If you love French toast and have a soft spot for sweet, buttery bread, then Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a game-changer. This recipe takes the classic French toast we all know and love and gives it an upgrade by using Hawaiian rolls instead of traditional bread. The result? A rich, slightly sweet, and incredibly soft breakfast dish that’s perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or even a quick weekday treat.
Hawaiian rolls have a naturally sweet flavor and a fluffy texture, making them the perfect base for soaking up a delicious cinnamon-vanilla custard. Once pan-fried to golden perfection, they become crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside. Top them with syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar, and you have a breakfast that tastes like a tropical dream.
Ingredients
- 1 package of Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 rolls)
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt. This mixture will serve as the custard that the Hawaiian rolls soak in before cooking. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined for even flavor distribution.
Step 2: Prep the Hawaiian Rolls
Carefully separate the Hawaiian rolls, but leave them intact as a cluster if you prefer a pull-apart style French toast. If you want individual pieces, you can separate each roll completely.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Dip each roll (or the entire cluster) into the egg mixture, making sure they soak up the custard but don’t become too soggy. Let any excess mixture drip off before cooking.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter. Once the butter is sizzling, place the soaked Hawaiian rolls in the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Flip carefully to cook all sides evenly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, transfer the French toast to a serving plate and top with your favorite additions. Classic options include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Don’t over-soak the rolls. Hawaiian rolls are soft, so they absorb the custard quickly. A quick dip is enough.
- Use butter for cooking. It gives the toast a rich, golden-brown crust that oil can’t replicate.
- Experiment with toppings. Try coconut flakes, honey, or even caramelized bananas for a tropical twist.
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on a breakfast classic. It’s sweet, buttery, and so easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself to a fancy breakfast, this dish is guaranteed to impress!