Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Sweet Breakfast Treat!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is more than just a breakfast; it’s an experience that transforms a simple meal into a luxurious treat. Have you ever wondered how to elevate your morning routine from mundane to truly magnificent? I promise you, this recipe is the answer. Imagine tender, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls, soaked in a rich, vanilla-cinnamon custard, then griddled to golden perfection. The result is an unbelievably soft, custardy interior with a beautifully caramelized exterior – a symphony of textures and flavors that will undoubtedly become a new family favorite.

While French toast itself boasts a fascinating history, dating back to Roman times as a way to utilize stale bread, this particular rendition takes a delightful, modern twist. The unique sweetness and incredibly fluffy texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls are what truly make this dish stand out. People adore this Hawaiian Roll French Toast for its irresistible taste, its comforting warmth, and the sheer joy it brings to the breakfast or brunch table. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy a classic!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (original flavor is my personal favorite for this recipe!)
• 3 large eggs, preferably free-range for a richer color and flavor
• 1 cup half-and-half (you can use whole milk for a slightly lighter texture, but half-and-half truly creates a more luxurious, custardy center)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (the good stuff makes all the difference!)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but I find it adds a wonderful depth and warmth)
• Pinch of fine sea salt (just a tiny bit helps to balance all the sweet flavors)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, for cooking (you might need a little more depending on how many batches you make)

For Serving (Optional but highly recommended for the ultimate experience):

• Powdered sugar, for dusting (a little snow-like finish makes them look so inviting)
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries – a colorful mix is always lovely)
• Maple syrup, warmed (don’t skip warming your syrup, it makes a huge difference!)
• Whipped cream (homemade, if you’re feeling extra fancy!)
• Sliced bananas
• A sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent treat

Prepping the Custard and Rolls

1. Prepare Your Workstation: Before diving in, I always like to get everything ready. First, preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 200°F (95°C). This isn’t for cooking, but to keep your cooked French toast warm while you finish the rest of the batch. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet inside the oven. This setup ensures that the French toast stays slightly crisp and doesn’t get soggy on the bottom while waiting. Next, gently separate your King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. They usually come connected in a sheet, and you want to separate them into individual rolls without tearing them too much. Be gentle, they’re quite delicate!
2. Crafting the Custard Mixture: In a large, shallow bowl – ideally one that’s wide enough to easily dip the rolls – whisk together the 3 large eggs and the 1 cup of half-and-half. I like to whisk vigorously until the eggs are fully combined with the half-and-half, and the mixture is light yellow and uniform. You don’t want any streaks of egg white remaining. This thorough whisking ensures a smooth, even custard that will properly coat your rolls. Once that’s well mixed, whisk in the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg (if using), and that essential pinch of fine sea salt. Continue to whisk until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the sugar has dissolved. This sweet, spiced custard is the heart of your Hawaiian roll French toast, so take your time to mix it well! I often give it an extra 30 seconds of whisking just to be sure everything is beautifully blended.
3. Preparing the Rolls for Soaking: This step is absolutely crucial for ensuring your French toast is perfectly custardy on the inside and not dry. Use a toothpick or a thin skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each King’s Hawaiian roll. I usually aim for about 3-4 holes per roll, distributed evenly. The reason we do this is so the rich, flavorful custard can truly soak deep into the center of the roll, transforming it from a simple bread roll into a soft, melt-in-your-mouth French toast delight. Without these holes, the custard might only penetrate the surface, leaving you with a dry, bready center – and we definitely don’t want that! This simple step makes all the difference.
4. Soaking the Rolls to Perfection: Now comes the moment of truth for the rolls. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding (I usually do 3-4 rolls at a time, depending on the size of my bowl), dip the prepared King’s Hawaiian rolls into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides evenly. The key here is soaking just enough, but not too much. These rolls are incredibly soft, and if you let them soak for too long, they can become overly saturated and fall apart when you try to transfer them to the pan. However, if you don’t soak them enough, they won’t absorb that wonderful eggy, sweet flavor throughout. Thirty seconds per roll, with a gentle turn, is usually perfect to get that beautiful, custardy interior. Once soaked, carefully lift each roll, allowing any excess custard to drip back into the bowl.

Cooking the French Toast

5. Heating the Pan: Place a large non-stick skillet or a griddle over medium-low heat. It’s really important to keep the heat at medium-low. If your pan is too hot, the exterior of the French toast will burn before the inside has a chance to cook through and become delightfully warm and custardy. Once the pan is gently heated, add about half of your unsalted butter (approximately 1 tablespoon). Let the butter melt and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan evenly. The butter adds incredible flavor and helps create that beautiful golden-brown crust.
6. Cooking the French Toast Batches: Carefully place your soaked Hawaiian rolls into the prepared skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Give them a little space so they can cook evenly and you can easily flip them. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and appear cooked through. You’ll notice the distinct aroma of cinnamon and vanilla filling your kitchen! Don’t rush this step; patience will be rewarded with perfectly cooked French toast. Use a wide, flat spatula to gently flip them over to cook the other side. Once cooked, transfer the finished French toast rolls to the wire rack in your preheated oven to keep them warm while you cook the remaining batches. If needed, add the rest of the butter to the pan for subsequent batches, ensuring there’s always a thin layer of melted butter for cooking. Sometimes I even add a tiny bit more if the pan seems dry, as this contributes to the rich flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

7. The Grand Finale: Serving Your Masterpiece: Serve the Hawaiian roll French toast warm, directly from the oven. I promise, they’re at their absolute best when they’re still warm and fluffy. For a classic presentation, dust them generously with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve – it looks like a beautiful dusting of fresh snow. Then, arrange a vibrant medley of fresh berries around them. The slight tartness of the berries provides a fantastic contrast to the sweetness of the rolls. And, of course, no French toast is complete without a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup. I always warm my maple syrup gently in a small saucepan or microwave; it just elevates the whole experience. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a slice of banana would be absolutely divine. These sweet rolls make for an unforgettable breakfast or brunch, and they’re always a huge hit with everyone! They’re fantastic on their own, but these toppings truly make them a special treat. Enjoy watching them disappear quickly!

Tips for French Toast Perfection and Variations

Choosing the Right Rolls:

While you could technically use other brioche-style rolls, King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are truly the star here. Their inherent sweetness, incredibly soft texture, and slightly eggy flavor make them uniquely suited for French toast. They absorb the custard beautifully without becoming overly dense or falling apart, giving you that perfect custardy interior with a slightly crisp, golden exterior.

Custard Consistency is Key:

Ensure your custard mixture is thoroughly whisked. Any unmixed egg whites can lead to an uneven texture. The half-and-half (or whole milk) provides richness and ensures the rolls become wonderfully moist and flavorful. Don’t skip the vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt—these elements create a balanced, aromatic flavor profile that is utterly irresistible.

The Art of Soaking:

As mentioned, the soaking time is critical. Too little, and the center will be dry and bready. Too much, and the rolls become fragile and difficult to handle, potentially turning into a soggy mess. The 30-second guideline, combined with the helpful poke-holes, strikes that perfect balance. Always be gentle when handling the soaked rolls; they’re delicate little treasures at this stage!

Heat Management:

Cooking French toast on medium-low heat is paramount. This allows the heat to gently penetrate the roll, cooking the custard through and caramelizing the exterior to a beautiful golden brown without burning. If the heat is too high, the outside will char before the inside has a chance to warm up and set properly. Don’t be afraid to adjust the heat as you go, lowering it if the rolls seem to be browning too quickly.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:

Cooking in batches ensures that each roll gets enough direct heat and space to brown evenly. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature and lead to steaming rather than searing, resulting in pale, less flavorful French toast. Patience truly pays off!

Keeping Warm Between Batches:

The preheated oven with a wire rack is your best friend. It keeps the first batches warm and slightly crisp while you finish cooking the rest, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy warm French toast at the same time.

Flavor Variations to Explore:

• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to your custard for a bright, refreshing twist.
• Almond Extract: Substitute half a teaspoon of almond extract for half of the vanilla for a different aromatic profile.
• Spiced Up: Increase the cinnamon or add a tiny pinch of cardamom for an even more exotic flavor.
• Sweet Fillings: Once cooked, you could carefully slice a pocket into the French toast and fill it with a dollop of cream cheese mixture (cream cheese, a touch of sugar, and vanilla) or even Nutella for an extra special treat.

Make-Ahead Tips:

While I highly recommend making these fresh, you can prepare the custard mixture a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This saves a step on busy mornings. Simply give it a good whisk before dipping your rolls.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers:

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, I find the best method is to pop them back into a toaster oven or a regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp again. A quick zap in the microwave will warm them, but they won’t have the same delightful texture.

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites are more than just breakfast; they’re a delightful experience, bringing a taste of sunshine and sweetness to any morning. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the delicious culmination of our culinary journey. I genuinely believe this isn’t just another breakfast dish; it’s an experience, a joyous awakening for your taste buds, and absolutely a must-try for anyone who appreciates a truly special meal. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity combined with an unexpected depth of flavor and a wonderfully unique texture. Forget dry, dense French toast; what we create here is a symphony of fluffy, golden-brown perfection, kissed with sweetness and a hint of the tropics from those beloved Hawaiian rolls.

What makes this particular rendition of French toast an absolute triumph is how it masterfully transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Imagine sinking your teeth into a piece that’s unbelievably soft and tender on the inside, with a lightly caramelized exterior that delivers just the right amount of chew. It’s the perfect balance of richness without being overly heavy, making it ideal for a leisurely weekend brunch or even a quick, indulgent weekday treat. Every bite offers that delightful, pillowy sweetness that only comes from using the right foundation – those soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls. This isn’t just about feeding your hunger; it’s about creating a moment of pure comfort and culinary delight right in your own kitchen.

Elevate Your Experience: Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations

While this Hawaiian roll French toast is absolutely divine on its own, I always encourage you to get creative with your toppings and serving styles. For a classic, irresistible presentation, remember that you’ll want to serve the hawaiian roll french toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired. This traditional trio provides a beautiful contrast of sweetness, tartness, and a touch of elegance. But don’t stop there!

Consider a generous dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an extra decadent dessert-for-breakfast vibe. If you’re a chocolate lover, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips can take this dish to a whole new level of indulgence. For fruit fanatics, beyond mixed berries, try thinly sliced bananas, caramelized apples, or even a tropical fruit salsa made with mango and pineapple. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can really amplify that island feel! For those who love a bit of crunch, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even a sprinkle of granola, add a fantastic textural element.

Feeling a little adventurous? How about a savory twist? While it might sound unconventional for French toast, imagine serving these fluffy bites alongside crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage. The sweet and salty combination is surprisingly addictive! You could even experiment with different spices in your custard. A pinch of nutmeg, a dash of cardamom, or a subtle hint of orange zest could introduce intriguing new dimensions to the flavor profile. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; it’s a canvas for your culinary imagination.

So, please, don’t just read about this incredible recipe; make it your own! I promise you, the simple process of taking 1 (12 Pack) king’s hawaiian rolls and infusing them with that rich custard, starting with 3 large eggs in a large bowl where you whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined, then continuing to whisk in the vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until incorporated, is genuinely rewarding. The clever step to use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so the custard can soak in is truly key to its perfection, ensuring every part is soaked through. Then, as you’re working in batches, dip the rolls into the custard mixture and let soak for 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides – you’ll see the magic unfold before your eyes. It’s a straightforward method that yields consistently outstanding results.

I am genuinely excited for you to experience the joy of this Hawaiian roll French toast. Once you’ve made it, tasted it, and shared it, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please, come back and leave a comment to tell me about your experience. What toppings did you choose? Did you try a fun variation? Did your family rave about it? Your feedback and culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to see how you make this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Tender, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls soaked in a rich, vanilla-cinnamon custard, then griddled to golden perfection for an unbelievably soft, custardy interior and caramelized exterior. A delightful sweet breakfast treat!

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
20 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
12 servings

Ingredients

• 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup half-and-half or whole milk
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, for cooking
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Fresh fruit (e.g., berries, sliced bananas), for serving (optional)
• Warm maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 200°F (95°C) with a wire rack on a baking sheet to keep cooked French toast warm. Gently separate the King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls into individual rolls.
2. Step 2
   In a large, shallow bowl, whisk 3 large eggs and 3/4 cup half-and-half (or whole milk) until uniform. Whisk in 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of fine sea salt until fully incorporated.
3. Step 3
   Use a toothpick or thin skewer to poke 3-4 holes in the bottom of each King’s Hawaiian roll. This crucial step ensures the custard soaks deeply into the center.
4. Step 4
   Working in batches, dip the prepared rolls into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30 seconds, turning gently to coat all sides evenly. Carefully lift each roll, allowing any excess custard to drip back into the bowl.
5. Step 5
   Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt. Place soaked rolls in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Transfer finished French toast to the wire rack in the preheated oven to keep warm. Add remaining butter as needed for subsequent batches.
6. Step 6
   Serve the Hawaiian roll French toast warm. Dust generously with powdered sugar, and top with fresh fruit (like berries or sliced bananas) and warm maple syrup, if desired. Enjoy!

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.