Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

If you’re searching for a brunch centerpiece that combines a touch of nostalgia, an irresistible fluffy texture, and just the right amount of sweetness, look no further than this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe. Each pillowy bite features the signature soft sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls, soaked in rich vanilla-cinnamon custard and griddled to golden perfection. The result is a show-stopping breakfast or brunch that feels both familiar and elevated—a true crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to vanish in minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient works in harmony to create pure breakfast bliss. There’s nothing fancy here, just classic staples and one utterly essential bakery shortcut that turns this into something unforgettable.

• King’s Hawaiian rolls: These fluffy, sweet rolls are the true star—if you can find the name brand, it really sets this dish apart with that signature island-inspired flavor.
• Large eggs: Four of them build a lush, custardy base that envelops every inch of the bread for a classic French toast foundation.
• Milk: One cup creates a creamy, tender custard; whole milk is ideal for richness, but 2% or a dairy-free option can work beautifully, too.
• Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon brings fragrant, cozy warmth that fills your kitchen and amplifies the sweetness in the rolls.
• Cinnamon: A quarter teaspoon infuses the custard with a gentle spice kick—truly the soul of French toast.
• Salt: Just a pinch (don’t skip it!) brightens every flavor note and keeps the sweetness perfectly in check.
• Butter: For cooking—this is non-negotiable! Butter creates a beautifully caramelized, golden exterior and an irresistibly rich flavor.
• Maple syrup: For serving, of course; a generous drizzle brings everything together and adds that final luxurious, sticky-sweet touch.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Rolls

Start by gently pulling apart the King’s Hawaiian rolls, keeping each one intact—don’t slice them down the middle like sandwich rolls; you want those fluffy buns whole. Using slightly stale rolls (about a day or two old) works best because they’ll soak up the custard perfectly without turning mushy. If your rolls are super fresh, just leave them out, uncovered, for about an hour before you begin.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a medium mixing bowl, crack in your large eggs and whisk them until homogenous. Add in the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, fragrant, golden custard base. The vanilla and cinnamon will make your kitchen smell beyond incredible already—promise!

Step 3: Soak the Rolls

One at a time, dip each individual Hawaiian roll into the custard mixture. Gently turn them, making sure every surface is lightly coated but not oversaturated—aim for about 10 seconds each. If they’re left in too long, they’ll fall apart, so a gentle dunk is key for the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe texture. Place the soaked rolls on a tray or plate while you prepare the others.

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat, then add a generous knob of butter (about a tablespoon). Once it’s melted and sizzling, place the soaked rolls onto the skillet. Cook them for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning once, until every surface is deeply golden brown and the edges are slightly crisp. You might need to cook them in batches, adding a little more butter each time.

Step 5: Serve (and Savor!)

Transfer those warm, golden Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites onto a serving platter. Drizzle with maple syrup right away so it seeps into all the nooks and crannies, and add your favorite toppings. Don’t wait—these are best enjoyed hot off the skillet, when the custard is just-set and the exteriors are irresistibly toasty.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Garnishes

This dish just begs for a flourish of extra toppings. Classic favorites include a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness, or a dollop of softly whipped cream for that brunch-worthy finish. If you’re feeling tropical, sprinkle on toasted coconut flakes or sliced bananas to echo the island vibes of the original rolls.

Side Dishes

The richness of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Try a vibrant fruit salad, crisp bacon or sausage, or even a refreshing orange juice mimosa for a sunny touch. If you want to lean into the island theme, a pineapple-citrus salad or tangy Greek yogurt are wonderful accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe into a family-style platter by arranging the golden rolls in a wreath or a fun shape for a special brunch. Or, serve them in individual ramekins for an elegant touch—layer with fruit, syrup, and whipped cream for a deconstructed trifle effect. For a party or special gathering, skewer each roll onto sticks for French toast “pops” that are guaranteed to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If (and this is a big “if”!) you find yourself with leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast, let it cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. Store the rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Layer with parchment between them to keep the bread from sticking together.

Freezing

French toast freezes surprisingly well! Place cooled Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They’ll stay fresh for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy again, follow the reheating steps below.

Reheating

To restore that irresistible surface crispness, reheat the rolls in a 350°F oven for about 7–10 minutes, or in an air fryer for 3–4 minutes. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may soften the texture. Top with fresh butter and maple syrup to bring back the just-made magic of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.

FAQs

Can I prep Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe the night before?

Absolutely! You can whisk the custard and prep the rolls in advance, keeping everything covered in the fridge. For extra convenience, soak the rolls the night before and lay them out on a baking sheet, then simply cook them fresh in the morning for a stress-free brunch.

Do I have to use King’s Hawaiian brand, or can I use a similar roll?

While any sweet, soft dinner roll will technically work, there’s just something special about the King’s Hawaiian brand—the texture, hint of pineapple sweetness, and signature fluffiness are unmatched. If it’s available, it’s absolutely worth it for an authentic Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe experience!

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the milk for your preferred non-dairy beverage, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a plant-based butter for griddling. The rolls themselves are dairy-free, but always check ingredient labels for any dietary concerns.

Why do my rolls get soggy when soaked?

This usually happens if the rolls are too fresh or soak too long. Use slightly stale rolls and give each a quick dip—just enough to coat the surface. This keeps them gloriously custardy inside, not wet or mushy.

What other toppings can I add besides maple syrup?

The possibilities are endless! Try fruit compote, lemon curd, chocolate or caramel sauce, crushed nuts, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert version of this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe has become a modern brunch classic: it’s incredibly easy, instantly comforting, and delivers a wow-factor with every fluffy, golden bite. I encourage you to try this at your next breakfast or brunch gathering—the smiles and second helpings will say it all!

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