Hawaiian Roll French Toast

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If you’re looking for a simple yet luxurious breakfast or brunch recipe, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a must-try! With its buttery, slightly sweet rolls soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard and pan-fried to golden perfection, this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
  • Deliciously Sweet & Buttery – The Hawaiian rolls add a unique flavor that takes traditional French toast to the next level.
  • Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – A fun and tasty way to switch up your breakfast routine.
  • Customizable – Load it up with toppings like fresh berries, maple syrup, or even chocolate chips.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is great for:

  • Families looking for a fun and delicious breakfast.
  • Brunch lovers who enjoy an indulgent yet easy-to-make dish.
  • Meal preppers who want to make ahead and reheat throughout the week.
  • Holiday hosts looking for a special breakfast option that doesn’t take hours to prepare.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 package Hawaiian rolls
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tbsp butter (for cooking)

Optional Toppings:

  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, bananas, blueberries)
  • Whipped cream
  • Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
  • Chocolate chips

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Knife (if slicing rolls individually)
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

2. Soak the Hawaiian Rolls

Slice the Hawaiian rolls into individual pieces, or leave them connected for a pull-apart style. Dip each roll (or the entire slab) into the egg mixture, soaking for about 30 seconds per side. Let any excess mixture drip off before cooking.

3. Cook the French Toast

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1–2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt.

Place the soaked rolls in the skillet, leaving space between each piece. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Add more butter as needed.

4. Serve

Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate and top with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

Tips & Tricks

  • For Extra Crispiness: Let the dipped rolls rest on a wire rack for a minute before placing them in the pan.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of whole milk.
  • Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Cook the French toast ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or on a skillet for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Flash-freeze the cooked French toast on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 2 months.

Reheating

  • Skillet: Heat over medium-low heat with a bit of butter.
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
  • Toaster Oven: Toast on a medium setting until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Not recommended as it can make the toast soggy.

Food & Drink Pairings

  • Drinks: Serve with hot coffee, a latte, or a cold glass of orange juice.
  • Sides: Pair with crispy bacon, sausage, or a simple fruit salad for a well-balanced breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

Yes! Brioche, challah, or Texas toast are great substitutes, though you’ll miss the signature sweetness of Hawaiian rolls.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the French toast and store it in the fridge for easy reheating. Alternatively, you can soak the rolls overnight and cook them fresh in the morning.

How do I prevent the French toast from being soggy?

Be sure not to oversoak the rolls. Let the excess mixture drip off before cooking, and always use medium heat to allow the toast to cook evenly.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Place the soaked rolls in a single layer in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and crispy, making it a must-try for any breakfast or brunch lover. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.

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