Hawaiian Roll French Toast
French toast is a breakfast staple, but have you ever tried making it with Hawaiian rolls? These slightly sweet, ultra-soft rolls take this dish to a whole new level. The result? A fluffy, custard-soaked breakfast delight with a golden, caramelized exterior.
One of the best things about using Hawaiian rolls is their natural sweetness. You don’t need as much sugar in the batter because the rolls bring their own subtle honey flavor. Plus, they absorb the egg mixture beautifully, creating a soft and pillowy texture in every bite.
Perfect for weekend brunch or a special occasion, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast will impress family and guests alike. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings when you want something indulgent without too much effort.
Pair it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for the ultimate breakfast experience. Whether you’re making this for a cozy morning in or a big brunch spread, you’ll love how these rolls transform classic French toast into something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Great for Brunch: Impress your guests with a unique and delicious twist on traditional French toast.
- Naturally Sweet: The Hawaiian rolls add a built-in sweetness, so you can use less sugar in the batter.
- Versatile: Easily customize with different toppings, fillings, and flavors to suit your preferences.
Perfect Pairings
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or caramelized peaches add a burst of freshness and balance the sweetness. If you’re feeling indulgent, try a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm Nutella.
For a savory contrast, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage. The saltiness of the meat complements the sweet, buttery richness of the French toast beautifully. And of course, don’t forget a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing mimosa to round out your brunch!
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Use day-old Hawaiian rolls for the best texture. Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- Don’t let the rolls sit in the egg mixture for too long. A quick dip is enough to coat them without making them overly soft.
- Cook over medium heat to ensure a golden-brown crust without burning.
- For extra decadence, try stuffing the rolls with cream cheese, peanut butter, or jam before dipping them in the batter.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Ingredients
- 1 package 12 count Hawaiian rolls, separated
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter for cooking
- Maple syrup powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter.
- Dip each Hawaiian roll into the egg mixture, coating all sides but not soaking them too much.
- Place the dipped rolls onto the hot skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Transfer to a plate and serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
Variations & Alternatives
- Coconut Lovers: Replace the milk with coconut milk and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top.
- Chocolate Delight: Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle with chocolate syrup.
- Savory Twist: Skip the cinnamon and sugar, and serve with a fried egg and avocado for a sweet-and-savory breakfast.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add a pinch of pumpkin spice to the batter for a cozy fall-inspired version.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. The cooked French toast can also be reheated in a toaster oven or skillet for a crispy texture.
Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Arrange the dipped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap out the milk for almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the perfect way to start your day with something deliciously different. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch or just want to treat yourself, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
