As I flipped through my recipe book, a colorful picture caught my eye: fluffy slices of Hawaiian Roll French Toast surrounded by fresh berries and a drizzle of syrup. I had just stumbled upon my new brunch obsession! These delightful bites bring a whole new level of sweetness to breakfast, making them perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or special gatherings with friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its quick prep and elevated flavor, combining the soft texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls with creamy custard and a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar. Whether you’re indulging in a cozy family brunch or impressing guests at a celebration, these tasty morsels are sure to become a favorite. Ready to uncover your new go-to brunch dish? Let’s get started!

Why love Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

**Irresistible *Sweetness:* The naturally sweet flavor of King’s Hawaiian rolls elevates this classic breakfast into something extraordinary.
**Easy *Preparation:* With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up quickly for any occasion.
**Crispy *Outside, Soft Inside:* Enjoy a perfect contrast of textures with a golden crust and a rich, custardy center.
**Versatile *Toppings:* Add fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup to customize your dish for everyone’s taste.
Crowd-Pleaser:** Whether it’s a family brunch or a festive gathering, these bites are always a hit! For more delicious brunch ideas, check out my Grilled Cheese Hawaiian or a warm slice of Cinnamon Roll Coffee.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

For the Custard
• Eggs – These provide structure and richness to the custard.
• Half and Half or Whole Milk – Adds creaminess; can use any milk for a lighter version.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor with its aromatic sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm spice that complements the sweetness nicely.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the custard and adds a hint of molasses flavor; substitute white sugar if needed.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness, making every bite more delicious.
For the Rolls
• King’s Hawaiian Rolls – The sweet base providing a fluffy and delightful texture; ideal for this recipe.
• Butter – Adds rich flavor when cooking; substitute with oil for a dairy-free option.
For Garnishing
• Powdered Sugar – Lightly dust on top for added sweetness and a fancy touch.
• Fresh Fruit & Maple Syrup – Offer a contrast of flavors and freshness, elevating this Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating those delectable bites that are sure to delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs and 1 cup of half and half until fully combined, achieving a smooth mixture. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. This creamy custard serves as the delightful base for your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 2: Prep the Rolls
Grab your King’s Hawaiian rolls and place them on a cutting board. Use a toothpick to poke several holes in each roll, allowing the custard to soak in and infuse every lovely bite. You’ll notice the rolls puff up slightly as you prepare them; this is a great sign that they will absorb the flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls
Dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds on each side. Make sure they’re evenly coated without becoming soggy—each roll should be moist but still hold its shape. This step is crucial for achieving that heavenly custardy texture within your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat and add about 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt and bubble gently. You’re aiming for a slight sizzle when the rolls hit the pan, which indicates it’s the perfect temperature for cooking. This buttery base will create that golden-brown exterior.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Carefully place the soaked rolls in the skillet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook for about 30-60 seconds on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on the color and flip them gently for even cooking, creating that enticing crispiness on the outside.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, transfer your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to a serving platter. Dust generously with powdered sugar for a lovely touch, then top with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup. The contrasting flavors and textures are sure to bring smiles to the breakfast table!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Room Temperature: Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.

Freezer: To freeze, place cooled French toast bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container once frozen. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat frozen Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they stay fluffy!

What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Indulge in a delightful breakfast experience that balances sweetness with savory elements, perfectly complementing your French toast bites.

Crispy Bacon: The salty and smoky notes of crispy bacon provide a delicious contrast to the sweet rolls, creating a perfect balance.
Sausage Patties: Juicy sausage patties add a hearty touch, delivering rich flavors that beautifully round out your meal.
Maple-Glazed Fruit: Fresh fruits, like bananas or berries, drizzled with maple syrup enhance the natural sweetness and introduce a juicy freshness.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream enriches each bite, making your breakfast feel like an indulgent dessert.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a bit of chocolate sauce gives an extraordinary twist, appealing to anyone with a sweet tooth.
Hot Chocolate: Start your morning with warmth by pairing your French toast with a frothy cup of hot chocolate for a cozy touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Indulge in a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent touch, because who says you can’t have dessert for breakfast?
Mocha Coffee: Pairing your meal with a smooth mocha brings that perfect diner-style charm, enhancing the overall experience.

Elevate your breakfast table by combining flavors and textures that make every bite memorable!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these delightful variations!

Maple Syrup Alternative: Swap maple syrup for agave syrup for a different sweet touch that’s equally delicious.
Extract Twists: Try almond or coconut extract in the custard for a unique flavor profile that will surprise your taste buds.
Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the custard for a rich, decadent treat that kids will absolutely adore. Each bite becomes a chocolatey dream!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts in the custard for a delightful crunch alongside the soft and tender rolls. They add a beautiful texture and complement the sweetness perfectly.
Fruit Infusion: Toss in fresh fruit like blueberries or raspberries directly into the custard for a burst of flavor in every bite. Imagine the juicy sweetness melded with the custard goodness!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond or coconut milk instead of half and half to create a fantastic dairy-free version while still maintaining that creamy texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the custard for a surprising hint of spice that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness. It’s a small twist that makes a big difference!
Savory Version: For a savory twist, add bacon bits or cheese into the mix and skip the sugar altogether. Enjoy a whole new take on breakfast that will keep your taste buds guessing!

For more tasty treats that bring delight to your table, consider serving them alongside some warm Butter Dinner Rolls or finish with a slice of French Chocolate Flan. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Crack the Eggs: Ensure eggs are at room temperature before whisking; they mix better and create a richer custard.
Perfect Soak Time: Avoid sogginess by limiting each roll’s soak time to 30 seconds—this ensures a delightful custardy interior without losing shape.
Golden Brown Finish: Use medium-low heat to cook the rolls slowly, ensuring a perfectly golden exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
Easy Cleanup: Line your skillet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, making your cooking experience smoother.
Garnishing Galore: Don’t be shy with toppings! Fresh fruit and maple syrup not only enhance flavor but also make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast visually appealing.

Make Ahead Options

These Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites are perfect for busy cooks looking to save precious time during the week! You can prepare the custard mixture (4 eggs, 1 cup of half and half, 1 teaspoon each of vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, along with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and a pinch of salt) up to 24 hours in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can poke holes in the rolls ahead of time, allowing them to soak up all that delicious flavor when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply dip the rolls into the custard and cook them as instructed. They’ll turn out just as delicious, giving you delightful bites that are ready for any brunch occasion!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting King’s Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! When choosing King’s Hawaiian rolls, look for soft and fluffy rolls without any dark spots or damage. They should be fresh, ideally with a sell-by date a few days ahead. Fresh rolls offer the perfect texture and sweetness for this delightful French toast!

How should I store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay good for up to 3 days. Just reheat them quickly in the microwave for about 30 seconds, and they’ll be almost as delicious as the day they were made!

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast bites?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow your French toast bites to cool completely. Then, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can last for up to 2 months.

What can I do if the custard becomes too soggy?
No worries! If you find that the custard absorbs too much and the rolls become soggy, the key is to reduce the soak time. Aim for about 30 seconds per side. Also, ensure the custard mixture isn’t too runny by balancing the eggs and liquid correctly. This way, your rolls will achieve that sneaky custardy center while retaining their lovely structure.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Indeed! While this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe doesn’t highlight specific dietary restrictions, it’s good to note that it contains eggs and milk, which may pose allergy concerns. For a dairy-free alternative, you can use plant-based milk and butter substitutes. Always check ingredient labels to avoid any allergens for yourself or your guests!

What toppings work best with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
The more, the merrier! You can personalize your bites with an array of toppings. Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas add a burst of freshness. Maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar elevate the sweetness, while a dollop of whipped cream or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce can take your dish to the next level. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!