Hawaiian Roll French Toast

There’s something magical about waking up to the scent of cinnamon and butter sizzling in the kitchen. The first bite of Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a little taste of morning bliss—soft, pillowy rolls soaked in a rich vanilla custard and cooked until perfectly golden. Each bite delivers a balance of sweetness and warmth, making it impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving this for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this dish brings comfort and nostalgia to the breakfast table.

I still remember the first time I made Hawaiian Roll French Toast on a lazy Sunday morning. The rolls sat on the counter, tempting me with their golden hue, and I knew I had to do something special with them. As I whisked together the eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla, the kitchen filled with a familiar scent that instantly transported me back to childhood breakfasts at my grandmother’s house. She always had a knack for turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals, and this recipe captures that same homemade charm.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Simple ingredients – Uses kitchen staples like eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Soft and fluffy texture – The Hawaiian rolls absorb the custard beautifully, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Customizable – Add toppings like whipped cream, fruit, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor.
• Perfect for special occasions – Great for brunch, Mother’s Day, or holiday breakfasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast, gather the following:

• 1 (12-pack) of King’s Hawaiian Rolls
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup half-and-half (or whole milk)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 small pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons butter (for frying)
• Powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and maple syrup for topping

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

First: Preparation

• Crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl.
• Add the half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt.
• Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
• Using a toothpick or skewer, poke a few holes into the bottom of each Hawaiian roll. This helps them absorb the custard without getting mushy.

If you enjoy delicious, comforting meals, you may also love this Crockpot Beef and Noodles, a slow-cooked classic that’s rich and satisfying.

Second: Soaking the Rolls

• Dip a few Hawaiian rolls into the egg mixture at a time.
• Let them soak for about 30 seconds—any longer and they might become too soft.

Third: Cooking the Rolls

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
• Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the pan.
• Place the soaked rolls in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them.
• Cook for about 30 seconds per side, turning each roll to ensure even browning.
• Adjust heat if needed to prevent burning.

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Fourth: Serving and Toppings

• Once golden brown, transfer the rolls to a plate.
• Dust with powdered sugar.
• Serve with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or even crispy bacon on the side.
• Enjoy warm!

Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Use fresh Hawaiian rolls – They absorb the custard mixture best and stay soft on the inside.
• Avoid over-soaking – 30 seconds is the perfect amount of time.
• Keep the heat low – Medium-low heat ensures the inside cooks without burning the outside.
• Add extra flavors – Try adding nutmeg, orange zest, or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist.

If you’re a fan of comforting and homestyle recipes, be sure to try this Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf, a delicious and hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Skipping the holes in the rolls – This step ensures even absorption.
• Using too much butter – While butter adds flavor, too much can make the rolls greasy.
• Cooking on high heat – This leads to a burnt exterior and an undercooked interior.

FAQs About Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Cooked rolls can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.

Q: How do I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast healthier?

A: Swap whole milk for almond or oat milk, reduce the sugar, and serve with fresh fruit instead of syrup.

Q: Can I bake instead of pan-fry?

A: Yes! Arrange soaked rolls in a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until golden brown.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet and indulgent breakfast. With its soft and fluffy texture, rich cinnamon flavor, and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you serve it with syrup, fruit, or a side of crispy bacon, this dish is sure to impress.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how you like it! Don’t forget to share it with family and friends!

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