Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Sweet and fluffy Hawaiian Roll French Toast makes weekend mornings feel special with hardly any extra effort. This recipe transforms soft Hawaiian rolls into golden breakfast perfection that is crunchy on the outside and tender inside. Whether you are cooking for family brunch or treating yourself on a quiet day in, this cozy dish hits all the right notes and is ready in under half an hour.

I fell in love with this after making it for a last-minute Sunday brunch. My family devoured it before I could snap a photo and begged me to make it again the next weekend.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Hawaiian rolls: Soft and sweet these are the secret to a perfect custardy French toast Pick fresh bakery ones for maximum fluff
• Large eggs: Provide structure and richness use farm fresh eggs for the best taste
• Whole milk: Ensures the custard blends smoothly and makes for moist French toast full fat milk works best
• Heavy cream: Adds extra softness and luxury if possible use locally produced cream
• Vanilla extract: Brings out warm aroma and familiar comforting notes make sure it is real vanilla and not artificial
• Ground cinnamon: Offers gentle spice and warmth look for fresh fragrant cinnamon
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard slightly a high-quality sugar enhances flavor
• Butter: For frying adds a golden crisp on the outside use real butter not margarine
• Powdered sugar: For dusting provides a pretty finish choose ultra-fine for the best look
• Maple syrup: Optional for serving adds rich and earthy sweetness use pure maple syrup if available

How to Make It

Prepare the Egg Mixture:

In a medium mixing bowl whisk together the eggs milk heavy cream vanilla cinnamon and sugar until the mixture is fully combined and smooth This creates the custard that infuses every roll

Slice the Rolls:

Using a serrated knife gently cut the entire package of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally You should have one top layer and one bottom layer Try to keep each layer intact for even toasting

Dip the Rolls:

Warm your skillet or griddle over medium heat and add enough butter to coat the bottom well Working in batches dip each roll half into the egg mixture so both cut and rounded sides are coated but do not let them soak too long as they may fall apart

Cook the Rolls:

Place the coated rolls in the hot skillet and cook for two to three minutes per side When the surfaces turn deep golden and the edges barely crisp they are ready Use tongs for easy flipping

Serve Immediately:

Arrange the warm rolls on your favorite plate Sprinkle all over with powdered sugar and if you like drizzle with maple syrup Enjoy immediately while they are still soft inside and crisp outside

The cinnamon in this recipe always reminds me of Sunday mornings with my grandmother She would swirl extra cinnamon into the batter and we would sneak bites straight from the pan while laughing over the sizzling sounds

Flavor Boosters

For fresh flavor, add a splash of orange zest or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard. You can layer cream cheese and fresh fruit for a decadent twist, or use whipped cream and berries for extra brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with mixed berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream. For special occasions, try layering with cream cheese and fruit in between the roll halves for a stacked breakfast treat.

Creative Twists

Substitute Hawaiian rolls with brioche or challah for a similar effect. In spring add lemon zest, in fall use pumpkin pie spice. During holidays top with spiced nuts or cranberry compote for festive flair.

Enjoy this sweet twist on classic French toast for quick comfort or a festive breakfast. The pillowy texture and warm cinnamon always win rave reviews.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, while Hawaiian rolls provide a uniquely sweet and fluffy texture, you can substitute with brioche or challah for similar results.

→ Should the rolls be fresh or stale?

Day-old or slightly stale Hawaiian rolls work best as they soak up the custard without becoming too soggy.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the custard in advance and assemble right before cooking.

→ What toppings pair well?

Classic options include powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

→ Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, use your preferred plant-based milk and cream alternatives, plus dairy-free butter for frying.