Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Have you ever thought about how a simple ingredient can transform your breakfast routine? Hawaiian Roll French Toast does just that by turning soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls into a delightful morning treat. This recipe challenges the traditional notion of French toast, offering a unique flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and innovative. Did you know that breakfast foods have seen a 25% increase in popularity on social media platforms? This trend highlights the growing interest in creative breakfast recipes like Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious dish at home!
Ingredients List
To create your Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: The star of the dish, providing a sweet and fluffy base.
- 4 large eggs: Essential for binding and creating a rich custard.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess; you can use whole, almond, or oat milk.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor with a sweet aroma.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the dish.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.
Toppings (Optional):
- Powdered sugar: For a sweet finishing touch.
- Maple syrup: A classic accompaniment.
- Fresh berries: Adds a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped cream: For an indulgent touch.
Substitution Suggestions:
- Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.
- Milk: Substitute with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Begin by slicing the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. You can keep them connected for a fun pull-apart style or separate them for individual servings.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This custard will infuse the rolls with flavor and moisture.
Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of orange juice or a hint of nutmeg to the custard mixture.
Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Dip each half of the Hawaiian roll into the custard mixture, ensuring they are well-coated but not overly soggy. Let them soak for about 30 seconds on each side.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or oil. Once hot, place the soaked rolls cut-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Tip: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, transfer the French toast to a serving platter. Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh berries or whipped cream as desired.

Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (2 halves of Hawaiian Roll French Toast):
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 250 |
Total Fat | 10g |
Saturated Fat | 4g |
Carbohydrates | 36g |
Sugars | 12g |
Fiber | 1g |
Protein | 6g |
Data Insight:
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein, making it a satisfying breakfast option.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast a bit healthier, consider these modifications:
- Reduce Sugar: Cut down on the amount of powdered sugar or syrup used.
- Whole Wheat Rolls: Substitute Hawaiian rolls with whole wheat or oat rolls for added fiber.
- Fruit Toppings: Use fresh fruit instead of syrup for a natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These Hawaiian Roll French Toast slices can be served in various creative ways:
- Brunch Buffet: Perfect for gatherings; serve with a variety of toppings and sides.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Add a slice of ham or crispy bacon between two halves for a savory twist.
- Dessert Option: Serve with ice cream and chocolate sauce for a decadent dessert.
Personal Tip: Pair with a tropical smoothie or a refreshing fruit salad for a complete breakfast experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Over-soaking the Rolls: Ensure you soak the rolls just long enough to absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
- Not Preheating the Pan: A hot skillet is essential for achieving a golden-brown crust. Preheat before adding the rolls.
- Using Stale Rolls: Fresh rolls work best, but if using stale ones, let them sit in the custard longer to soften.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast stays fresh and delicious:
- Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked French toast slices between layers of parchment paper for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Conclusion
In summary, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. With its sweet flavor and fluffy texture, it’s a perfect choice for any morning or brunch gathering. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments section, and subscribe for more delicious updates!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls the night before. Cook them fresh in the morning for the best texture.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer for a vegan option.
How do I make the French toast crispy?
Ensure your skillet is hot enough before cooking the rolls and don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain crispiness.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: Soft and sweet, perfect for French toast.
- 4 large eggs: Provides richness and structure.
- 1 cup milk: Adds creaminess (whole, almond, or oat milk).
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness.
Instructions
- Prepare the Rolls: Slice Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally.
- Make the Custard Mixture: Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
- Soak the Rolls: Dip each roll half into the custard, soaking for 30 seconds per side.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat a skillet, add butter, and cook soaked rolls for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with syrup, and add toppings as desired.