Imagine waking up on a lazy weekend morning, the sun streaming in through the windows, and the comforting smell of French toast sizzling on the griddle. But wait—this isn’t just any French toast. You’re about to indulge in Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a soft, sweet, and indulgent twist on the classic breakfast favorite. The fluffy, buttery texture of Hawaiian rolls soaked in a rich, cinnamon-spiced egg batter and cooked to perfection is something you’ve got to experience.
Whether you’re looking to create a special breakfast for your family, treat yourself to a delicious brunch, or impress your friends at a weekend gathering, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is the perfect choice. The best part? It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and delivers a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about making the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast—from the ingredients you need, to step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect results, and even some fun topping ideas. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Why Hawaiian Rolls Make the Best French Toast
French toast has always been a beloved breakfast dish, but there’s something magical about using Hawaiian rolls to elevate it to a whole new level. These sweet, soft rolls have a unique flavor and texture that make them ideal for soaking in a rich, custard-like batter. Unlike traditional bread, which can sometimes turn too dry or chewy, Hawaiian rolls are inherently soft and moist, giving you a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth experience when fried.
When you dip these rolls into a sweet egg mixture infused with cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of salt, they soak up just the right amount of flavor without becoming soggy. The result? A crispy, golden exterior with a soft, flavorful interior that makes every bite a little taste of heaven.
So, why settle for ordinary French toast when you can make something extraordinary with the sweetness of Hawaiian rolls?
What You Need to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Before you get started, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Don’t worry—you won’t need any fancy or hard-to-find items. These ingredients are simple, easy to find, and probably already in your kitchen!
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Rolls | 6-8 rolls | These soft, sweet rolls are key to the flavor and texture of this recipe. |
| Eggs | 3 large | The base for the custard mixture, giving the toast its rich texture. |
| Milk | 1 cup | Whole milk works best for richness, but you can also use almond or oat milk. |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Adds a warm, aromatic sweetness. |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | For that signature French toast flavor. |
| Salt | 1 pinch | To enhance the sweetness of the custard. |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | For frying the French toast to golden perfection. |
| Maple Syrup or Toppings | As desired | For serving—classic maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or powdered sugar are all great options. |
Optional Add-ins and Variations
To make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast even more decadent, consider these optional ingredients:
- Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, top your French toast with toasted coconut flakes.
- Mascarpone or Cream Cheese: Spread some between slices for a creamy, indulgent filling.
- Nutmeg: Add a pinch to the custard mixture for extra depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! The process is simple, but a few tips can make a big difference in getting that perfectly crispy, golden French toast you’ll love.
Step 1: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls
- Slice the Rolls: Start by slicing your Hawaiian rolls into thick pieces, about 1-inch thick. You can cut them into halves or quarters if you prefer smaller pieces. The thickness of the slices is important because thicker slices will absorb more of the custard mixture, resulting in a custard-filled center.
- Optional: If you prefer slightly firmer French toast, you can leave the slices to sit out for about 30 minutes before dipping them. This allows the bread to become a little drier, which can help it hold the custard mixture better.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following ingredients to make the custard base for your French toast:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla Extract
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. The consistency should be liquid enough for the bread to soak but not so watery that it won’t coat the slices properly.
Step 3: Soak the Hawaiian Rolls
- Dip the Bread: One by one, dip each slice of Hawaiian roll into the custard mixture. Make sure both sides of the bread are well-coated, but don’t let the bread soak for too long. About 10-15 seconds per side is perfect. The goal is to absorb just enough custard without making the bread soggy.
- Drain the Excess: After dipping, gently shake off any excess custard before placing the slices on a plate.
Step 4: Fry the French Toast
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add about 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt and sizzle, but not burn.
- Cook the French Toast: Once the butter is hot, carefully place the soaked bread slices in the skillet. You can cook 2-4 slices at a time, depending on the size of your skillet. Fry each slice for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to add a little more butter between batches to ensure each slice cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the French toast is cooked, transfer it to a plate. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and crispy. Add your favorite toppings—whether that’s maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. The options are endless, so get creative!
Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast comes out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
- Use Day-Old Rolls: If you have day-old Hawaiian rolls, use them! They absorb the custard mixture better, giving you a richer, more custardy interior.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the French toast in batches. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to uneven cooking and prevent the bread from crisping up properly.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer your French toast a little sweeter, add more vanilla extract or a teaspoon of sugar to the custard mixture. You can also serve with extra syrup or powdered sugar.
- Crispier French Toast: For extra crispiness, use clarified butter or ghee instead of regular butter. It has a higher smoke point and will give your French toast an even crispier texture.
Toppings and Variations for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
One of the best parts of French toast is the endless variety of toppings you can try. Here are some of our favorites for topping your Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
Classic Toppings
- Maple Syrup: A classic choice that perfectly complements the sweetness of the rolls.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness and color.
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a sweet finishing touch without overpowering the dish.
Creative Toppings
- Whipped Cream: For a decadent touch, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
- Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut adds a tropical flair and extra crunch.
- Nut Butters: Almond butter, peanut butter, or hazelnut spread can be drizzled on top for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: For a chocolate-lover’s twist, sprinkle a few chocolate chips on top or between slices of French toast for a melty, indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information and Healthier Alternatives
While Hawaiian Roll French Toast is undoubtedly delicious, it can also be a bit indulgent. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (two slices of French toast):
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300-350 |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten up the dish without sacrificing flavor, here are some tips:
- Use Almond Milk or Oat Milk: These dairy-free options reduce calories and fat.
- Swap Butter for Olive Oil: For a healthier fat option, use olive oil for frying.
- Skip the Syrup: Use fresh fruit, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for natural sweetness instead of syrup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
While Hawaiian rolls provide a unique sweetness and texture, you can substitute them with brioche, challah, or even a thicker, slightly sweet bread like cinnamon raisin.
How can I make this ahead of time?
To save time, prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls the night before. Store them in the fridge and cook them fresh in the morning. Alternatively, you can make the French toast ahead of time and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Once cooked and cooled, store the French toast slices in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or toaster for a quick breakfast treat.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Now that you have the recipe and all the tips for success, it’s time to enjoy your Hawaiian Roll French Toast! This sweet, indulgent breakfast is sure to impress your family, friends, or anyone lucky enough to join you for a meal. Whether you enjoy it with a drizzle of syrup or topped with fresh fruit, you’ll find yourself savoring every bite.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Hawaiian rolls, whisk up the custard, and start frying up a batch of French toast that’s sure to become a breakfast favorite!Ready to indulge in the sweet, buttery goodness of Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Get started now and create a breakfast everyone will love!
