Hawaiian Roll French Toast: How to Make This 15-Minute Delight

Introduction

Sick of having to eat the same boring breakfast every morning? Here’s Hawaiian Roll French Toast to blow your freaking mind, bro! So, a little twist on plain ol’ French toast taking those sweet, airy Hawaiian rolls – now that is a breakfast masterpiece and all done in 15 minutes. This is the type of French toast recipe you’d put against anything, and I’ve tried at least a dozen at home. And trust me when I say it’s gonna kick your taste buds’ butts with awesomeness, but takes no effort at all.

Here’s everything you need in the ultimate Hawaiian roll selection and a primer on dipping methodology, creative variations to keep breakfast fun all week. Dip into your best breakfast game with this easy and super-impressive dish!

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Why This Works as Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Uses inexpensive pre-packaged sweet rolls with built-in flavor
• Involves only approximately 15 minutes from start to finish
• Creates individual servings, particularly friendly for both children and adults
• Is perfect for everyday breakfast or a special ‘brunch’
• Provides a crunchy crust and soft, tender center

Selecting the Perfect Rolls

Best Rolls to Use for This Recipe

These are meant for King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls. They impress because of their sweetness and the special pull-apart texture that forms an excellent base. The pre-sliced rolls save golden morning minutes, and since they’re small in size, they pick the custard up quickly without getting too wet.

Buying Tips

Feel for packages to make sure they are soft and springy when gently squeezed. Check the expiration date for freshness. Well, no need to worry the least about somewhat stale rolls, for they toast even better (absorbing more flavor); just don’t go for rolls with visible mold or that are extremely dry.

Substitutions

If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls available, brioche dinner rolls are a great stand-in. Potato rolls have a similar texture and are not quite as sweet. In a real pinch, any soft dinner roll will do; a little extra sugar can be added to your egg mixture.

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Ingredients & Prep

Roll Prep Essentials

Arrange the rolls so they touch side-to-side, and divide them between the prepared dishes. For the best results, leave the package slightly open the night before to semi-dry the rolls a little; this will help them absorb more of the egg mixture without falling apart.

Custard Mixture

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, or just a sprinkling of coconut extract to the mix for a more Hawaiian tropical theme.

Pantry Staples

Butter for cooking, Maple syrup for serving, Powdered sugar for dusting, Optional: any kind of berry or sliced bananas or toasted coconut flakes for an island feel.

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Print

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Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Prep before Cooking

1. If the Hawaiian rolls are not already serving-sized pieces, separate them into individual pieces
2. Whisk together egg mixture in a shallow bowl wide enough to dip the rolls
3. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat
4. Add 1 tablespoon butter and allow it to melt until it begins to foam

Cooking Method

1. Dip each roll into the egg mixture and let them soak about 10-15 seconds per side-but don’t oversoak, or the rolls may fall apart
2. Place soaked rolls on the heated skillet, leaving at least 1 inch between each piece
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp

Doneness Check

The perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast has a golden-brown exterior with a slightly springy feel when pressed gently. The center should be moist but not soggy. If you’re concerned about doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure the egg mixture is fully cooked.

Resting

Allow your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to rest for 1-2 minutes before serving so the heat distributes all around, setting the custard a little in the center. Serve just after resting for optimum texture contrast of crisp exterior and soft interior.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Avoiding Soggy French Toast

Do not soak for too long — Hawaiian rolls tend to suck up liquid. A quick 10-15 second dip per side will do. Cook right after dipping to avoid sogginess. Cook over medium, not high, so that the inside cooks before the outside burns.

Tool Recommendations

A wide, shallow bowl makes dipping easier. A non-stick skillet or electric griddle provides even heating. Silicone tongs help turn the delicate rolls without piercing them. A fish spatula’s thin edge is perfect for flipping without damaging your creation.

Storage & Reheating

Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat without getting them soggy in the toaster oven, toast for 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving since they will end up being limp. For meal prep, freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag after they have completely cooled, where they can stay for one month.

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Flavor Variations of Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Tropical Twist

Add 1/4 teaspoon of coconut extract to your egg mixture to really up the Hawaiian vibe. Finish the French toast with fresh diced pineapple, sliced bananas, and toasted coconut flakes on top. Serve with coconut syrup instead of maple for a totally tropical experience.

Keto/Low-Carb Option

While traditional Hawaiian rolls are not keto-friendly, you can still have this recipe by substituting keto-approved dinner rolls. Also, replace sugar in the egg mixture with any keto-friendly sweetener and serve with whipped cream, a few berries, and sugar-free maple syrup.

Global Flavors

Add a touch of the exotic to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with cardamom and pistachios, which are reminiscent of the Middle East, or with cinnamon sugar and dulce de leche, which bring to mind flavors of Mexico. For something a little different with a Japanese flair, sprinkle them lightly with matcha powder, and serve with a dollop of sweetened red bean paste.

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Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian Roll French Toast pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, keeping the dish light and refreshing. For a heartier brunch, consider adding crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage to create a balanced sweet and savory profile. A side of Fage Banana Bread brings extra texture and flavor, making the meal even more indulgent.

The right beverage can enhance the experience. A Strawberry Caipirinha adds a fruity and refreshing contrast, while a Baileys Irish Cream Wafer Cocktail turns brunch into a decadent treat. For a more protein-packed start to the day, a 30g Protein Breakfast offers an energy boost that pairs well with the soft, buttery French toast. Those following a special diet can complement their meal with a Dairy-Free Breakfast, ensuring a delicious spread without restrictions.

For a tropical-inspired touch, coconut water keeps the flavors light, while a mimosa made with pineapple juice instead of orange juice elevates the brunch experience. Whether you prefer a strong iced coffee to cut through the richness or a classic pairing of fresh juice, this French toast is versatile enough to suit any occasion.

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FAQs – Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Can I prepare the egg mixture the night before?

Yes! The egg mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before using.

How do I fix French toast that’s too soggy in the middle?

Remove the offending piece of French toast and place all the others on a baking sheet, then return to the oven at about 350°F for another 5-7 minutes until the centers are cooked to the right consistency.

Can I prepare this recipe as dairy-free?

Of course! You can replace whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. Cook it with a butter alternative. I find the coconut milk version quite nice with that added touch of a tropical note going well with the Hawaiian theme.

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Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the breakfast revolution you needed. In as little as 15 minutes you can turn ordinary Hawaiian sweet rolls into a morning delight that everyone will be asking seconds for the sweet, fluffy rolls soaked in a perfectly spiced custard, this is breakfast magic both easy and impressive all at once.

Ready for the next breakthrough in breakfasts? Try out the recipe with thousands of home cooks who have found that just switching from plain bread to Hawaiian rolls makes a supreme French toast. Once you’ve tried this one out, try out our Overnight French Toast Casserole for another breakfast apocalypse!