The moment I swapped my traditional bread for soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls in my French toast recipe, everything changed. Enter Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite that transforms morning meals into something truly special. Not only does this recipe come together quickly—ideal for busy mornings or leisurely weekends—but it’s also a sure crowd-pleaser that your family will adore. Each bite is fluffy and rich, making breakfast feel like an indulgent treat without any fuss. Plus, the customizable nature allows you to get creative with toppings, ensuring every serving can be a little different. Ready to make your mornings brighter? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast a Must-Try?

Irresistible sweetness: Using King’s Hawaiian rolls elevates this classic dish with a unique, delightful taste that traditional bread simply can’t match.

Quick preparation: This recipe is perfect for busy mornings, requiring minimal effort while still delivering maximum flavor.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s brunch with friends or a special family breakfast, this dish guarantees smiles all around.

Customizable toppings: From Nutella to fresh fruit or whipped cream, you can tailor each serving to suit individual tastes, making it versatile for everyone.

Delightfully fluffy texture: The combination of soft rolls and a rich batter results in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or enjoy it along with a Cinnamon Roll Protein shake for a balanced breakfast that’s both sweet and fulfilling!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the Batter

King’s Sweet Hawaiian Rolls – These provide a unique sweetness and soft texture; may substitute with similar soft rolls if unavailable.
Egg – Acts as the binding agent and adds richness; for a vegan option, use flax eggs.
Half-and-Half (or Milk) – Adds creaminess to the batter; substitute with almond or oat milk for dairy-free versions.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; using pure vanilla will yield the best taste.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; you can swap it with honey or a sugar alternative.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds spice and warmth; feel free to replace with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Nutmeg – Provides additional warmth; it’s optional if unavailable.

For Cooking

Butter (divided) – Used for cooking the French toast, creating a rich flavor; coconut oil or margarine can be used instead for dairy-free options.

For Serving

Powdered Sugar (optional) – Perfect for dusting and adding visual appeal; can be omitted or replaced with a sugar-free alternative.

Get ready to whip up the most delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast that will have your loved ones begging for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Begin by separating the King’s Hawaiian rolls into individual pieces. Slice each roll horizontally to create bite-sized portions, making them perfect for an indulgent Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Set them aside while you prepare the batter, ensuring they’re ready to soak up that delicious mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg until smooth and well combined. The batter should be creamy and homogenous, with a rich aroma. This mixture will help create the fluffy texture that makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast so delightful.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat to begin warming. Allow it to reach a steady temperature, which should take about 3-4 minutes. It’s important not to rush this step, as even cooking will yield perfectly golden-brown pieces of Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 4: Butter the Pan
Once the skillet is heated, add two tablespoons of butter and let it melt thoroughly, swirling it around the pan to coat the surface. This will add flavor and ensure your French toast doesn’t stick. The butter should bubble slightly, giving a deliciously rich base for cooking.

Step 5: Dip the Rolls
Gently dip 4-6 sliced Hawaiian rolls into the egg batter, making sure to coat each piece but avoid soaking them too long. This brief immersion will help maintain their texture and prevent sogginess, ensuring your Hawaiian Roll French Toast comes out fluffy and light.

Step 6: Cook in Batches
Carefully place the dipped rolls into the skillet, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for a golden-brown color to develop, as this indicates they’re perfectly cooked. If necessary, adjust the heat to keep them from browning too quickly while ensuring they are fully cooked through.

Step 7: Serve Warm
Once cooked, remove the Hawaiian Roll French Toast from the skillet and place them on a serving plate. Dust generously with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation and serve warm with your choice of toppings, like fresh fruit or whipped cream, to elevate this delightful breakfast experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the egg mixture (combining eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can separate and slice the rolls ahead of time, so they’re ready to soak up the delicious batter the next morning. Just before serving, dip the prepared rolls in the batter and cook them on a skillet for a quick and delightful breakfast treat. With these make ahead options, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality Hawaiian Roll French Toast with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Keep It Quick: Dip rolls swiftly in the egg mixture; this prevents sogginess and maintains a fluffy texture in your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Monitor the Heat: Cooking on medium-low is crucial. Too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
Preheat the Skillet: Allow the skillet to fully heat before adding butter. This ensures even cooking and a lovely golden-brown finish.
Batch Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches to maintain optimal heat and cook each piece evenly without steaming.
Texture Check: Aim for a light and airy interior. A well-prepared batter paired with quick dipping will yield that dreamy fluffiness.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Enhance your breakfast experience with delightful side dishes and toppings that perfectly complement the sweetness of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a tart contrast that brightens each rich bite.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs beautifully, adding a savory note that balances the sweetness of the French toast.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream makes every piece feel indulgent, elevating your breakfast to a special occasion.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup provides a classic touch that enhances the flavors of both the toast and the syrupy sweetness.
Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fresh fruit next to your French toast offers a refreshing and creamy addition, perfect for a balanced meal.
Cinnamon Coffee: A warm cup of cinnamon-infused coffee ties the whole meal together, adding a cozy flavor that complements the cinnamon in the toast.
Nutella Spread: For a chocolatey twist, serve Nutella alongside your French toast as a delicious dip that adds an extra layer of indulgence.

For a complete experience, consider mixing and matching these pairings to create a breakfast that everyone will love!

Storage Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Enjoy Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh for the best flavors. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This helps maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet or air fryer at a low temperature until warmed through, ensuring the delightful fluffiness of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast is preserved.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to get inventive with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast! Here are some delightful twists to elevate your breakfast experience.

Savory Version: Add cheese and fresh herbs to the egg batter for a savory breakfast twist. This unique combination will excite your taste buds!
Fruit-Filled Delight: Top your French toast with fresh berries or sliced peaches for a burst of juicy sweetness. Drizzle with honey for an extra touch of flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Spread Nutella on the prepared rolls before dipping them in the egg mixture for a rich, chocolatey breakfast indulgence.
Seasonal Spices: Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin spice during fall to bring a delightful autumn flavor to your dish. Perfect for those cozy mornings!
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before serving for added crunch and texture. The added layer of flavor will keep you delighted with every bite.
Coconut Bliss: Incorporate shredded coconut in the batter or as a topping for tropical flair. It pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls!
Maple Twist: Instead of granulated sugar, you can use maple syrup as a sweetener in the batter. This will infuse your French toast with a lovely, warm flavor.

For even more delicious ideas, consider pairing this dish with a side of our delectable Cinnamon Roll Cake or enjoying a scrumptious slice of French Onion Ground casserole for a heartier breakfast. The possibilities are endless!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of rolls should I use?
Absolutely, using King’s Sweet Hawaiian rolls is key to achieving that unique sweetness and soft texture. If those aren’t available, look for similarly soft and sweet rolls, like brioche or challah, which will work just as well!

How do I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Very! Once cooled completely, you can store your leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in an air fryer for the best texture.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Of course! To freeze, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or air fryer until warmed through.

How can I avoid sogginess in my French toast?
Absolutely! To prevent sogginess, it’s important to quickly dip the rolls into the egg mixture—no more than a few seconds on each side. This way, they soak up enough batter without oversaturation. Additionally, cooking over medium-low heat will help cook them through without burning the exterior.

Are there any dietary considerations for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes! If you’re making this for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the recipe. For a vegan version, use flax eggs instead of traditional eggs and almond or oat milk in place of half-and-half. Just be sure to choose vegan-friendly rolls as well!

Can I customize the toppings for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add Nutella, sliced bananas, or even a drizzle of maple syrup. Whipped cream and chopped nuts are fantastic too—all of these options will give your Hawaiian Roll French Toast a personal touch!