French toast is a breakfast classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate. But have you ever tried making it with Hawaiian rolls? Trust me, this small twist makes a world of difference. Hawaiian roll French toast is crispy on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside, and has a slight sweetness that elevates your morning meal. Whether you’re making a cozy breakfast for yourself, feeding a busy family, or hosting a brunch for friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
At Cheezy Recipes, we believe that breakfast should be delicious yet simple enough for everyone to enjoy. This recipe checks all the boxes—it’s easy, customizable, and packed with comforting flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!). So, grab your Hawaiian sweet rolls, and let’s dive into this irresistible dish!
What Are Hawaiian Rolls?
Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about the star ingredient: Hawaiian rolls. These sweet, buttery rolls originated in Hawaii and became popular in the 1950s thanks to their unique flavor and soft, pillowy texture. They are slightly denser than regular sandwich bread, which makes them perfect for soaking up custard without falling apart.
The most well-known brand is King’s Hawaiian, but many stores carry their own versions of sweet rolls. Whether you’re using the classic King’s Hawaiian or a store-brand alternative, these rolls bring just the right touch of sweetness to your French toast. And yes, you can use them for everything from sliders to bread pudding, but they really shine in breakfast recipes like this one.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why this Hawaiian roll French toast recipe deserves a spot in your breakfast rotation:
- Perfect Texture: The rolls crisp up beautifully on the outside but stay soft and custardy inside.
- Easy to Make: You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a pan, some basic ingredients, and a love for breakfast.
- Versatile: You can customize the toppings to suit your cravings, whether you’re in the mood for something fruity or decadent.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids, thanks to its sweetness and fun toppings like whipped cream and Nutella.
Whether you’re making this for a quiet weekend at home or a special holiday brunch, it’s sure to be a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best Hawaiian roll French toast, gather the following ingredients:
Primary Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (or any store-bought sweet rolls)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half (for a richer custard)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for a hint of caramelized sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (high-quality vanilla makes a big difference)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
Topping Ideas
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit (like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices)
- Whipped cream
- Nutella or chocolate drizzle
For a tropical twist, you can also use coconut milk in place of regular milk or drizzle pineapple syrup over the top.
Preparing the Custard Mixture
The secret to delicious sweet bread French toast is a flavorful custard mixture. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:
- Crack the Eggs: Start by cracking four large eggs into a medium-sized bowl. Whisk them until fully combined.
- Add the Milk: Pour in one cup of whole milk (or half-and-half if you want extra creaminess). You can also use coconut or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Incorporate the Flavorings: Add the vanilla extract, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. The brown sugar adds a hint of caramel, while the spices make the dish feel warm and comforting.
- Mix Thoroughly: Whisk the mixture until everything is well blended and smooth.
Using high-quality vanilla extract really makes the flavors pop. If you’re aiming for a tropical flair, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice.
Preparing the Hawaiian Rolls
Hawaiian rolls are more than just a vehicle for the custard—they’re the star of the show. Here’s how to prep them for the perfect French toast:
- Slice or Leave Whole: Depending on your preference, you can either slice the rolls in half horizontally for mini French toast sliders or leave them whole for thicker pieces.
- Pierce for Absorption: Use a toothpick to poke a few holes in the rolls. This allows the custard to soak into the rolls more evenly.
- Dip Quickly: Submerge each roll in the custard mixture for about 10–15 seconds on each side. The goal is to coat the bread without letting it get too soggy.
This quick dip method helps maintain a crispy outside and soft inside—exactly what you want in French toast sliders.
Cooking Instructions
Now that your rolls are prepped, it’s time to cook them to golden perfection.
- Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. The butter ensures a crisp, golden crust while adding richness to the flavor.
- Add the Rolls: Once the butter is bubbling, place the custard-dipped rolls in the pan.
- Cook Evenly: Let each side cook for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and repeat until all sides are browned and slightly crisp.
- Work in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
Cooking on medium-low heat ensures that the rolls cook through without burning on the outside. If you prefer oven-baked French toast, you can arrange the rolls on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Topping and Serving Ideas
The beauty of Hawaiian sweet roll French toast lies in the toppings. Here are some of the best ways to serve it:
- Classic: A dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of warm maple syrup.
- Fruit Forward: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, banana slices, or even a berry compote.
- Decadent: Add a layer of Nutella, chocolate chips, or a rich chocolate drizzle.
- Whipped Cream Delight: A big dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch.
Pair your Hawaiian bread breakfast recipe with sides like crispy bacon, sausage links, or scrambled eggs for a balanced meal.
Variations of Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Want to mix things up? Try these fun variations:
- Tropical Twist: Use coconut milk in the custard and top with pineapple syrup and toasted coconut flakes.
- Chocolate Chip French Toast: Add mini chocolate chips to the custard mixture for bursts of chocolatey goodness.
- Savory Surprise: Skip the sugar and cinnamon, add a pinch of salt, and serve with cream cheese and bacon crumbles.
- Seasonal Special: Add pumpkin spice to the custard for a cozy fall-inspired version.
Each variation offers a unique spin on the original, making it easy to customize based on your mood or the season.
French Toast Casserole Using Hawaiian Rolls
For a make-ahead option or a larger gathering, try making French toast casserole:
- Layer the Rolls: Arrange the Hawaiian rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the Custard: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the rolls, ensuring they’re fully soaked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
This casserole is perfect for holiday breakfasts or when you want to serve a crowd without standing by the stove.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your King’s Hawaiian rolls French toast turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Over-Soaking: Don’t let the rolls sit in the custard for too long—it can make them soggy.
- High Heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the outside before the inside is fully cooked. Medium-low heat is key.
- Skipping the Spices: Cinnamon and vanilla add warmth and depth. Skipping these can leave your French toast tasting bland.
Suggested Pairings
Complete your breakfast spread with these delicious pairings:
- Drinks: Freshly squeezed orange juice, hot coffee, or a chai latte.
- Sides: Crispy hash browns, yogurt parfaits, or fresh fruit salad.
- Dessert-Inspired Toppings: Caramel sauce, pecans, or mini M&Ms for a fun twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat your Hawaiian roll French toast:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked French toast for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or toaster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What kind of bread is best for French toast?
Hawaiian rolls are ideal for their sweetness and absorbent texture, but you can also use brioche, challah, or thick white bread.
What is the most common mistake in making French toast?
Over-soaking the bread is a frequent issue, as it can make the French toast soggy. A quick dip is all you need.
Are you supposed to bake Hawaiian rolls before you eat them?
No, Hawaiian rolls are fully baked and ready to eat out of the package. However, warming them slightly can enhance their flavor.
What is the trick to not soggy French toast?
The trick is to dip the bread quickly in the custard and cook on medium-low heat to cook the inside without burning the outside.
Conclusion
Hawaiian roll French toast is the breakfast recipe you didn’t know you needed. It’s comforting, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you keep it simple with powdered sugar and syrup or go all out with chocolate and whipped cream, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us! We’d love to hear how you made it your own.
Please don’t forget to leave a review.
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