Hawaiian Roll French Toast: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Emma Johnson

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-10T22:19:38.081Z

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is an amazing way to elevate your brunch experience. This delightful dish combines the soft and sweet goodness of Hawaiian rolls with a custardy batter, resulting in a tropical twist on a classic favorite. Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm, sugary toast infused with hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and coconut. Each bite transports you to a serene island paradise, making it an incredible treat worth sharing with family and friends. If you haven’t tried Hawaiian Roll French Toast yet, you’re in for a sensational culinary adventure. The rich flavors and fluffy texture make it an unbeatable choice for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Whether you are hosting a festive brunch or enjoying a leisurely Sunday morning, this recipe promises to impress everyone at the table. Let’s delve into why this recipe deserves a place in your cookbook and how you can easily prepare it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures to the breakfast table. Here are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
  1. Unique Ingredients: Using Hawaiian rolls adds a unique sweetness, unlike traditional bread.
  2. Quick and Easy: The preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for busy mornings.
  3. Crowd-Pleaser: Its tropical flair and familiar French toast flavor appeal to both kids and adults.
  4. Versatile Toppings: You can personalize the dish with your favorite toppings like fresh fruits, whipped cream, or syrup.
  5. Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s suitable for weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or even a cozy family get-together.
  6. Recipe Variations: You can experiment with different flavors and add-ons, such as coconut milk or macadamia nuts, to make it your own.
With these delectable factors in mind, you can see why Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to every bite.

Preparation and Cooking Time

In total, making Hawaiian Roll French Toast takes about 30 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
These times may vary depending on your expertise and kitchen setup, but this estimate should guide you well.

Ingredients

  • 12 Hawaiian rolls, sliced in half
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Butter, for frying
  • Maple syrup, for serving
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Fresh fruit (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Hawaiian Roll French Toast involves simple steps that yield delicious results:
  1. Prepare the Eggs Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  2. Soak the Rolls: Dip each slice of the Hawaiian rolls into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak for about 30 seconds on each side.
  3. Preheat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter, letting it melt.
  4. Cook the Toast: Place the soaked rolls in the skillet, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Repeat: Add more butter as needed and continue cooking remaining slices in batches.
  6. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, transfer the French toast to a serving platter.
  7. Garnish: Lightly dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup and fresh fruit on the side.
These steps will guide you to create a deliciously unique Hawaiian Roll French Toast that will impress both friends and family.

How to Serve

To make the experience of enjoying Hawaiian Roll French Toast even more memorable, consider the following serving suggestions:
  1. Presentation: Serve the French toast on a large platter, arranging them neatly for a visually appealing display.
  2. Accompaniments: Offer a variety of toppings such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or shredded coconut to enhance the tropical theme.
  3. Syrup Variety: Provide different types of syrup, like regular maple syrup, coconut syrup, or even a fruit compote.
  4. Beverage Pairing: Complement your breakfast with refreshing beverages like tropical fruit juices or a smooth coffee blend.
  5. Personalized Touch: Allow guests to customize their plates with the toppings they prefer, adding a fun interactive element.
By focusing on presentation and thoughtful accompaniments, you can turn your Hawaiian Roll French Toast into a delightful brunch experience that your guests will rave about long after the meal is over.

Additional Tips

  • Choose Fresh Rolls: For the best texture, use fresh Hawaiian rolls. Stale rolls may not absorb the egg mixture well.
  • Adjust Cinnamon to Taste: If you love a strong cinnamon flavor, feel free to increase the amount in the batter.
  • Warm Up Your Syrup: Serve warm maple syrup or top with a drizzle of honey for a cozy touch.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with these delicious twists:
  1. Tropical Twist: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the batter for extra fruity flavor.
  2. Nutty Delight: Add chopped macadamia nuts to the batter or as a topping for delightful crunch.
  3. Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over your French toast for an indulgent treat.

Freezing and Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Special Equipment

While this recipe is simple, having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother:
  • Whisk: For mixing the batter thoroughly.
  • Skillet or Griddle: A non-stick surface is ideal for cooking.
  • Spatula: Helpful for flipping the French toast without breaking it.
  • Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for the egg mixture and a smaller one for toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prevent the French toast from sticking to the skillet? Make sure your skillet is well-greased with butter and preheated to the right temperature. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk? Yes, almond milk can be a great substitute for whole milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened for the best results. How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free Hawaiian rolls and follow the same preparation steps. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture and soak the rolls the night before. Just refrigerate them covered. Can I alter the sweetness of the batter? Absolutely! Feel free to add more sugar or alternatives like honey to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a tropical getaway on your plate. The soft, sweet rolls combined with a luscious custardy batter create a mouthwatering experience that delights the senses. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a cozy brunch at home, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its versatility in flavors and toppings, it’s a recipe that you can easily make your own. Enjoy the sunshine in every bite!