Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe for Beginners

French toast is a beloved breakfast dish in many homes, a simple and satisfying meal that turns ordinary bread into something extraordinary. But have you ever tried making French toast with Hawaiian rolls? If not, you’re in for a treat. Hawaiian roll French toast is a delicious variation that combines the rich, soft texture of sweet Hawaiian rolls with the classic French toast recipe you know and love. The sweetness of the rolls adds a whole new level of flavor, making each bite feel like a warm, comforting hug.

The origin of French toast itself dates back centuries, with variations seen in different cultures. This timeless dish has been enjoyed by many over the years, with its roots stretching back through the generations. The idea of using Hawaiian rolls for French toast is a modern twist that takes advantage of the soft, fluffy texture and sweet taste of the rolls. When you soak these rolls in the familiar egg batter and cook them to golden perfection, the result is a decadent treat that’s ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Personally, this dish brings me back to Sunday mornings with my family. The air always smelled of cinnamon, vanilla, and the sweet aroma of fresh rolls sizzling on the griddle. It brings that same warmth and nostalgia, but with an added touch of sweetness. If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful breakfast recipe that’s easy to make, Hawaiian roll French toast is definitely worth trying.

Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Roll French Toast

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this recipe. Let me share four of the best benefits:

1. Sweet and Savory Flavor

The soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls bring a delicious new dimension to classic French toast. The sweetness of the rolls pairs perfectly with the rich, custardy batter, creating a balanced and indulgent flavor profile.

2. Easy to Make

Whether you’re a beginner home cook or an experienced chef, Hawaiian roll French toast is a breeze to prepare. The ingredients are simple, and the cooking process is quick, so you can have this delightful dish on your table in no time.

3. Perfect for Special Occasions

This dish works wonders for family breakfasts, weekend brunches, or any time you want to make a breakfast special. Hawaiian roll French toast can be dressed up with toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of syrup to make it feel like a special treat.

4. Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can add spices, fruits, or even nuts to the batter, or serve it with different toppings to suit your tastes. There’s no limit to the fun variations you can create.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

For the French Toast:

• 4 large Hawaiian rolls (sliced into halves or quarters)
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)

Toppings (optional):

• Powdered sugar
• Maple syrup
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
• Whipped cream
• Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Steps

Making this recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Follow these easy steps to create a golden, fluffy breakfast treat:

1. Prepare the Batter

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and sugar until smooth.

2. Soak the Hawaiian Rolls

Place the sliced Hawaiian rolls into the batter, one piece at a time. Let the rolls soak for 20-30 seconds on each side, ensuring they’re fully coated.

3. Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet or griddle on medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt, evenly covering the surface of the pan.

4. Cook the French Toast

When the pan is heated, place the soaked Hawaiian rolls onto it. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown.

5. Serve and Top

Transfer the cooked French toast to plates and top with your favorite toppings, such as powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Tips and Twists

Tips for Making Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

1. Use Day-Old Hawaiian Rolls
   Slightly stale Hawaiian rolls work best because they soak up the batter without falling apart. Fresh rolls might get too soggy and break easily.
2. Don’t Over-Soak the Rolls
   Make sure to dip the Hawaiian rolls quickly. Over-soaking them can make them too soggy and difficult to cook properly.
3. Adjust the Heat
   If the French toast is browning too fast, lower the heat a bit to ensure it cooks evenly. You want a nice golden color, but not burnt edges.
4. Flavor Variations
   Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg, almond extract, or even orange zest to the batter for a new flavor twist.
5. Use a Non-Stick Pan
   A non-stick skillet or griddle will ensure the French toast doesn’t stick and makes flipping easier.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Twists

1. Tropical Twist
   For an island-inspired version, top the French toast with sliced pineapple, shredded coconut, and a drizzle of honey or coconut syrup.
2. Berry-Licious
   For a fruity take, add some fresh berries to the batter, or serve with a berry compote on top. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries all work wonderfully.
3. Nutty Delight
   For a nutty twist, stir in a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter. You can also sprinkle them on top for added crunch.

FAQ About Hawaiian Roll French Toast

1. Can I freeze Hawaiian roll French toast?

Yes, you can freeze the French toast. Cook the pieces and allow them to cool. Once cool, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or microwave.

2. Can I make this without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a plant-based option like flax eggs or a dairy-free milk alternative such as almond or oat milk. Just make sure to add a thickener like cornstarch to mimic the texture of eggs.

3. How can I make Hawaiian roll French toast extra crispy?

For extra crispy French toast, dip the rolls in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes before frying. This will give the toast a satisfying crunch.

4. Can I use different types of rolls?

While Hawaiian rolls work best, you can use other soft bread like challah, brioche, or even cinnamon rolls. Each type of bread will bring a slightly different flavor and texture.

5. How can I serve this dish for a crowd?

To serve for a crowd, bake the French toast in a large casserole dish instead of frying it in a pan. Pour the soaked bread into the dish and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Give Hawaiian Roll French Toast a Try

Hawaiian roll French toast is a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. Its soft texture, sweet flavor, and easy preparation make it the perfect dish for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike. Don’t hesitate—try making this irresistible breakfast treat today!