There is something irresistibly delightful about a breakfast that combines soft, fluffy Hawaiian sweet rolls with the classic comfort of French toast. This Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe takes the familiar and cranks it up a notch by using those tender, subtly sweet rolls that soak up a rich, cinnamon-vanilla custard perfectly. The result is a golden, melt-in-your-mouth morning treat that’s easy to whip up and guarantees smiles around the table. Whether you keep the rolls whole or pull them apart, every bite bursts with creamy goodness and a hint of tropical sweetness that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to making this magical Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe. Each component plays a vital role—from the sweet rolls that give it its signature fluffiness, to the warm spices and rich dairy that create the luscious custard soaking the bread in all the right ways.
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls: The star of the show, their soft texture and subtle sweetness make them perfect for French toast.
- 4 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the custard soak.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture without weighing down the bread.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Elevates the custard’s richness for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances out the eggs and milk with just a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warm, aromatic notes enhancing every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic French toast spice twist.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For cooking—creates a golden, crisp crust.
- Powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit: Toppings that bring freshness, extra sweetness, and visual appeal.
How to Make Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Start by whisking together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Aim for a smooth custard where all the ingredients are perfectly combined. This luscious blend is what breathes life into the sweet rolls, turning them into that instantly craveable morning indulgence.
Step 2: Dip the Rolls
If you like a more substantial bite, keep the Hawaiian rolls together as a connected sheet. Alternatively, pull them apart gently for individual toasts. Dip each roll or cluster briefly into the custard making sure they soak up just enough flavor without becoming too soggy. This quick dip is key; you want each bite tender but still able to hold its shape through cooking.
Step 3: Cook Until Golden Brown
Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a bit of the unsalted butter to ensure a crispy, buttery finish. Place the soaked rolls on the skillet carefully, cooking each side for 2–3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a gorgeous golden crust forms and inside feels fully cooked yet soft. Work in batches, adding butter as needed to keep that perfect sear going strong.
How to Serve Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the magic a simple garnish can bring. A dusting of powdered sugar gives a delicate sweetness and snowy look that begs to be eaten, while a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup adds that classic French toast richness. Fresh fruit like berries, banana slices, or tropical options such as pineapple or mango perfectly complement the Hawaiian rolls’ subtle sweetness and brighten the plate beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe is rich and comforting on its own, it pairs wonderfully with lighter, fresh sides like a crisp green salad or a citrusy fruit salad. For a brunch spread, consider crispy bacon or sausage to add savory contrast and round out your meal. The balance of sweet and savory alongside your toast elevates breakfast to a whole new level.
Creative Ways to Present
Getting creative with your presentation can make this dish a real showstopper. Arrange the French toast rolls in layers, stacking them with layers of whipped cream or fruit compote for a French toast “cake.” Or try assembling them into a casserole-style bake by soaking rolls separately then baking with extra custard poured over the top. Sharing your Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe as an eye-catching platter makes it perfect for special occasions or weekend brunch gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days and make for an easy breakfast or snack to reheat later.
Freezing
To save for longer periods, wrap individual or grouped rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll hold well for up to 1 month, allowing you to enjoy that Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe magic whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or pop them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that crisp outside and soft center experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian sweet rolls?
While you could substitute, using Hawaiian sweet rolls adds a subtle tropical sweetness and incredibly soft texture that makes the French toast extra special. Dinner rolls won’t absorb custard quite the same way or bring that signature flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
To create a dairy-free version, try swapping the whole milk and heavy cream for plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk mixed with vegan butter for cooking. Use a flax egg or other egg replacer to keep the custard consistency close. The texture might shift but still delicious!
What is the best way to prevent sogginess when dipping the rolls?
Dip the rolls quickly just to soak the surface, letting excess drip off before cooking. Gentle soaking keeps the inside tender while the outside crisps up nicely without turning mushy.
Can I make this Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! For a fuss-free morning, assemble the rolls in a baking dish, pour custard over, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning for a warm, fresh breakfast everyone will love.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 4 servings, with about three Hawaiian rolls per person — plenty to satisfy hearty appetites or to treat yourself to leftovers later on.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to brighten your breakfast routine, I highly recommend trying this Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe. It’s accessible yet delightfully decadent, infusing the everyday with a touch of sweet celebration. Whether for a cozy weekend morning or a lively brunch with friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Hawaiian Rolls French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Hawaiian Rolls French Toast recipe transforms sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls into a rich and flavorful breakfast treat. Dipped in a cinnamon-vanilla custard and pan-fried to golden perfection, these rolls are served warm with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh fruit, making for a delicious and easy brunch option.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (left whole or pulled apart)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
For Serving
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit
Instructions
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare Rolls: If using whole rolls, keep them attached as a sheet; otherwise, pull them apart carefully into individual rolls.
- Soak Rolls: Dip the rolls briefly into the custard mixture, allowing them to soak up some custard but ensuring they do not become soggy.
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a portion of the unsalted butter to coat the surface.
- Cook Rolls: Place the soaked rolls onto the warmed skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning gently to achieve a golden brown, crispy crust while ensuring the inside is cooked through. Work in batches if necessary, adding more butter as needed.
- Serve: Serve the French toasted Hawaiian rolls warm. Dust with powdered sugar and accompany with maple syrup and fresh fruit for a delicious presentation.
Notes
- For a casserole-style version, arrange the rolls in a baking dish and pour the custard mixture over the top. Refrigerate overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden and set.
- Use fresh or frozen fruit as a topping to add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Adjust the soaking time to avoid overly soggy rolls, especially if using whole sheet rolls.
- Butter can be substituted with a non-dairy butter for a dairy-free alternative.
