Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe for Easy Breakfast

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, comforting aroma of breakfast wafting through the house on a lazy weekend morning. As I stood by the stove, the first crackle and sizzle of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast hitting the hot skillet filled me with anticipation. Inspired by the delightful softness of Hawaiian rolls, this recipe transforms a simple breakfast into an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist. Imagine fluffy, golden slices soaked in a luscious cinnamon-vanilla custard, crisped to perfection and bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re looking to impress brunch guests or simply want to treat yourself to something special, this easy breakfast recipe stands out as a delicious alternative to the usual fast-food fare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up a dish that feels fancy yet comes together in no time. So, let’s dive into this delectable Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe and elevate your morning routine!

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast Special?

Deliciously indulgent: This Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe for Easy Breakfast elevates your morning with rich, sweet flavors that will make every bite delightful.
Quick preparation: With simple steps and just a few ingredients, breakfast can be ready in no time, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous brunches.
Impressively versatile: Experiment with flavors and toppings such as fresh fruits, nuts, or even a sprinkle of chocolate for a personalized touch that suits everyone's taste.
Comfort food at its best: Imagine that crispy exterior meeting that custardy interior – it’s a treat that brings warmth and joy on any day.
Family favorite: Children and adults alike will adore this fun twist on classic French toast, making it a hit at your breakfast table.
For a great accompaniment, consider serving it with sides like crispy bacon or fresh fruit for a balanced, charming meal!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

• The key to this tasty breakfast masterpiece lies in its simple yet delightful ingredients.

For the Custard Mixture

Hawaiian Rolls – The star of the recipe, these rolls provide sweetness and a soft texture; opt for King's Hawaiian Rolls for the best flavor.
Eggs – Essential for the custard base, providing structure; swap for a vegan egg replacer if needed.
Half and Half – Adds delicious creaminess to the custard; can substitute with whole milk or a mix of milk and cream.
Vanilla Extract – Intensifies flavor and sweetness; no substitutions recommended for a rich taste.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; use freshly ground for optimal flavor.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens and deepens the custard flavor; white sugar can work in a pinch but lacks caramel nuances.
Salt – Balances out the sweetness in the custard; kosher salt is preferred for its texture.

Enjoy creating your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe for Easy Breakfast that’s sure to become a loved addition to your morning routine!

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, whisk eggs and half and half together until smooth and blended. You’re looking for a creamy consistency that will soak beautifully into the rolls.
Mix Flavors: Gently fold in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. This mixture should be fragrant and inviting, filling your kitchen with warm, sweet aromas.
Prep the Rolls: Carefully poke holes in the Hawaiian rolls to allow for better custard absorption. This step is essential to achieving that deliciously creamy interior.
Soak the Rolls: Briefly soak each roll in the custard mixture for about 30 seconds on each side. Be mindful not to over-soak, as you want them saturated but not mushy.
Heat the Skillet: Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Wait for the butter to foam and gently bubble—this is your cue to get cooking!
Cook to Perfection: Place the soaked rolls in the skillet, cooking for 30-60 seconds on each side until they are golden brown and crisp. Flip them carefully to keep that lovely shape intact.
Serve Warm: Enjoy your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, garnished with powdered sugar and fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra sweet touch.

Optional: Serve with a side of crispy bacon for a savory contrast.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat in a toaster oven for a crisp finish.
Freezer: Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To regain the original crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven until warm and golden brown.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the custard mixture in advance and soak the rolls the night before, storing them in the fridge overnight for an easy morning prep with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe for easy breakfast.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Customize your breakfast delight with these fun twists that will make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast truly your own!

Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for an aromatic twist. It brings a warmth that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Chocolate Lover's Dream: Stir in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a decadent touch. Imagine rich chocolate mingling with the soft bread, creating an indulgent flavor explosion.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the custard. The added crunch will elevate both texture and richness, making each bite delightful.
Fruit Fiesta: Toss in diced strawberries, blueberries, or bananas directly into the custard. These fresh bursts of flavor add a refreshing twist to each slice.
Dairy-Free: Substitute half and half with coconut milk or any plant-based milk. The slight coconut flavor enhances the Hawaiian vibe and keeps it creamy.
Savory Spin: Try adding a sprinkle of cheese, like mascarpone or cream cheese, between the rolls for a sweet and savory harmony. Who said French toast had to be sweet?
Maple Magic: Drizzle real maple syrup directly into the custard mixture for a richer sweetness. Each bite would be infused with that signature maple flavor.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the custard. This brings a bright, fresh flavor, cutting through the sweetness beautifully and waking up your taste buds!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Don’t Over-Soak: Ensure you soak each roll for just 30 seconds per side. Over-soaking can lead to unwanted mushiness in your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Quality Skillet: Use a high-quality nonstick skillet to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking; preheat it properly for that perfect golden-brown crust.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your custard mixture for a unique twist that elevates the traditional flavors.
Serving Size: For best results, limit to 2-3 rolls per serving to maintain an indulgent experience without feeling heavy.
Perfect Toppings: Experiment with toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruits, or a drizzle of honey to add flavor contrast and make your breakfast visually appealing.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the custard mixture (whisked eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To make your morning routine even smoother, soak the rolls in the custard for about 30 seconds on each side and then refrigerate them overnight (covering the dish tightly will help prevent browning). When you're ready to serve, simply heat butter in a skillet and cook the soaked rolls on medium-low heat until golden brown and crisp, achieving that delicious, indulgent texture while saving time!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Elevate your breakfast experience with the perfect sides that complement the sweet and fluffy indulgence of your French toast.

Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch contrasts beautifully with the sweet custard, making every bite delightfully balanced.
Breakfast Sausage: Add a hearty, savory flavor that pairs effortlessly with the sweetness of the French toast, creating a fulfilling meal.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and melon adds brightness and freshness, enhancing the richness of the French toast.
Maple Syrup: Drizzle a generous amount over the toasted rolls for an extra layer of sweetness that harmonizes perfectly.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it brings a decadent touch to your plate, making this dish feel like a dessert for breakfast.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup adds warmth and complements the sweetness of the dish, perfect for slow, cozy mornings.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, it provides a contrast in texture and adds healthful elements to your breakfast spread.

These thoughtful additions will make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast not just a meal, but a memorable experience for family and friends alike.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use?
For the best flavor in your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, I highly recommend using King's Hawaiian Rolls. Their natural sweetness and soft texture are what make this dish truly special.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a toaster oven for a warm, crispy finish that's almost as good as fresh!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, tightly wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a delightful texture.

What if my custard mixture seems too runny?
If your custard mixture seems too runny, it might be because of the eggs or half and half not being properly blended. Make sure to whisk the eggs and half and half together thoroughly until they form a smooth, creamy consistency. Adding a bit more brown sugar can also help thicken the mixture slightly.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions like dairy allergies, consider using a vegan egg replacer and a non-dairy milk alternative instead of half and half. Make sure to check the labels for hidden allergens. For those with nut allergies, be cautious with toppings like nuts, and feel free to skip them entirely!

How can I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast for different tastes?
The more the merrier! Layer in different flavors by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a unique twist. You can also incorporate chocolate chips or fresh berries directly into the custard. And for toppings, think outside the box: whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts make fantastic additions!