Deliciously Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe
Deliciously Hawaiian roll French toast transforms soft, sweet rolls into a decadent breakfast treat that is both fluffy and flavorful. Each slice soaks in a rich custard and cooks to a golden perfection, offering a tender texture with a subtly sweet taste that is irresistible. Topped with syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar, this French toast elevates a classic morning favorite into a special occasion delight.
Perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or holiday mornings, this recipe is simple yet impressive. The aroma of buttery, golden French toast filling the kitchen creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Its easy preparation and quick cooking time make it a go to recipe for anyone looking to start the day with a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients Needed
Ingredient | Amount | Approx Calories |
---|---|---|
Hawaiian rolls sliced | 12 rolls | 960 |
Large eggs | 4 | 280 |
Whole milk | 1 cup | 120 |
Heavy cream | 1/4 cup | 100 |
Granulated sugar | 3 tablespoons | 150 |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
Butter for cooking | 2 tablespoons | 200 |
Maple syrup for serving | 1/2 cup | 420 |
Powdered sugar for topping | 2 tablespoons | 60 |
Total approximate calories for the entire recipe: 2,308 kcal
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preparing the custard mixture. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and fully combined. This mixture will soak into the Hawaiian rolls to give them a tender and flavorful texture.
Next, slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally so each roll forms two thick slices. Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter to coat the surface. Dip each slice of Hawaiian roll into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak briefly but not become too soggy.
Place the soaked rolls onto the heated skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp around the edges. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring the inside cooks through. Repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter to the skillet as necessary.
Serve the French toast warm, stacking slices on plates and drizzling generously with maple syrup. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar and optional fresh fruit such as berries or banana slices for added color and freshness. Each bite delivers a soft, sweet, and indulgent breakfast experience that is perfect for weekends, brunch gatherings, or special occasions.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This French toast recipe is very versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste or what you have on hand. You can use different types of sweet rolls or brioche instead of Hawaiian rolls for a slightly different texture and flavor. Slightly stale rolls work best as they soak up the custard without becoming too mushy.
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest to the custard. You can also layer slices with cream cheese, peanut butter, or jam before cooking to create a stuffed French toast variation. Fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas can be added on top for natural sweetness and a pop of color.
You can make this recipe ahead by assembling the rolls and custard mixture the night before and refrigerating. In the morning, cook the soaked rolls directly from the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld for a richer taste.
Adjust the toppings to your preference. Drizzle with maple syrup, honey, or a fruit compote, and sprinkle with powdered sugar or toasted nuts for added texture. These small adjustments make it easy to create a unique and indulgent breakfast every time.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Hawaiian roll French toast provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, making it a satisfying and indulgent breakfast option. If the recipe is divided into six servings, each portion contains approximately 385 calories. The eggs and milk supply protein, which helps maintain energy and fullness, while the Hawaiian rolls contribute carbohydrates for sustained morning energy.
Each serving contains around 14 grams of fat, mainly from the butter and heavy cream, which gives the French toast its tender and rich texture. The cinnamon adds flavor without extra calories, and optional toppings like fresh fruit increase vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
For a lighter version, you can use low fat milk, reduce the sugar slightly, or skip the butter during cooking. Maple syrup can also be reduced or replaced with a fruit compote for fewer calories. This French toast combines indulgence and nutrition, making it a delicious choice for weekend breakfasts or special occasions.
Serving Suggestions

Serve the Hawaiian roll French toast warm for the best texture and flavor. Stack the slices on plates and drizzle generously with maple syrup to enhance the sweet and soft rolls. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a visually appealing touch and extra sweetness.
Top the French toast with fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices to add natural sweetness and a pop of color. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can provide extra texture and richness.
For beverages, pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of fresh juice to complete a comforting and indulgent breakfast or brunch. This dish is perfect for weekends, holiday mornings, or any occasion when you want a special treat that feels both luxurious and easy to prepare.
Conclusion
Deliciously Hawaiian roll French toast turns simple sweet rolls into an indulgent and comforting breakfast. The soft, custard soaked rolls cook to a golden perfection, offering a tender texture and subtly sweet taste that appeals to both children and adults. Topped with syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit, it becomes a visually appealing and flavorful dish that elevates any morning meal.
This recipe is easy to prepare and highly adaptable. You can experiment with different toppings, fillings, or flavor additions like nutmeg or citrus zest to create a unique version each time. Ideal for weekend breakfasts, holiday mornings, or brunch gatherings, Hawaiian roll French toast combines simplicity, richness, and a touch of elegance, making it a must have recipe for anyone who enjoys a sweet and satisfying start to the day.
FAQS
Q1. Can I use different types of rolls or bread?
Absolutely. Brioche, challah, or other sweet rolls can be used instead of Hawaiian rolls. Slightly stale rolls work best as they absorb the custard without becoming too soft.
Q2. Can I add fillings or toppings?
Yes, you can add cream cheese, peanut butter, or jam between slices for stuffed French toast. Fresh fruit, powdered sugar, syrup, or toasted nuts can also be added for extra flavor and texture.
Q3. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving to enjoy warm and tender slices.