Hawaiian Roll French Toast

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French toast has always been a comfort food for me, but turning soft, fluffy Hawaiian rolls into golden, caramelized bites of breakfast joy? That’s next-level. The slightly sweet, pillowy rolls soak up the custard mixture like a dream and develop a crisp exterior while staying unbelievably tender inside. I tried this on a weekend whim, and it quickly became one of my most requested brunch dishes ever.

The thing I love most is how these little squares of deliciousness pair with both sweet and savory toppings. Drizzle some maple syrup and sprinkle chopped nuts or go tropical with pineapple and coconut—it’s a breakfast you’ll crave all week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the kind of morning indulgence that’s worth waking up for.

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Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Irresistibly soft texture: Hawaiian rolls are already fluffy, and when soaked in custard and pan-fried, they turn into custardy clouds with crisp golden edges.
• Quick and easy: Minimal ingredients and just a few steps—perfect for lazy mornings.
• Versatile flavors: The mild sweetness of the rolls makes it easy to customize with fruits, syrups, nuts, or even savory toppings.
• Kid and crowd-friendly: Everyone from toddlers to brunch guests will be raving about it.
• Elegant presentation: Stack them high, drizzle with syrup, and top with herbs or fruit for a stunning breakfast spread.

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What Kind of Bread Works Best for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

The beauty of this dish lies in the unique texture and sweetness of Hawaiian rolls. They’re soft, buttery, and slightly sweet—making them ideal for absorbing the custard without falling apart. Look for the classic King’s Hawaiian rolls or any similar sweet roll. I recommend using day-old rolls because they’re slightly drier and hold their shape better when soaked in the egg mixture. If you only have fresh ones, just pop them in the oven for 5-10 minutes to dry them out a bit before dunking.

While regular white bread or brioche can be used, they won’t give you the same signature flavor. The slightly honeyed taste of Hawaiian rolls adds a layer of richness you can’t quite replicate with other breads.

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Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re adapting for dietary needs or working with what you have on hand, there are plenty of ways to tweak this recipe:

• Dairy-Free: Swap the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Full-fat coconut milk adds a subtle tropical touch that complements the rolls beautifully.
• Egg-Free: Use a mixture of mashed banana and a splash of plant-based milk for a custard-like consistency.
• Gluten-Free: If you find gluten-free sweet rolls, go for it—they’ll work similarly with some care during soaking.
• Sugar-Free: Leave out the added sugar in the custard and sweeten with a little monk fruit or stevia if needed.
• Flavor Boosts: Add cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a bit of nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth and depth.
• Savory Twist: Reduce the sugar and serve with bacon, eggs, or avocado for a fun twist on sweet and savory.

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Ingredients for This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Let’s talk ingredients—each one plays a simple but essential role in creating that perfect French toast experience with a tropical twist.

• Hawaiian Rolls
  These are the stars of the show. Their slightly sweet, buttery flavor and fluffy texture make them perfect for soaking up the custard without turning mushy.
• Eggs
  They create the rich, creamy base for the custard. Eggs help bind the ingredients and give the toast structure while frying.
• Milk
  Whole milk adds creaminess to the egg mixture. You can also use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a richer or lighter version.
• Vanilla Extract
  A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor and brings out the natural sweetness of the rolls.
• Ground Cinnamon
  Just a pinch infuses the French toast with cozy warmth. It’s optional, but I never skip it!
• Butter
  Used for frying, butter adds that golden, crisp edge and deepens the overall flavor.
• Maple Syrup or Honey (for serving)
  The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the toasty rolls, and adds a luscious finish.
• Optional Toppings
  Chopped nuts, diced fruit, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar make it even more delightful.

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Step 1: Prepare the Custard

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and fully combined. This will be your soaking mixture. If you want a slightly richer custard, you can add a tablespoon of sugar or swap some of the milk for cream.

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Step 2: Slice and Dry the Rolls

Separate the Hawaiian rolls and cut each one in half if they’re large, or leave them whole if they’re bite-sized. Slightly stale rolls work best, but if yours are too fresh, toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes to help them firm up a bit.

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Step 3: Soak the Rolls

Dip each piece of roll into the egg mixture, letting it soak for about 15–20 seconds per side. You want them saturated but not falling apart. Allow any excess custard to drip off before moving to the pan.

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Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted and bubbling slightly, place the soaked rolls on the skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until each piece is golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if necessary, adding more butter as needed.

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Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Once all the French toast pieces are beautifully browned, stack them on a plate and drizzle generously with warm maple syrup or honey. Sprinkle with chopped nuts or fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a pop of color. Add fruit or whipped cream if you like—go as simple or as extra as you want.

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How Long to Cook the Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Cooking time is minimal, making this a great choice for busy mornings or lazy brunches. Once the rolls are soaked and ready to go:

• On the stove: Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat, or until golden brown.
• Total cook time per batch: Around 5–6 minutes.
• Prep time (including soaking): About 10 minutes.

You’ll spend about 15–20 minutes total from start to finish, depending on how many rolls you’re cooking at once and the size of your skillet.

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Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Getting the most out of your rolls is all about balance and timing. Here are my go-to tricks:

• Don’t oversoak: Hawaiian rolls are very soft, so let them absorb custard without getting mushy. 15–20 seconds per side is ideal.
• Use a hot skillet but not too hot: Medium heat is your friend. It gives you a golden crust without burning the outside before the inside sets.
• Pre-toast fresh rolls: If your rolls are too soft, toast them briefly in the oven first. This gives them a firmer texture to absorb the custard better.
• Butter matters: Always use real butter, not oil or margarine. It adds richness and gives the French toast that signature browned crust.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Leave space between the rolls so they cook evenly and get that perfect sear on all sides.
• Keep warm in the oven: If making a big batch, place cooked rolls on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven to keep them warm while finishing the rest.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple recipe like Hawaiian Roll French Toast can go sideways if you’re not careful. Keep an eye out for these common slip-ups:

• Soaking too long: These rolls are incredibly soft. Leaving them in the custard too long will turn them to mush and make frying a nightmare.
• Pan too hot: Cranking up the heat might seem like a good way to get a quick crust, but you’ll burn the outside before the inside sets.
• Skipping the pre-toast for fresh rolls: Fresh, super-soft rolls will fall apart unless slightly dried. Don’t skip this crucial step.
• Uneven soaking: Dunking some pieces more than others leads to inconsistent texture—make sure each one gets an even soak.
• Using too little custard: Skimping on the egg-milk mixture means your toast won’t get that rich interior. Don’t be afraid to double up if making a big batch.
• Overcrowding the pan: Too many rolls in the skillet will cause steaming instead of searing. Keep it spacious.
• Not enough butter: Butter gives you that golden crust. Don’t be shy—add more between batches if needed.
• Rushing the flip: Let the rolls sit until a golden crust forms before turning. Flipping too early can tear the toast.

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What to Serve With Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Scrambled or Fried Eggs

Balance out the sweetness with fluffy, buttery eggs for a hearty breakfast combo.

Crispy Bacon or Sausage

The saltiness pairs beautifully with the caramelized edges of the French toast.

Fresh Pineapple Chunks

A tropical fruit match made in heaven—fresh, juicy pineapple enhances the island vibe.

Mixed Berries

Tart strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries bring color and a fresh contrast.

Toasted Coconut Flakes

Sprinkle on top for extra crunch and a tropical flair.

Mango or Papaya Slices

Adds exotic sweetness and keeps everything feeling light and vibrant.

A Cup of Rich Coffee or Latte

The nutty bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the rolls.

Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice or Pineapple Juice

A refreshing sip that ties together all the flavors on the plate.

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Next up in Part 7: how to store leftovers (if there are any!) and what kind of nutrition you’re looking at.

Storage Instructions

If you somehow manage to have leftovers (honestly, rare in my house!), Hawaiian Roll French Toast stores surprisingly well and reheats beautifully.

• Refrigerator:
  Let the cooked French toast cool completely, then store in an airtight container or zip-top bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Freezer:
  Place cooled pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll last up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven or reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
• Reheating Tips:
  Microwave for 30–45 seconds for a quick fix, but for that crisp edge, reheat in a skillet or air fryer for a couple of minutes. Avoid sogginess by not microwaving too long.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate per serving (based on 2 Hawaiian rolls with basic custard and butter, without toppings):

• Calories: ~250–300
• Protein: ~7g
• Fat: ~14g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Sugar: ~8g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Cholesterol: ~100mg
• Sodium: ~200–250mg

These numbers can shift depending on the type of milk, butter, and toppings you use, so tweak accordingly if you’re watching macros.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to keep the rolls from getting soggy?

Use slightly stale rolls or toast them briefly in the oven before soaking. And don’t over-soak—15–20 seconds per side is plenty!

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Can I prep Hawaiian Roll French Toast the night before?

Yes! You can mix the custard and store it in the fridge overnight. You can also soak the rolls and place them in a covered dish to cook fresh the next morning.

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Can I bake instead of pan-frying them?

Definitely. Place soaked rolls in a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes until golden and set. It turns out a bit more like a bread pudding but still delicious.

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Are Hawaiian rolls gluten-free?

Traditional Hawaiian rolls are not gluten-free. However, there are gluten-free sweet rolls on the market that you can try as a substitute.

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What if I don’t have vanilla extract?

You can use almond extract (just a drop!), maple extract, or even a splash of orange zest to add depth of flavor.

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How do I make it more indulgent for brunch guests?

Top it with whipped mascarpone, caramelized bananas, toasted nuts, or even a drizzle of Nutella. Serve with mimosas for extra flair.

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Can I turn this into a casserole-style dish?

Yes! Layer the rolls in a greased baking dish, pour the custard over, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning for a no-fuss brunch.

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Is it possible to make this vegan?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk (like oat or almond), a flax egg or mashed banana instead of real eggs, and cook with plant-based butter. It won’t be exactly the same, but still tasty!

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Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t just a fun twist on a breakfast classic—it’s the kind of dish that makes a regular morning feel like a cozy celebration. With its golden, buttery crust and soft, custardy center, it’s both nostalgic and exciting all at once.

I love how easily it comes together with ingredients you probably already have, and how endlessly customizable it is. Whether you’re dressing it up for brunch guests or keeping it simple with syrup and fruit, this recipe delivers every time. It’s easy, satisfying, and just a little indulgent—the way weekend breakfasts should be.

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