Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Turn soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls into a decadent breakfast treat with this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe! Each roll is coated in a rich, cinnamon-spiced custard and cooked to golden-brown perfection. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or a quick dessert, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (King’s Hawaiian or similar brand)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or your preferred type)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar (optional)
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls:
- Leave the Hawaiian rolls whole or cut them in half horizontally, depending on your preference (whole rolls make for a fluffier texture, while halved rolls absorb more custard).
2. Make the Custard:
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt until well combined.
3. Dip the Rolls:
- Place the Hawaiian rolls in the custard mixture, turning them gently to coat all sides. Let them soak for about 10-15 seconds per side to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
4. Cook the French Toast:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt.
- Place the soaked rolls into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary, adding more butter as needed.
5. Serve:
- Transfer the cooked rolls to a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh berries or whipped cream. Serve warm!
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Don’t Over-Soak:
- Hawaiian rolls are soft and fluffy, so avoid soaking them in the custard for too long to prevent them from falling apart.
2. Use a Nonstick Skillet or Griddle:
- This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
3. Customize the Flavor:
- Add a dash of orange zest or almond extract to the custard for a fun twist.
4. Keep Warm While Cooking in Batches:
- Place cooked French toast rolls on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven to keep them warm while you finish cooking the rest.
Variations
- Stuffed Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
- Slice the rolls in half and fill them with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit jam before dipping in the custard.
2. Coconut Twist:
- Add shredded coconut to the custard mixture or sprinkle it on top before serving for a tropical vibe.
3. Hawaiian Sweet Roll Casserole:
- Arrange the rolls in a baking dish, pour the custard over them, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes for a baked French toast casserole.
4. Savory Version:
- Skip the sugar and cinnamon in the custard, and serve with bacon or sausage for a sweet-and-savory combo.
Serving Suggestions
- Drinks: Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or a tropical smoothie.
- Toppings: Experiment with caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, or diced pineapple for a Hawaiian-inspired twist.
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a fun and indulgent way to elevate your breakfast or brunch game. Soft, buttery rolls combined with a sweet, spiced custard create a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Enjoy! 🥞🍓🍯
