You want them to absorb the custard without becoming overly soggy.
Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Ensure the butter coats the pan, preventing those sweet rolls from sticking.
Cook soaked rolls for 30-60 seconds per side, turning them carefully with a spatula until they attain a gorgeous golden-brown color. This creates a delectable crust while keeping the inside soft.
Serve warm! Dust the finished French toast with powdered sugar and crown it with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup for an inviting presentation.

Optional: Garnish with whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Leftovers can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If not eaten immediately, store them in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store any unused Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing.
Freezer: Freeze leftover portions in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Microwave if you need a quicker option, but the texture won’t be as delightful.

Make Ahead Options

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator. This not only maximizes flavor but also saves valuable time during busy mornings. When you’re ready to serve, simply melt some butter in a nonstick skillet and cook the soaked rolls for about 30-60 seconds per side until they turn golden brown. Remember to keep the soak time brief, as longer soaking can lead to overly soggy rolls. With these simple make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy delicious French toast without the morning rush!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Create a memorable breakfast experience by pairing these delightful accompaniments with your French toast.

Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet French toast, offering a balanced flavor profile that everyone loves.
Fresh Berries: Seasonal berries not only add a pop of color but their tartness complements the sweet custard, elevating each bite into a refreshing delight.
Maple Syrup: A classic choice, rich maple syrup enhances the sweetness of the dish, making it a scrumptious addition that drizzles over the fluffy rolls beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds an indulgent touch. You can infuse it with vanilla for extra flavor heaven!
Breakfast Sausage: Pairing sweet with savory, breakfast sausage offers a satisfying balance to the dish, ensuring a hearty start to the day.
Custard Topping: If you want to up the ante, drizzle some leftover custard over the top just before serving for an extra creamy experience.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can perfectly round out the meal, creating a cozy atmosphere for your breakfast table.
Dutch Apple Muffins: These muffins bring a delightful texture and fruity burst to your meal, making for a diversified plate that everyone can enjoy.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

There’s always room to add your personal flair to this delicious dish—let your creativity shine!

Dairy-Free: Substitute half and half with almond or oat milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.
Fruit-Infused: Mix in mashed bananas or pureed strawberries into the custard for a fruity twist that adds a natural sweetness.
Nutty Delight: Fold in crushed pecans or walnuts into the custard for added crunch and richness, balancing the soft rolls beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Toss in chocolate chips to the custard for a decadent dessert twist that chocolate enthusiasts will adore.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of orange zest to the custard for a fragrant flavor boost that dances on your palate.
Savory Touch: Incorporate a bit of crumbled feta or goat cheese between the rolls for a sweet and savory combination that surprises and delights.
Luxury Topping: Top with crème fraîche instead of whipped cream for a rich, tangy finish that complements the sweet flavors stunningly.
Individual Portions: Cut the rolls into individual pieces before soaking for bite-sized servings, making them perfect for brunch finger foods!

Helpful Tricks for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Soak Time: Keep it brief: Soak each roll for no more than 30 seconds to avoid sogginess, ensuring the perfect custardy center.
Cooking Temperature: Go low and slow: Use medium-low heat for even cooking, allowing a golden-brown crust to form without burning.
Perfect Custard: Whisk well: Ensure eggs and half and half are fully combined for a smooth custard, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Butter Usage: Don’t skimp: Use enough butter in the pan to prevent sticking, enhancing flavor and ensuring a beautiful sear on the rolls.
Serving Style: Get creative: Top with seasonal fresh fruit and a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast presentation.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using King’s Hawaiian rolls for their unique sweetness and soft texture. However, any sweet roll will work. Just keep in mind that using different rolls might slightly change the texture of your French toast.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Once cooled to room temperature, simply cover and refrigerate. They will be delicious when reheated!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes! You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Cool the rolls completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. For easier access, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat!

What can I do if my French toast is too soggy?
If you find your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is too soggy, the key is to limit the soaking time. Aim for a maximum of 30 seconds when dipping the rolls in the custard mixture. Poking holes in the rolls also helps, but be careful not to over-soak. If the texture still doesn’t turn out right, try reducing the milk in the custard next time for a thicker consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you have allergies, be mindful of substitutions. For a vegan option, try substituting eggs with an egg replacer, and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if you’re serving this dish to guests.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the Hawaiian rolls a day ahead. Store the soaked rolls covered in the fridge overnight. When it’s time to serve, just cook them in the skillet for a few minutes, and they’ll be ready to enjoy a delightful breakfast!