Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
The Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is a delightful twist on a breakfast classic, perfect for special occasions or lazy weekends. This dish features the unique sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, making it an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, a holiday gathering, or just as a treat for your family, this recipe stands out with its soft texture and rich flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet rolls, custard, and warm spices creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as is, or dress it up with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or nuts.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for brunches, family gatherings, or even a cozy breakfast at home.
- Kid-Friendly: Children adore the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls and the fun of dipping and flipping their toast!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet or griddle: Provides an even cooking surface for perfectly golden-brown French toast.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your custard ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: Helps create a smooth custard by blending eggs and milk effectively.

Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian rolls: The star of the show! Ideal for their softness and sweetness.
- 4 large eggs: Provides the necessary protein structure for that classic texture.
- 1 cup milk: Adds moisture and creaminess to the custard mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with its aromatic sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: Classic spice that enhances warmth and aroma.
- Pinch of salt: Balances flavors without making the dish salty.
- Butter for cooking: Ensures a rich taste and crispy exterior.
For Serving
- Maple syrup: The perfect finishing touch to complement the French toast’s flavors.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients together. Using slightly stale King’s Hawaiian rolls works best as they absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until well blended.
- Gradually add in the milk while continuing to whisk until combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
- Slice each roll in half horizontally to create two pieces per roll.
- Dip each piece into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated but not overly soaked.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter until melted.
- Place soaked rolls on the skillet once hot; cook until golden brown on one side (about 3-4 minutes).
- Flip each piece to cook on the other side until equally golden (another 2-3 minutes).
Step 5: Serve with Maple Syrup
Once cooked to perfection, remove from heat and serve immediately with a drizzle of maple syrup on top. Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your breakfast experience and bring a burst of flavor to your plate.
Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness.
- Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas for creaminess and natural sweetness that complements the rolls.
- Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of orange or lemon zest can brighten up the dish and add a refreshing flavor.
Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Nuts and Seeds
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkle toasted nuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavors that pair beautifully with the soft rolls.
- Chia Seeds: For a nutritious boost, sprinkle chia seeds over your French toast for added texture and health benefits.
Drizzles and Sauces
- Honey or Agave Syrup: For a less traditional yet delicious option, drizzle honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a unique sweetness.
- Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle can turn this dish into a decadent dessert-like treat.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
To achieve the ultimate Hawaiian Roll French Toast, keep these tips in mind. They will help ensure that your dish is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
- Bold Use Stale Rolls: Slightly stale rolls absorb custard better without becoming too mushy. Aim for rolls that are 1-2 days old.
- Bold Mix Custard Well: Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly to create a smooth custard that coats the rolls evenly.
- Bold Preheat Pan Properly: Ensure your skillet is preheated before adding butter. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on each slice.
- Bold Soak Time Matters: Allow the rolls to soak in the custard for at least 15 minutes. This gives them time to absorb the flavors fully.
- Bold Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on medium-low heat ensures even cooking throughout while avoiding burnt exteriors.
- Bold Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like fruits, nuts, or flavored syrups to customize each serving.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can complement the meal beautifully. Here are some tasty options that work well together.
- Greek Yogurt: A side of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making your breakfast more balanced.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of the French toast.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers freshness and acidity that balances the richness of the rolls.
- Breakfast Sausage Links: Chicken or turkey sausage links add heartiness to your meal without overpowering the sweetness.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns give a crunchy texture that’s delightful alongside fluffy French toast.
- Avocado Toast: For a modern twist, serve avocado toast topped with salt and pepper as a creamy counterpoint to your sweet dish.
- Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl can provide additional nutrients while keeping everything light and vibrant.
- Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Sweet tortilla chips dusted with cinnamon sugar make a fun crunchy side that’s easy to prepare.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Using fresh rolls: Freshly baked rolls may not absorb the custard properly. Opt for slightly stale rolls for the best results.
- Skipping the salt: A pinch of salt enhances flavors in a sweet dish. Don’t skip it; it balances the sweetness and elevates taste.
- Not whisking enough: Insufficiently whisking the eggs and milk can lead to an uneven custard. Ensure a smooth blend for optimal soaking.
- Overcooking on high heat: Cooking on too high a heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside soggy. Use medium heat for even cooking.
- Neglecting toppings: Skipping toppings like syrup or fruit can make your dish less exciting. Add these for added flavor and texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until hot, checking often.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to warm evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe that might help you perfect your dish.
Can I use other types of bread?
You can use other sweet rolls or brioche, but King’s Hawaiian rolls offer unique flavor and texture ideal for this recipe.
How do I make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based milk.
What toppings go well with this dish?
Popular toppings include maple syrup, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even nuts for added texture.
Is there a way to make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time and soak the rolls overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for breakfast or brunch. You can customize it with different toppings or spices based on your preference. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Indulge in the delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, a sweet breakfast treat that transforms ordinary mornings into extraordinary occasions. This dish features the soft and sweet texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls, which soak up a rich custard made from eggs, milk, and warm spices. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, this recipe is both easy to prepare and utterly satisfying. Whether topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup, each bite is a burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweetness and comfort in this tropical twist on a breakfast classic!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 slices) 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 package King's Hawaiian rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for cooking
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until blended, then add milk and continue whisking until combined. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Slice each roll in half horizontally and dip each piece into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
- Melt butter in the skillet, then place soaked rolls on it. Cook until golden brown on one side (about 3-4 minutes), then flip to cook the other side until golden (another 2-3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and serve immediately with maple syrup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
