Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe: A Sweet and Simple Breakfast Treat

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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If you’re looking for a breakfast recipe that’s equal parts delicious and easy to make, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is your answer. These soft, sweet rolls are transformed into golden-brown bites of perfection with a rich cinnamon-vanilla batter. Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a weekday treat, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Roll French Toast

  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Unique Flavor: Hawaiian rolls add a hint of sweetness that takes French toast to the next level.
  • Customizable: Top it with your favorite fruits, syrups, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
  • Kid-Friendly: Bite-sized pieces make it fun and easy for little ones to enjoy.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible breakfast:

Main Ingredients

IngredientQuantity
Hawaiian Sweet Rolls12 (halved for 24 pieces)
Large Eggs3
Half & Half½ cup
Granulated Sugar1 tbsp
Vanilla Extract2 tsp
Ground Cinnamon1 tsp
Nutmeg¼ tsp
Salt¼ tsp
Butter3 tbsp

Toppings

  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls

  1. Slice each Hawaiian roll in half to create 24 pieces. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Whisk the Batter

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggs, half & half, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  2. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Ensure the pan is evenly coated with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Dip and Cook the Rolls

  1. Quickly dip each roll piece into the egg batter, coating both sides. Do not soak them to avoid sogginess.
  2. Place the dipped rolls into the preheated skillet. Depending on the skillet size, you may need to cook in batches.
  3. Cook each piece for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping with tongs once golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Remove the cooked French toast pieces from the skillet and place them on a serving platter.
  2. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.

Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

1. Use Day-Old Rolls

Slightly stale rolls absorb the egg batter better without becoming too soft or mushy.

2. Control the Heat

If your skillet gets too hot, the outside may cook faster than the inside. Keep the heat at medium to ensure even cooking.

3. Work in Batches

Avoid overcrowding the skillet to allow each piece to cook evenly.

4. Add a Crunchy Topping

For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or granola on top before serving.

Nutritional Information

NutrientPer Serving (4 pieces)
Calories220
Protein6g
Carbohydrates28g
Fat9g
Fiber1g
Sugar10g
Sodium180mg

Creative Variations

1. Tropical Twist

Add shredded coconut and pineapple chunks as toppings to complement the Hawaiian theme.

2. Chocolate Lovers

Drizzle melted chocolate or Nutella over the French toast for a decadent treat.

3. Savory Option

Skip the cinnamon and sugar in the batter, and pair the rolls with crispy bacon or a fried egg.

4. Cream Cheese Filling

Spread cream cheese between two halves before dipping and cooking for a stuffed French toast.

FAQs About Hawaiian Roll French Toast

1. Can I Use Regular Bread Instead of Hawaiian Rolls?

Yes! While Hawaiian rolls add sweetness, you can substitute brioche, challah, or white bread.

2. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the egg batter and slice the rolls the night before. Cooked French toast is best served fresh.

3. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.

4. Can I Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Yes! Cook the French toast, let it cool, and freeze in a single layer. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

5. What Milk Alternatives Work in This Recipe?

Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can replace half & half for a dairy-free version.

6. How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?

Use gluten-free rolls or bread for a gluten-free twist on this classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Side DishWhy It Works
Fresh Fruit SaladAdds a refreshing balance.
Crispy BaconComplements the sweetness.
Iced Coffee or Hot CocoaEnhances the breakfast vibe.

Why You Should Try Hawaiian Roll French Toast

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe is perfect for anyone craving a breakfast that’s both comforting and indulgent. The soft, sweet rolls create a pillowy base that soaks up the flavorful batter without losing their structure. Topped with syrup and berries, it’s a dish that will delight both kids and adults alike.

Your Turn to Cook!

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and steps, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make this delightful breakfast treat. Don’t forget to get creative with the toppings and share your masterpiece with family and friends. Happy cooking!

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Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe: A Sweet and Simple Breakfast Treat


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  • Author: Melany
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls are transformed into golden bites of French toast perfection with this quick and easy recipe. Ideal for busy mornings or relaxed brunches, these cinnamon-vanilla-infused rolls are a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.


Ingredients

For the French Toast

  • 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, halved (24 pieces)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup half & half
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp butter (for cooking)

For Toppings

  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Optional: Chopped nuts, whipped cream, or shredded coconut

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rolls

  1. Slice each Hawaiian roll in half and set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Make the Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half & half, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.

Step 3: Preheat the Skillet

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tbsp of butter, ensuring it coats the pan evenly.

Step 4: Dip and Cook

  1. Dip each roll half into the batter, ensuring both sides are coated. Let any excess batter drip off.
  2. Place the coated rolls in the skillet in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
  3. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Add more butter as necessary for subsequent batches.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Transfer the cooked French toast rolls to a serving platter.
  2. Top with your favorite toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Pan-fried
  • Cuisine: American

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