Hawaiian Roll French Toast – Fluffy, Sweet, and Easy Breakfast

There’s something magical about Hawaiian Roll French Toast. The warm, custardy inside and the golden, buttery outside create a breakfast that feels like a hug on a plate. But when you swap out regular bread for soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls, the whole experience transforms into something truly special. The result? A fluffy, pillowy, melt-in-your-mouth French toast that takes your morning meal to the next level.

I first stumbled upon the idea of using Hawaiian rolls for French toast while scrolling through TikTok. A chef named Candace shared her version, and I was immediately intrigued. Hawaiian rolls already have a light sweetness and soft texture, so they seemed like the perfect fit for a rich, eggy custard. I gave it a try, made a few tweaks, and now this recipe has become a weekend favorite in my house. It’s indulgent, yet so simple to make.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it plain with just a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, or you can take it to the next level by stuffing the rolls with cream cheese, fruit, or even chocolate. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch, a holiday morning, or just a regular Saturday when you want to treat yourself, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is guaranteed to impress.

And don’t worry—this recipe is beginner-friendly! Even if you’ve never made French toast before, I’ll guide you through every step to make sure you get the perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and softness on the inside. So, grab a pack of Hawaiian rolls, and let’s make breakfast magic happen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast. First and foremost, the texture is out of this world. Unlike traditional bread, which can sometimes get soggy, Hawaiian rolls hold their shape beautifully while absorbing just the right amount of custard. The result? A French toast that’s fluffy and tender inside but perfectly caramelized on the outside.

Another reason this recipe stands out is its natural sweetness. Hawaiian rolls have a touch of sweetness baked right in, so you don’t need to overload the dish with sugar. The light hint of brown sugar and cinnamon in the custard enhances their flavor without overpowering them.

If you love easy recipes, this one is a dream. There’s no slicing or worrying about finding the right bread. The rolls come in the perfect size, making the preparation effortless. Plus, since they’re already pre-portioned, they cook evenly and are easy to serve.

Health Benefits

While this recipe is definitely on the indulgent side, there are still some health benefits worth mentioning.

For starters, eggs are a great source of protein. Each serving of this French toast provides a good amount of protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied throughout the morning. Eggs also contain essential vitamins like B12, which supports brain function, and choline, which is important for metabolism and liver health.

The use of Hawaiian rolls instead of traditional white bread means you’re getting a softer, more nutrient-dense base. Many brands enrich their rolls with vitamins and minerals, giving them a slight nutritional advantage over basic white bread.

If you opt for half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, you’re getting a balance of richness without excessive fat. Dairy provides calcium and vitamin D, both of which are important for bone health.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or special brunches when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 (depending on portion size)

Nutritional Information (per serving, without toppings)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 12g
• Sugar: 12g
• Fiber: 1g

Keep in mind that adding toppings like syrup, whipped cream, or chocolate will increase the calorie count, while adding fresh fruit can enhance the nutritional value.

Ingredients List

To make this fluffy and delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need the following ingredients:

The French Toast

• 12 Hawaiian rolls (one standard pack)
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup half-and-half or whole milk (for a richer texture, you can use heavy cream)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)

Optional Toppings & Add-Ins

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Maple syrup (for drizzling)
• Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, bananas, etc.)
• Whipped cream
• Chocolate chips or Nutella
• Caramel sauce

Optional Stuffed French Toast Fillings

• Cream cheese and jam (for a tangy-sweet filling)
• Peanut butter and banana slices
• Chocolate chips and marshmallow fluff

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this French toast is incredibly simple, but a few techniques will help you achieve the best results. Follow these steps to create perfectly fluffy and caramelized Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or milk), brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined, and there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining.

Poke Holes in the Hawaiian Rolls

Using a fork or toothpick, poke a few small holes in the bottom of each Hawaiian roll. This step helps the custard soak in more evenly without making the rolls too soggy.

Dip the Rolls in Custard

One by one, dip each roll into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds—just long enough to absorb some of the liquid without falling apart. If you’re stuffing the rolls, slice them open first, add your filling, then dip them in the custard.

Cook on a Buttered Skillet

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place the soaked rolls onto the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. If they brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly.

Continue this process until all the rolls are cooked, adding more butter as needed.

Flip and Cook Evenly

As the Hawaiian rolls cook, gently flip them using tongs or a spatula to ensure even browning on all sides. Since these rolls are rounder and thicker than regular bread slices, it’s important to cook each side evenly, including the edges. This will help achieve a perfect golden-brown crust while keeping the inside soft and custardy.

If you find that the rolls are browning too quickly but still feel a bit raw inside, reduce the heat to low and let them cook for an additional minute. You can also cover the skillet with a lid for a short time to help the heat penetrate the center of the rolls.

Remove from Heat and Rest

Once your Hawaiian rolls are beautifully golden and slightly crisp on the outside, transfer them to a plate. Let them rest for about a minute before serving. This allows the custard to set slightly, ensuring that each bite is the perfect balance of fluffy and firm.

Add Your Favorite Toppings

Now comes the fun part—customizing your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with delicious toppings! Here are some great options:

• Classic: A dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Fruity: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even caramelized peaches.
• Indulgent: A drizzle of chocolate syrup, Nutella, or caramel sauce.
• Creamy: A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of mascarpone cheese.
• Crunchy: Chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for extra texture.

Serve Immediately

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while still warm. Serve with your favorite sides and drinks for a complete breakfast experience.

How to Serve

There are so many ways to serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast, making it a great dish for any occasion. Here are a few serving ideas:

For a Classic Breakfast

• Serve with a simple drizzle of maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Add a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning meal.

For a Fancy Brunch

• Arrange the French toast rolls on a platter with whipped cream and a variety of fruit toppings.
• Serve alongside scrambled eggs, turkey bacon, or chicken sausage for a well-rounded meal.
• Offer different syrups and spreads, like honey, Nutella, or fruit preserves, for a DIY toppings bar.

Pairing Suggestions

The sweetness of Hawaiian Roll French Toast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your meal:

Beverages

• Coffee: A classic cup of coffee or a creamy latte balances the sweetness.
• Tea: A spiced chai or black tea with honey pairs wonderfully.
• Fresh Juice: Orange juice, apple cider, or a tropical smoothie adds a refreshing touch.
• Milk: A cold glass of milk complements the warm, fluffy texture.

Savory Sides

• Scrambled Eggs: The creaminess of scrambled eggs pairs well with the crispy French toast.
• Turkey Bacon or Chicken Sausage: A salty, smoky contrast to the sweet dish.
• Hash Browns: A crispy potato side adds texture and balances the meal.

Fruit-Based Additions

• Berry Compote: A warm mixture of cooked berries adds a tart contrast.
• Citrus Segments: Orange or grapefruit slices provide a fresh, tangy bite.
• Grilled Pineapple: A tropical twist that enhances the Hawaiian flavors.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers or want to meal prep in advance, Hawaiian Roll French Toast stores well and reheats beautifully.

Storing

• Refrigeration: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Separation Tip: Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Flash Freeze: Arrange cooked and cooled French toast rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for 1 hour.
• Storage: Transfer the frozen pieces to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place French toast on a baking sheet, and warm for 8-10 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes for a crispier texture.
• Microwave: Heat for 30-45 seconds, though this method may soften the exterior.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the best results, watch out for these common mistakes:

1. Over-Soaking the Rolls

If you leave the rolls in the custard mixture too long, they can become soggy and fall apart. Aim for 30 seconds of soaking time.

2. Cooking on High Heat

Cooking on high heat will brown the outside too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to medium-low heat for even cooking.

3. Not Using Enough Butter

Butter helps achieve a golden, crispy crust. Skimping on it can lead to dry or unevenly cooked French toast.

4. Skipping the Poke Holes Step

Poking small holes in the rolls helps the custard absorb more evenly. If you skip this step, the flavor might not distribute as well.

5. Not Resting the Toast After Cooking

Letting the French toast sit for a minute before serving allows the custard to set, giving you the perfect texture.

Pro Tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure the best results:

1. Use Day-Old Hawaiian Rolls

Slightly stale rolls absorb the custard better without getting too soggy.

2. Preheat Your Pan Properly

Let your pan heat up for a few minutes before adding butter to ensure even cooking.

3. Experiment with Spices

Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

4. Make a Stuffed Version

Slice the rolls open and add a filling like cream cheese and jam for an extra decadent twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

Yes! Brioche or challah bread would be great alternatives.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use almond milk or oat milk and replace butter with coconut oil.

3. Can I prepare the custard mixture the night before?

Yes! Store it in the fridge and stir before using.

4. What if I don’t have cinnamon?

You can use nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or skip it altogether.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is everything you could want in a breakfast—fluffy, golden, and deliciously sweet. Whether you’re making it for a casual morning meal or a special brunch, it’s sure to be a hit.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment, share your experience, and tag me on social media with your delicious creations. Happy cooking!

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