Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Imagine waking up to the smell of buttery, golden-brown French toast sizzling in a pan, the sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon filling the air. Now, picture that French toast made with soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Sounds amazing, right? That’s exactly why we’re here to teach you how to make the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.

Unlike traditional French toast, which is usually made with thick bread slices, using Hawaiian rolls gives a soft, slightly chewy texture with a hint of sweetness that takes this classic breakfast to a whole new level. Whether you’re making a special weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or just want to treat yourself, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why Hawaiian Rolls Make the Best French Toast

Hawaiian rolls are already delicious on their own, but when transformed into French toast, they become next-level amazing. Here’s why:

The Unique Sweetness and Soft Texture of Hawaiian Rolls

Unlike regular bread, Hawaiian rolls have a light, fluffy texture with a touch of sweetness. This makes them perfect for soaking up the rich egg mixture without becoming too dense or soggy.

Comparing Hawaiian Rolls to Other Breads for French Toast

Can You Use Fresh Hawaiian Rolls or Should They Be Stale?

Fresh Hawaiian rolls work great, but slightly stale rolls are even better. A drier roll absorbs more of the egg mixture, resulting in a richer flavor and a crispier texture. If your rolls are too fresh, let them sit out overnight to firm up.

Ingredients for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, you only need a few basic ingredients.

Choosing the Right Type of Hawaiian Rolls

Traditional King’s Hawaiian Rolls are the best choice, but any soft and sweet dinner rolls will work. Just make sure they are slightly stale for better absorption.

The Perfect Egg Mixture: What You Need

The batter is the heart of any good Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe. A blend of eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon creates a rich and flavorful custard that makes each bite delicious.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Want to make your French toast even better? Try adding:

• A splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist
• A sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth
• A tablespoon of melted butter in the batter for richness

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.

Step 1: Prepping the Hawaiian Rolls for Cooking

Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half if you want individual pieces, or keep them whole for a pull-apart style French toast bake.

Step 2: Mixing the Egg Batter for Maximum Flavor

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until fully combined.

Step 3: Soaking and Coating the Rolls Properly

Dip each roll in the egg mixture for 10-15 seconds per side. Hawaiian rolls soak up liquid quickly, so don’t let them sit too long.

Step 4: Cooking the Perfect Golden-Brown French Toast

Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and add butter. Place the soaked rolls onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Soggy French Toast? Reduce soaking time and use slightly stale rolls.
• Eggy Taste? Make sure to whisk the batter thoroughly.
• Burning Too Fast? Lower the heat and cook slower for even browning.

Best Toppings and Variations for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe, let’s talk about toppings and creative variations. The beauty of French toast is that you can make it as simple or extravagant as you like. Whether you prefer classic flavors or something more adventurous, these ideas will take your dish to the next level.

Classic Toppings: Maple Syrup, Butter & Powdered Sugar

Some toppings are timeless for a reason. These simple additions enhance the sweetness and warmth of Hawaiian rolls without overpowering their natural flavor.

• Maple Syrup – The golden, sweet syrup seeps into the fluffy bread, making every bite melt in your mouth.
• Whipped Butter – A small pat of butter adds creaminess and richness.
• Powdered Sugar – A light dusting makes the French toast feel even more special.

Gourmet Toppings: Fresh Fruits, Nuts, and Whipped Cream

Want to elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe? Try these fancy toppings for an indulgent brunch experience.

• Fresh Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a tart contrast to the sweet toast.
• Banana Slices – Pairs perfectly with a drizzle of honey or peanut butter.
• Chopped Nuts – Almonds, pecans, or walnuts add a satisfying crunch.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy, it adds a luxurious touch.
• Caramelized Apples – Sauté apple slices with cinnamon and brown sugar for a warm, comforting topping.

Unique Flavor Twists: Stuffed, Baked, and Caramelized

If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of these fun variations on the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe.

Troubleshooting Common Hawaiian Roll French Toast Problems

Even the best cooks run into problems. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.

Why Is My French Toast Too Soggy?

Soggy French toast happens when the bread soaks up too much liquid or isn’t cooked properly.

• Solution: Use slightly stale Hawaiian rolls instead of fresh ones.
• Solution: Reduce the soaking time to 10–15 seconds per side.
• Solution: Cook on medium heat for a crispier texture.

Why Is My French Toast Too Dry?

Dry French toast lacks enough moisture or hasn’t been soaked long enough.

• Solution: Increase the milk in your batter for a creamier texture.
• Solution: Let the rolls sit in the egg mixture for a few extra seconds.

How to Achieve the Perfect Crispy Outside and Soft Inside

Want that golden-brown, slightly crispy texture while keeping the inside fluffy? Here’s how:

• Use butter – Cooking in butter instead of oil adds crispiness and rich flavor.
• Preheat the pan – Let your pan get hot before adding the toast.
• Don’t overcrowd – Cook in batches to ensure even browning.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Want to make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe restaurant-quality? Follow these expert tips.

Choosing the Right Cooking Temperature

Medium heat is key. Too high, and your toast burns on the outside while staying raw inside. Too low, and it turns soggy.

How Long to Soak Hawaiian Rolls for the Best Texture

Unlike thicker breads, Hawaiian rolls don’t need to be soaked for long. Ten to fifteen seconds per side is enough.

The Secret Ingredient for Extra Flavor

A small touch of brown sugar or a splash of orange juice in the egg mixture can add unexpected depth to your French toast.

Storing and Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Made too much? Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers.

Best Ways to Store Leftover French Toast

• Let the French toast cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, freeze with parchment paper between slices.

How to Reheat for the Best Taste and Texture

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes for a crispy finish.
• Toaster: Great for quickly restoring crispiness.
• Microwave: Use short bursts to avoid sogginess.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast for Special Diets

If you have dietary restrictions, don’t worry you can still enjoy a delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe. Whether you’re avoiding dairy, eggs, or sugar, here are some simple swaps to make it fit your diet.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Substitutes

Traditional French toast relies on milk and eggs, but you can make it without them while keeping the same great flavor.

• Milk Substitute: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
• Egg Replacement: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg.
• Butter Alternative: Cook with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.

With these swaps, you can make a completely plant-based version of the Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe that still tastes amazing.

Low-Sugar and Low-Carb Adaptations

Looking to cut down on sugar or carbs? Try these simple adjustments:

• Reduce Sugar: Skip the sugar in the batter and use fresh fruit for natural sweetness.
• Low-Carb Option: Use keto-friendly rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls.
• Sugar-Free Syrup: Swap regular maple syrup for a sugar-free alternative.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Around the World

Did you know that French toast exists in different forms across the world? Let’s take a look at how other cultures enjoy their version of this delicious breakfast.

French Toast vs. Pain Perdu: What’s the Difference?

In France, French toast is called Pain Perdu, which means “lost bread.” It was originally made as a way to use up stale bread, often dipped in a rich egg custard and fried in butter.

Global Variations of French Toast

Each version has its own twist, but the idea remains the same crispy, custard-soaked bread that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Explore More Delicious Recipes

• How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
• Sourdough French Toast
• French Toast with Sourdough Bread

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Hawaiian Roll French Toast Today

By now, you know everything about making the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe. From choosing the right ingredients to trying out different toppings, fixing common mistakes, and even exploring international variations, you’re fully equipped to make this dish your own.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying. The soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls absorb just the right amount of egg mixture, creating a golden, crispy outside and a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth inside.

“Food is one of the greatest joys in life especially when it’s homemade with love.”

So why not treat yourself to a warm, buttery, and delicious plate of Hawaiian Roll French Toast this weekend? Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is guaranteed to brighten your morning.

We’d love to hear from you! How do you like your French toast? Drop a comment below and follow us on Facebook for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.

Happy cooking with Rita Chef ❤️!

Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

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• Author: Rita
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Soft fluffy Hawaiian rolls turned into golden French toast make for the perfect breakfast or brunch Treat yourself to a sweet and buttery twist on classic French toast with this easy-to-make recipe that is crispy on the outside tender on the inside and bursting with flavor Serve with maple syrup fresh berries or powdered sugar for a delicious morning treat

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Hawaiian rolls 12 slightly stale
Eggs 3 large
Milk or heavy cream ¾ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Cinnamon ½ teaspoon
Sugar or honey 1 tablespoon
Salt pinch
Butter 2 tablespoons for cooking
Maple syrup fresh fruit or powdered sugar for serving

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Instructions

Whisk together eggs milk vanilla extract cinnamon sugar and salt in a large bowl until smooth
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half if you prefer smaller pieces or keep them whole for a pull-apart style
Dip each roll into the egg mixture for 10 to 15 seconds per side allowing it to soak slightly but not get too soggy
Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat and melt butter
Place the soaked rolls onto the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy
Remove from heat and serve immediately with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup fresh berries or powdered sugar

Notes

For best results use slightly stale Hawaiian rolls to prevent sogginess
If your rolls are fresh leave them out overnight or lightly toast them before soaking
For a dairy-free version use almond milk or coconut milk and replace butter with coconut oil
For extra flavor add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice to the batter
For a caramelized crust sprinkle a little sugar on each side before cooking

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Pan-fried
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 rolls
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 330mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 140mg

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