Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on the traditional breakfast favorite. The soft and subtly sweet Hawaiian rolls soak up the rich, spiced custard mixture perfectly, creating a breakfast treat that is golden, fluffy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking to elevate your weekend brunch or whip up a quick weekday breakfast, this recipe has you covered.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—most of which are pantry staples—you can create a decadent meal in no time. The rolls’ sweet flavor complements the cinnamon and vanilla in the batter, and when paired with syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream, it’s simply irresistible.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Hawaiian Roll French Toast comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Unique Flavor: The sweetness of the rolls adds a special touch that elevates traditional French toast.
- Customizable: Add toppings like powdered sugar, berries, or chocolate chips to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting breakfast.
- Perfect for Brunch: Impress guests with a unique, crowd-pleasing dish.
This recipe’s combination of soft, pillowy rolls and a rich, cinnamon-spiced batter ensures every bite is as delicious as the last.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit
Equipment Used
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined.
- Slice the Rolls:
- Cut each Hawaiian roll in half horizontally.
- Soak the Rolls:
- Dip each roll half into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let it soak for 10-15 seconds per side.
- Heat the Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
- Cook the French Toast:
- Place the soaked rolls on the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary, adding more butter as needed.
- Serve Warm:
- Remove from heat and serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320 per serving (2 roll halves)
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 220mg
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Add chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkle over the rolls before cooking.
- Savory Twist: Use less sugar in the batter and top with bacon or sautéed spinach.
- Stuffed French Toast: Add a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between the roll halves before dipping in the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
A: Yes, but the unique sweetness of Hawaiian rolls adds a special touch to this recipe.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Assemble and cook the French toast fresh for the best texture.
Q: How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy?
A: Avoid oversoaking the rolls in the batter. A quick dip is sufficient to coat them without making them too soft.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Use day-old Hawaiian rolls for better absorption without becoming overly soggy.
- Keep cooked French toast warm in the oven at 200°F (93°C) while preparing the rest.
- Experiment with flavored syrups like caramel or coconut for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a dollop of whipped cream for a classic presentation.
- Pair with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, for a refreshing balance.
- Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links for a hearty breakfast spread.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg optional
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter for cooking
- Optional toppings: maple syrup powdered sugar, fresh fruit
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined.
Slice the Rolls:
- Cut each Hawaiian roll in half horizontally.
Soak the Rolls:
- Dip each roll half into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated. Let it soak for 10-15 seconds per side.
Heat the Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
Cook the French Toast:
- Place the soaked rolls on the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary, adding more butter as needed.
Serve Warm:
- Remove from heat and serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Notes
Keep cooked French toast warm in the oven at 200°F (93°C) while preparing the rest.