Hawaiian Roll French Toast: A Sweet and Fluffy Morning Treat

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

Introduction

I’ve always believed that breakfast is the ultimate way to kick-start a bright and cheerful day. Whether it’s a simple bowl of cereal or a spread of pancakes with fresh fruit, the morning meal can set the tone for everyone at the table. One of my most treasured breakfast treats is Hawaiian Roll French Toast. The first time I tried it, I was surprised by how the pillowy sweet rolls transform into a soft-yet-crispy delight when dipped in a classic custard mixture. From that day on, I knew I had to share this goodness with friends and family.

I usually make this recipe on weekends for my husband and our two kids. They look forward to it whenever I say, “Guess what’s on the menu this Saturday?” The warm aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup wafting through the house is enough to draw everyone out of bed. If you’ve never tried Hawaiian sweet rolls as a base for French toast, you’re in for a treat today. I’ll walk you through all the steps, from prepping the custard to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.

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Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Before we get started, let me lay out what you’ll need:

1. Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12 rolls)
   • You can use a full package of King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls or any other brand that suits your taste.
2. Eggs (4 large)
   • These bind everything and give the bread that signature French toast texture.
3. Milk (1 cup)
   • Whole milk works best, but you could also use 2%, almond milk, or even half-and-half for a richer flavor.
4. Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
   • Cinnamon brings a warm depth to the dish.
5. Ground Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon)
   • Nutmeg adds that touch of extra coziness.
6. Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
   • This rounds out the sweet flavor.
7. Salt (a pinch)
   • Just a little pinch to balance the sweetness.
8. Butter (2 tablespoons, plus more for greasing the pan)
   • Butter keeps the rolls from sticking and adds a lovely richness.
9. Maple Syrup or Honey (for serving)
   • A drizzle on top is the perfect finishing touch.
10. Optional Toppings

• Fresh berries, whipped cream, powdered sugar, chocolate chips, or even caramel sauce.

These ingredients are relatively simple, which makes this recipe ideal for a busy morning. You’ll likely have most items on hand. The best part is that Hawaiian rolls come in convenient packs, so you don’t have to worry about slicing an entire loaf of bread. They’re already portioned just right.

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Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness. Each roll is coated in a sweet and spiced custard, then cooked until golden brown. I like to give myself a little bit of extra time on Saturday mornings to put this together. That way, I can sip my coffee while the family wanders in, lured by the irresistible aroma.

1. Preparing the Custard Mixture

1. Crack and whisk the eggs: In a medium bowl, crack four large eggs. Give them a good whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
2. Add milk and vanilla: Pour in one cup of milk and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir gently until everything is blended.
3. Sprinkle in the spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, a quarter-teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Optional sweetener: Some folks like to add a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar or brown sugar to the custard. If you prefer a sweeter French toast, go right ahead. Otherwise, you can rely on maple syrup at the end.

This mixture should be smooth without any lumps of spice. I like using a handheld whisk, but a fork works just fine if that’s all you have on hand. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg might tempt you to give the mixture a taste test, but it’s best to keep it for the bread!

2. Dipping and Cooking

1. Split the Hawaiian rolls: One thing I’ve learned is that you can keep the rolls connected and slice them horizontally as one big sheet if you want. However, I find it easier to separate the rolls first and dip each one individually. If you prefer a more uniform shape, slice them into halves so they resemble mini buns.
2. Dip each roll: Quickly dip each piece into the egg mixture. Don’t let them sit too long, or they might get overly saturated. A couple of seconds on each side is usually perfect.
3. Preheat your griddle or skillet: Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease it with a small amount of butter or cooking spray.
4. Place the dipped rolls: Add the dipped rolls to the hot surface. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. The goal is to have a warm, toasted exterior without drying out the inside.
5. Butter between batches: If you’re cooking a lot of rolls, add more butter to the skillet as needed. Hawaiian rolls have a hint of sweetness that can stick to the pan if not well-greased, so it’s best to refresh the skillet regularly.
6. Keep them warm: You can place the cooked pieces on a baking sheet in a preheated oven (around 200°F) to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest. This way, everyone can enjoy piping hot Hawaiian Roll French Toast at the same time.

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Flavor Variations

Though the classic approach is always tasty, I sometimes like to change it up a bit, especially if I’m in the mood for something a little fancier.

1. Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
   • Spread a thin layer of chocolate hazelnut spread on each side before dipping the rolls into the custard. This adds a delightful cocoa twist.
2. Coconut Milk and Pineapple
   • For a tropical flair, replace the regular milk with coconut milk and top your French toast with crushed pineapple. Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for extra texture.
3. Strawberries and Cream
   • After cooking, slice each roll in half and fill it with fresh strawberries and sweetened whipped cream. It’s almost like a dessert, but nobody will complain at breakfast time!
4. Bananas Foster Inspired
   • Caramelize banana slices in a little butter and brown sugar. Spoon them over the French toast, and you have a decadent topping that’s perfect for special occasions.
5. Pumpkin Spice
   • Swap out the regular cinnamon and nutmeg for a pumpkin spice blend. It’s a cozy take on your usual morning fare, especially in the fall months.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas. Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a blank canvas for your favorite flavors. You might even decide to add a savory note by sprinkling in a little chili powder or serving it with bacon. I always encourage folks to experiment in the kitchen. You never know which twist might become your new go-to breakfast.

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Serving Suggestions

There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy Hawaiian Roll French Toast. But if you’re aiming for a picture-perfect plate, here are a few ideas:

• Maple Syrup and Fresh Berries
  You can’t go wrong with a drizzle of warm maple syrup and a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries. The color contrast is stunning, and the flavors complement each other well.
• Honey and Sliced Bananas
  Honey has a distinct sweetness that pairs beautifully with bananas. It’s a classic combo that delights kids and adults alike.
• Powdered Sugar and Lemon Zest
  If you’re looking for something a bit refreshing, dust powdered sugar over your French toast and sprinkle a little lemon zest on top. The zest gives a subtle zing to the meal.
• Bacon and Egg Sides
  A savory contrast helps balance the sweetness. Crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or even sausage links can round out the meal.
• Whipped Cream Topping
  For a special treat, dollop some whipped cream on each roll. Add a few chocolate shavings if you’re feeling extra fancy.

No matter your preference, this sweet bread French toast is sure to stand out on the breakfast table. If you’re inviting friends over for brunch, consider making a spread with a few different toppings so everyone can dress up their plate as they wish.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Sometimes, I make a double batch on the weekend so we can enjoy quick breakfast options for the next few days. Hawaiian Roll French Toast holds up nicely when stored correctly, which is a bonus if you have a busy schedule.

1. Refrigerating
   • If you plan to eat leftovers within two days, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Place a small sheet of parchment or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
2. Freezing
   • For longer storage, transfer the cooked French toast to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to two months.
   • A tip is to lay the pieces flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them individually for about an hour before packing them together. This prevents them from clumping.
3. Reheating
   • To reheat from the fridge: Pop them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds per piece, or warm them in a low oven (around 300°F) until heated through.
   • To reheat from frozen: You can thaw them overnight in the fridge and then warm them in the oven, or microwave directly from frozen.
   • For crispness, a toaster oven or conventional oven is best, since the microwave can sometimes make French toast a bit soggy.

Having these ready-to-go slices makes school mornings a lot simpler. My kids love grabbing them on their way out the door. Sometimes they’ll even eat them at room temperature, like a little breakfast sandwich!

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Additional Breakfast Ideas

If you love starting your day with something comforting and delicious, here are a few other breakfast recipes that might tickle your taste buds:

1. Croissant Toast Breakfast Recipe
   • For a fun twist, you can try my Croissant Toast Breakfast Recipe. Croissants soak up flavors in a wonderful way, just like these Hawaiian rolls.
2. Mini Pancakes
   • Sometimes you’re just in the mood for bite-sized pancakes, and my Mini Pancakes recipe is perfect for busy mornings or for serving to little ones who love having snacks they can pop in their mouth.
3. Scrambled Pancakes
   • Yes, you read that right! Scrambled Pancakes are a quirky dish that turns traditional pancakes into something new and surprising.
4. Cracker Barrel Pancake Recipe
   • If you ever yearn for the comforting flavors from a down-home breakfast, take a peek at my Cracker Barrel Pancake Recipe. You can recreate that classic taste without leaving your kitchen.
5. Sourdough French Toast
   • For a slightly tangy spin, my Sourdough French Toast: A Cozy Brunch Tradition might become your new weekend favorite.

Breakfast is such a personal meal. Everyone seems to have a different preference—some love savory eggs and bacon, others gravitate toward sweeter fare. Feel free to adapt these recipes to suit your own palate.

If you’d like to learn more about different breakfast breads, King Arthur Baking’s Bread Techniques are packed with helpful insights. You’ll discover how bread can differ in texture, flavor, and density, all of which influence how it behaves in a French toast recipe.

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A Note on Ingredient Quality

As you explore various twists on Hawaiian Roll French Toast, remember that good-quality eggs and dairy can make a big difference in flavor. I also pay attention to the kind of cinnamon and nutmeg I use, preferring freshly ground spices whenever possible. If you’d like to read more about the benefits of whole spices vs. pre-ground, the Bon Appétit article on Spices 101 has some wonderful pointers.

Hawaiian rolls themselves are quite forgiving, so even if you use store-brand options, you’ll still end up with a delectable meal. Don’t stress about getting the fanciest version of everything. A cozy brunch is mostly about sharing time and conversation with the people you love.

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Pairing Ideas for Different Occasions

If you want to make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast shine in a more formal brunch or holiday gathering, here are a few suggestions to round out the menu:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   • A vibrant salad with watermelon, pineapple, grapes, and strawberries can brighten any table. This rainbow of colors looks appealing next to the golden-brown French toast.
2. Sparkling Mimosa or Fresh OJ
   • A light spritzer or a glass of fresh orange juice can add a refreshing touch. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even have a “make-your-own-mimosa” station.
3. Hash Browns or Breakfast Potatoes
   • Some folks crave a savory side dish to balance sweet items. Crispy potatoes with onions or peppers can complement your French toast nicely.
4. Greek Yogurt Parfaits
   • Layer yogurt with granola and berries in clear cups. This offers a healthier contrast for guests who want something lighter.

If you’re feeding a crowd, consider setting up a buffet station. Keep the French toast in a chafing dish or a slow cooker set to warm. Have all your toppings and sides in labeled dishes. It’s a fun, interactive way for everyone to customize their plates, and it saves you the trouble of serving each person individually.

For more meal-planning tips, you can browse the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website. They offer advice on balanced eating and creative meal ideas that can help you plan a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a breakfast dish made by dipping sweet Hawaiian rolls into a mixture of eggs, milk, spices, and vanilla. Each roll is then cooked on a griddle or in a skillet until it’s golden on the outside and tender on the inside. The sweet, subtle flavor of Hawaiian rolls makes this recipe stand out.

How do you make French toast with Hawaiian rolls?

You simply whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings, then dip each Hawaiian roll in that mixture before cooking them on a hot, buttered pan. They take only a couple of minutes per side, and then you can serve them warm with syrup or other toppings.

Can you use Hawaiian sweet rolls for French toast?

Absolutely! Hawaiian sweet rolls, such as King’s Hawaiian, are a delightful choice because of their fluffy texture and subtly sweet taste. They soak up the egg mixture well while keeping their shape, resulting in a soft interior and crispy exterior.

What toppings go well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

There are countless options! Popular choices include maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, powdered sugar, and chocolate chips. You can also get creative with caramelized bananas, fruit compotes, or even savory toppings like bacon.

How do you prevent Hawaiian Roll French Toast from becoming soggy?

A quick dip in the egg mixture is the key. Hawaiian rolls absorb liquid quickly, so avoid soaking them for too long. Cook them on medium heat so they develop a crisp exterior. If you notice they’re getting too soft, reduce the dipping time.

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Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a simple and satisfying way to start your day. The rolls are light and sweet, making them the perfect canvas for a classic French toast custard. Whether you’re planning a quiet morning at home or hosting a bustling brunch, this recipe brings comfort and flavor without a ton of fuss. Plus, it’s a fun twist on a timeless breakfast staple.

I hope you’ll give it a try soon. If you do, let me know how it turns out—did you top it with fresh fruit, a drizzle of syrup, or something more adventurous? Share your thoughts in the comments, and feel free to pass this recipe along to friends or family who might appreciate a new breakfast idea. You can also check out some of my other breakfast favorites if you’re in the mood for variety. Here’s to a sweet and cozy morning!