Unforgettable Hawaiian Roll French Toast : Ultimate Breakfast

Posted on April 25, 2025 · By Lyndy

Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Looking for a sweet, fluffy, and completely irresistible breakfast idea? Meet your new obsession: Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls are transformed into golden, custardy bites of heaven that melt in your mouth. Whether you want a twist on classic French toast, a new weekend breakfast favorite, or a crowd-pleasing breakfast sweet, this recipe is for you!

Ready to turn an everyday morning into a mini celebration?

Why Hawaiian Roll French Toast Is the Perfect Weekend Breakfast Treat

There’s something truly magical about Hawaiian rolls — their soft texture and subtle sweetness make them perfect for soaking up rich, creamy custard. Combine that with the beloved tradition of French toast, and you’ve got a match made in breakfast heaven.

Why you’ll love it:

  • Perfect for French toast breakfast feasts and weekend breakfast gatherings
  • A unique twist on classic French toast everyone will rave about
  • Easy to scale up for brunches, holidays, or family events
  • Doubles as a dessert when topped with fruit and whipped cream

Hawaiian roll French toast turns simple ingredients into a breakfast that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make!

Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast (With Exact Measurements)

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

  • 1 package (12 rolls) Hawaiian rolls (King’s Hawaiian preferred)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream (for serving)

Pro Tip: For extra decadence, you can swap milk for heavy cream!

Essential Kitchen Equipment for the Best Classic French Toast

You’ll need just a few simple tools:

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Shallow baking dish or pie plate (for soaking rolls)
  • Non-stick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Serving plate

Minimal prep, maximum flavor — just how weekend breakfasts should be!

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide: How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

  1. Prepare the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
  2. Slice the rolls: Carefully separate or slice the Hawaiian rolls apart, keeping them thick and pillowy.
  3. Soak the rolls: Place the rolls in a shallow dish and pour the custard over them. Let them soak for about 30 seconds per side — enough to absorb the mixture but not get soggy.
  4. Cook the rolls: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted and sizzling, add the soaked rolls. Cook until golden brown on each side, about 2–3 minutes per side.
  5. Serve: Stack the rolls on a plate, dust with powdered sugar, and drizzle with maple syrup. Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

French Toast Breakfast Tips: Getting the Perfect Texture

For French toast perfection every time:

  • Don’t oversoak: Hawaiian rolls are soft — they absorb liquid quickly. Short soaking ensures a creamy center without falling apart.
  • Cook on medium heat: Too high and the outside burns before the inside cooks.
  • Use fresh but slightly stale rolls: Day-old Hawaiian rolls hold up even better to soaking.
  • Butter wisely: Keep the skillet buttery but not greasy for that golden crust.

Little details make a huge difference when creating the best French toast breakfast ever!

Sweet Ideas: Turning Hawaiian Rolls Into Breakfast Sweets

Want to take it up a notch? Here are some decadent variations:

  • Stuff them: Add a dollop of cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit jam before dipping.
  • Top them: Pile on caramelized bananas, spiced apples, or roasted strawberries.
  • Flavor them: Mix orange zest, almond extract, or pumpkin spice into the custard for seasonal flavors.

Breakfast sweets never looked (or tasted) so good!

French Toast Bake: How to Make a Casserole Version for Brunch

Feeding a crowd? Turn your Hawaiian Roll French Toast into a French toast bake:

  • Arrange rolls in a buttered casserole dish.
  • Pour custard evenly over the rolls.
  • Let sit for 20–30 minutes or overnight (perfect for make-ahead brunches).
  • Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until puffed and golden.

Serve warm with extra syrup on the side for a cozy, shareable breakfast that screams weekend brunch magic.

Weekend Breakfast Ideas: Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Looking for weekend breakfast inspiration? This recipe has it all:

  • It feels indulgent but is incredibly simple.
  • It’s endlessly customizable for picky eaters and fancy palates alike.
  • It’s a fun twist on tradition that surprises and delights everyone at the table.

Perfect for lazy Sundays, holiday mornings, or when you simply want to make breakfast special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipes Casserole Variations and Flavor Twists

Change it up with these easy ideas:

  • Berry bliss: Add fresh or frozen mixed berries before baking.
  • Chocolate lover’s dream: Sprinkle chocolate chips between the rolls.
  • Fall favorite: Add diced apples, pecans, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
  • Tropical treat: Top with shredded coconut and diced pineapple.

No matter your flavor mood, there’s a recipes casserole twist for you!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Avoid these simple mistakes:

  • Oversoaking rolls: Quick dipping is key.
  • High heat cooking: Leads to burnt outsides and raw middles.
  • Skipping the seasoning: A little cinnamon and vanilla brings major flavor.
  • Crowding the pan: Cook in batches if needed for even browning.

Master these tips, and your Hawaiian roll French toast will be flawless every time.

Serving and Presentation Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Presentation makes it even more inviting:

  • Stack the rolls neatly in the center of a plate.
  • Dust generously with powdered sugar.
  • Drizzle maple syrup right before serving for a glossy finish.
  • Garnish with fresh mint, berries, or edible flowers for a fancy brunch touch.

Simple styling transforms your French toast breakfast into a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds!

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat French Toast Leftovers

Yes, you can save extra French toast:

  • Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Toast in the oven or air fryer to revive that crispy edge without making them soggy.

Enjoy the magic of homemade Hawaiian roll French toast anytime you want!

FAQs About Hawaiian Rolls and French Toast Breakfasts

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the custard and rolls separately, then soak and cook when ready.

Can I use a different type of roll?
You can, but Hawaiian rolls offer unmatched sweetness and texture.

Is it better to bake or pan-fry Hawaiian roll French toast?
Both work beautifully! Baking is ideal for feeding a crowd, while pan-frying gives crispier edges.

What toppings pair best with this dish?
Fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, and chopped nuts all shine!

Conclusion: Why Hawaiian Roll French Toast Will Become Your New Brunch Favorite

Fluffy, buttery, sweet, and totally irresistible, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is everything you could ever want in a weekend breakfast — and more. Whether you’re recreating the cozy nostalgia of classic French toast or crafting new breakfast sweets to wow your guests, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Easy enough for lazy mornings and impressive enough for holiday brunches, it’s a keeper you’ll come back to again and again.

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Unforgettable Hawaiian Roll French Toast : Ultimate Breakfast


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 20

Description

Looking for a sweet, fluffy, and completely irresistible breakfast idea? Meet your new obsession: Hawaiian Roll French Toast.


Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 package (12 rolls) Hawaiian rolls (King’s Hawaiian preferred)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
  2. Slice the rolls: Carefully separate or slice the Hawaiian rolls apart, keeping them thick and pillowy.
  3. Soak the rolls: Place the rolls in a shallow dish and pour the custard over them. Let them soak for about 30 seconds per side — enough to absorb the mixture but not get soggy.
  4. Cook the rolls: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted and sizzling, add the soaked rolls. Cook until golden brown on each side, about 2–3 minutes per side.
  5. Serve: Stack the rolls on a plate, dust with powdered sugar, and drizzle with maple syrup. Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Notes

  • Don’t oversoak: Hawaiian rolls are soft — they absorb liquid quickly. Short soaking ensures a creamy center without falling apart.
  • Cook on medium heat: Too high and the outside burns before the inside cooks.
  • Use fresh but slightly stale rolls: Day-old Hawaiian rolls hold up even better to soaking.
  • Butter wisely: Keep the skillet buttery but not greasy for that golden crust.
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 8g

Keywords: Hawaiian Roll French Toast

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