Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a tropical-inspired twist on a breakfast classic. Made with sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard and cooked to golden perfection, this easy and indulgent dish is perfect for brunch, holidays, or weekend mornings with family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Uses soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls for an irresistible flavor and texture.
• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
• Great for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
• Pairs perfectly with fresh fruit, syrup, or whipped cream.
• Kid-friendly and loved by adults too.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Hawaiian sweet rolls
• Eggs
• Milk or half-and-half
• Ground cinnamon
• Vanilla extract
• Butter (for cooking)
• Powdered sugar, syrup, or fresh fruit (optional toppings)

Directions

1. Separate the Hawaiian rolls and cut each roll in half, or leave them whole for mini French toast bites.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Dip each roll in the egg mixture, coating all sides well.
5. Place the soaked rolls on the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.
7. Serve warm with powdered sugar, syrup, fruit, or your favorite toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 people
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Stuffed French Toast: Fill rolls with cream cheese or Nutella before dipping.
• Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut to the egg mixture for tropical flair.
• Caramel Banana: Top with caramel sauce and sliced bananas.
• Savory Twist: Reduce cinnamon and add a pinch of salt and cheese for a savory version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked rolls in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard and soak the rolls in advance, then cook them when ready.

Do I have to use Hawaiian rolls?

They add a special sweetness, but you can substitute with brioche, challah, or dinner rolls.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, place the soaked rolls in a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

What milk works best?

Whole milk or half-and-half provides a richer flavor, but any milk will work.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely. Almond, oat, or soy milk are all good options.

How do I prevent soggy French toast?

Don’t over-soak the rolls, and make sure your skillet is hot before cooking.

Can I add sugar to the egg mixture?

Yes, a tablespoon of sugar can enhance the sweetness if desired.

What toppings go best with this?

Maple syrup, whipped cream, berries, and powdered sugar are all delicious choices.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the sweetness and soft texture of the rolls.

Can I make a large batch for a crowd?

Yes, use a large griddle or bake them in a dish to feed more people easily.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a simple yet decadent dish that transforms humble rolls into a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat. With just a few ingredients and endless topping possibilities, it’s perfect for leisurely weekend mornings or impressing guests at brunch. Try it once, and it just might become your new breakfast favorite!

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