Learn how to make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast with this easy, step-by-step guide. Perfect for beginners & packed with sweet breakfast flavor!

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Introduction

Elevate your breakfast game with this irresistible Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe that transforms ordinary sweet rolls into an extraordinary morning treat. This isn’t your typical French toast – by using King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls, you’ll create a perfectly portioned, pull-apart breakfast that combines the buttery sweetness of these famous rolls with the classic cinnamon-vanilla flavors of traditional French toast. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family or hosting a weekend brunch, this Homemade Hawaiian Roll French Toast is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort. The sweet, pillowy texture of Hawaiian rolls makes them the perfect canvas for soaking up the rich custard mixture, resulting in a breakfast that’s crispy on the outside and delightfully soft inside. Ready in just 30 minutes, this Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe might just become your new breakfast staple!

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Quick and easy to prepare – Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish!
• Perfect for feeding a crowd – The pull-apart nature makes serving simple
• Kid-friendly breakfast – Sweet flavor and fun format appeals to children
• Great for meal prep – Can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning
• Versatile recipe – Easily customizable with different toppings and mix-ins
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
• Impressive presentation – Looks like it took hours despite being incredibly simple
• No special tools required – Basic kitchen equipment is all you need

Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

For the French Toast Base:

• 1 package (12 count) King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls, kept intact
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

For Serving (Optional):

• Maple syrup
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Whipped cream
• Sliced bananas
• Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)

Ingredient Notes:

• For a dairy-free Hawaiian Roll French Toast option, substitute almond milk and coconut cream for the milk and heavy cream.
• Want to add some citrus flavor? Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the egg mixture.
• For a richer Hawaiian bread French toast, use half-and-half instead of milk.
• Looking for a healthier version? Use egg whites instead of whole eggs and reduce the sugar.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Make sure there are no streaks of egg whites visible and the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls

1. Keep the Hawaiian sweet rolls connected in their original rectangular package shape.
2. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of rolls horizontally through the middle, creating a top and bottom half (like cutting a hamburger bun).
3. Place the bottom half in a 9×13 inch baking dish that has been lightly greased with butter.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls

1. Slowly pour half of the egg mixture over the bottom layer of rolls, allowing it to soak in completely.
2. Place the top half of the rolls back on top.
3. Pour the remaining egg mixture evenly over the top, making sure to get some in between the seams of the rolls.
4. Gently press down on the rolls to help them absorb the custard mixture.

Step 4: Baking Options

For Immediate Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the soaked rolls.
3. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
4. Bake for 20 minutes covered.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

For Overnight Preparation:

1. After soaking the rolls, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap.
2. Refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours).
3. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Remove plastic wrap, drizzle with melted butter, and cover with foil.
6. Follow the same baking instructions as above.

Step 5: Serving

1. Let the Hawaiian Roll French Toast rest for 5 minutes after baking.
2. Cut along the roll separations to create individual servings.
3. Serve warm with your choice of toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Don’t rush the soaking process – Allow sufficient time for the rolls to absorb the egg mixture for the most flavorful result.
• The secret to the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast is using room temperature ingredients. Take your eggs and milk out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before preparing.
• For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier) to the custard mixture.
• Create a flavor variation by adding 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the egg mixture for a chocolate version.
• For a caramelized bottom, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of brown sugar in the greased baking dish before adding the rolls.
• If the tops are browning too quickly during baking, simply place the foil back on top.
• Let the French toast rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to make it easier to cut and serve.

Best Ways to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

The best way to serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast is warm from the oven with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. However, this versatile breakfast delight can be customized in numerous ways:

• Create a breakfast bar with various toppings like fresh fruit, chopped nuts, whipped cream, and different syrups.
• For a decadent brunch option, serve with a side of crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a sweet and savory combination.
• Make it a complete meal by adding a fruit salad on the side.
• For a special occasion, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert version.
• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and honey for a protein boost.

This pull apart French toast is perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or any time you want to make breakfast feel special!

Nutritional Information for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Per Serving (Based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 185mg
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g

Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

This Hawaiian bread French toast is a more indulgent breakfast option, perfect for special occasions. For a lighter version, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs and reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe.

Storage & Leftovers

Can I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Absolutely! Here’s how to properly store and enjoy your leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Individual portions can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating refrigerated leftovers: The best way to reheat Hawaiian Roll French Toast is in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Reheating frozen leftovers: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as directed above, or reheat from frozen by adding 5-7 additional minutes to the reheating time.
• Microwave option: For a quick reheat, microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds, though this may result in a softer texture.

FAQs for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Yes! After baking and cooling completely, you can freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What can I use instead of Hawaiian rolls in this French toast recipe?

If you can’t find King’s Hawaiian rolls, you can substitute brioche dinner rolls, challah rolls, or any soft, slightly sweet dinner rolls. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but the recipe will still work beautifully.

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for preparing the night before. Complete all steps up to baking, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, then bake as directed. It’s an excellent option for make ahead breakfast for holiday mornings or when hosting guests.

Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast kid-friendly?

Definitely! Children love the sweet flavor and fun pull-apart format of this Hawaiian sweet roll French toast. It’s perfect for little hands and makes a special breakfast treat that kids will request again and again.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoy this Hawaiian Roll French Toast, try these other delicious breakfast recipes:

• Classic French Toast with Brioche
• Cinnamon Roll Casserole
• Overnight Blueberry French Toast Bake
• Banana Bread French Toast
• Stuffed French Toast with Cream Cheese and Berries

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast at home, you’re equipped with a recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. This clever twist on traditional French toast takes advantage of the sweet, pillowy texture of Hawaiian rolls to create a breakfast that’s both convenient and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease of preparation and wow-factor results.

The beauty of this sweet roll French toast recipe lies in its versatility – customize it with your favorite toppings, prepare it ahead of time, or enjoy it fresh from the oven. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this recipe! Did you try any special toppings or modifications? Leave a comment below and share your experience with our Hawaiian Roll French Toast!

Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with friends who appreciate a good breakfast treat!

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