There’s something comforting about warm, slightly sweet bread dipped in a smooth egg mixture and cooked to a golden brown finish. Many people enjoy traditional french toast, but there is a new spin that delivers an even more delicious sweet flavor. That spin is hawaiian roll french toast. By using hawaiian rolls, you get a fluffy sweet interior that stands out from the usual slices of french bread, brioche bread, or challah bread. Each roll has a sweet taste, thanks in large part to king’s hawaiian, a brand known for producing a sweet bread roll that originated in hawaii and quickly gained admirers for its softness.
Table of Contents
Key Benefits
One of the greatest advantages of making the french toast with these rolls is the sweet flavor that sets it apart from typical versions. This dish relies on a roll that originated in hawaii, which happens to be soft and slightly sweet all on its own. When you dip each hawaiian roll into a balanced french toast batter—often consisting of cinnamon, vanilla extract, a bit of sugar, and a creamy liquid like half and half or heavy cream—the sweetness of the bread merges seamlessly with the gentle spice of cinnamon.
As each piece cooks, the outside becomes golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet remains fluffy within. Many people find that hawaiian rolls outperform standard slices because of their tender crumb and mild sweetness. Some even claim it yields the best french toast ever, noting how these rolls stay soft and flavorful. By using hawaiian rolls, you avoid the dryness that can occur with certain traditional french toast bread options. Instead, you’re rewarded with a soft center that soaks up enough of the egg mixture to taste rich without turning soggy.
Another appealing aspect is how versatile these sweet rolls can be. You can turn them into a hawaiian roll french toast casserole if you need to feed multiple people or prepare smaller french toast bites for a simple snack. Creating a big batch over the weekend is also popular for a sweet breakfast that feels special. Whether you call them kings hawaiian or hawaiian original, their consistently soft texture enhances the dish. Each roll holds a delicious sweet flavor that pairs nicely with toppings like powdered sugar or fresh berries. Overall, this method meets hawaiian bread’s unique sweetness in a way that’s convenient, flavorful, and satisfying.
Ingredients
In this hawaiian roll french toast recipe, you don’t need anything complicated. The sweet taste of sweet hawaiian rolls is key, so gather your items in advance for a smooth process:
- Hawaiian Rolls (1 package, about 12 rolls): Look for original hawaiian sweet rolls, such as king’s hawaiian rolls or king’s hawaiian sweet rolls. These make the perfect sweet bread base.
- Eggs (4 large): Essential for creating the egg mixture that gives each piece the classic texture.
- Heavy Cream (½ cup): This adds richness and keeps the result fluffy. You can swap in half and half if you prefer.
- Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Offers a hint of molasses flavor to complement the bread’s sweetness.
- Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Brings warmth and depth. You can also add cinnamon and sugar on top for extra flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A classic component in any french toast batter.
- Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar (for dusting): A sprinkling at the end makes the dish look even more tempting.
- Maple Syrup (as desired): Drizzle maple syrup on top or serve it on the side.
Some cooks like to slice the rolls in half for a smaller portion, while others keep each sweet roll intact.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast – Step by Step
Follow these steps to make french toast with hawaiian rolls. The goal is a result that is crispy on the outside yet tender within. Keep an eye on soak time and heat level to avoid a soggy texture.
- Combine Your Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together four eggs, the heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. This forms the egg mixture that coats each roll. Whisk thoroughly so the brown sugar dissolves and the cinnamon spreads evenly. If you adore extra spice, stir in a bit more cinnamon here. - Prepare the Rolls
Decide if you want smaller pieces or the look of intact rolls. You can tear the rolls into individual pieces or cut the rolls in half for a more compact size. If you like the appearance of classic french toast, keep each sweet roll whole. The key is allowing the hawaiian roll in the custard enough time to absorb flavors without getting overly soft. - Dip Each Hawaiian Roll
Dip each hawaiian roll in the custard for a couple of seconds on each side. This gives the bread just enough time to soak in the mixture. Avoid leaving them in too long, or they may soak up too much liquid and lose their shape. - Heat Your Skillet
Set a skillet over medium heat. Heat a large pan and add a little bit of butter or a small drizzle of oil. Once the butter foams slightly, the surface is ready for cooking. An evenly heated pan ensures uniform browning. - Cook the Rolls
Arrange the coated rolls in the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for about two to three minutes per side, or until they become golden brown. You’ll see the edges turn crisp. Cooking the rolls in smaller batches prevents crowding and helps retain a good texture. Remove each finished group to a warm plate or tray while you finish subsequent sets. - Turn the Rolls for Even Browning
Use a spatula to turn the rolls carefully. If they need more color, give them another minute on the heat. Aim for surfaces that are golden brown and crispy without burning. This step locks in flavor and prevents undercooking. - Serve and Enjoy
After making the french toast, transfer the rolls to a serving plate. Drizzle sugar and maple syrup or dust each with powdered sugar. If you want a fresh, tart contrast, add fresh berries or sliced fruit. For an indulgent take, you can use whipped cream or a bit of chocolate sauce.
If you love to keep a handy reference, print or save this recipe card so you can return to it anytime. Adjust soak times and cooking times based on your preferred texture—some like a faster dip for a firmer bite, while others crave a softer center. With practice, you’ll find a perfect balance and end up with french toast rolls that are slightly crisp on the surface, fluffy inside, and bursting with flavor.
Pro Tips and Variations
If you want to customize or add different twists, consider these ideas:
- Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole
Turn your morning routine into a breeze by creating a large french toast casserole. Layer leftover hawaiian rolls in a greased dish, then pour your prepared egg mixture over the top. Let them soak for a few minutes—or even overnight—and bake until everything is cooked through and lightly golden on top. This saves time if you’re feeding multiple people. - French Toast Bites or Puffs
Slice or tear your rolls into bite-sized pieces for quick french toast bites. Some enjoy shaping them into round french toast puffs. A short soak and brief cook time make them easy to serve at parties or brunch gatherings. - Alternate Breads
You can also use brioche bread or experiment with challah french toast if you desire a slightly different texture. Yet many people feel that nothing beats the inherent sweetness of king’s hawaiian bread. The gentle flavor of hawaiian original stands out when prepared this way. - Flavorful Add-Ons
Give your dish a tropical spin by sprinkling shredded coconut or adding pineapple tidbits. For a sweet burst, toss in chocolate chips or dried fruit. Whatever you do, use hawaiian rolls as a base to keep that gentle sweetness intact.
These variations show how simple it is to enjoy easy hawaiian roll french toast in different forms. Whether you prefer a cozy casserole or smaller bites, you’ll see how the unique sweetness of the rolls elevates each approach.
Looking for another delicious baked treat? Try our Braided Chocolate Chip recipe—soft, golden dough braided with rich chocolate chips for the perfect sweet indulgence! Click to check it out now.
Serving Suggestions
Presenting hawaiian roll french toast is simple, and you can dress it up in many ways. A sprinkle of powdered sugar creates a gentle sweetness and a nice visual contrast. If you love extra warmth, dust cinnamon sugar over every sweet roll, building on the hints of cinnamon inside the batter.
Another favorite method is pouring maple syrup on top, so it seeps into every crevice. You might also combine sugar and maple syrup to thicken the drizzle. For a fruity pop, arrange fresh berries around the plate—blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries all work well with the rolls’ gentle sweetness. If you crave decadence, pair them with whipped cream or a little chocolate sauce.
Because this dish qualifies as a sweet breakfast that cooks in just minutes, it joins the list of easy breakfast recipes for a busy schedule. You can balance it with savory sides like bacon or eggs if you want a more complete meal. Whether you keep it basic or go all-out with toppings, the sweet bread foundation never disappoints.
Conclusion
Hawaiian sweet rolls make an excellent choice for anyone seeking a fresh take on a familiar morning staple. Their soft center and natural sweetness turn a standard plate of toast into something that stands out. Once you learn how to make hawaiian roll french toast, it may become your favorite weekend indulgence or a go-to whenever you want a quick yet impressive breakfast.
Many enthusiasts hail this method as the best french toast ever, pointing to how each bite manages to be moist but not overly soggy. Thanks to these rolls’ built-in sweetness, classic toppings like powdered sugar and maple syrup blend seamlessly for a balanced outcome. Whether you stick to a basic formula or experiment with tropical-inspired toppings, these rolls to make french toast are hard to rival in terms of taste and simplicity.
Feel free to expand the recipe for larger groups or to have leftovers you can reheat during the week. The rolls stay soft long enough to make a second or third batch without losing their quality. If a sweet breakfast is your style, you’ll appreciate how these tender, slightly sugary rolls bring a comforting warmth to the table every single time.
Check out our Breakfast Pastries recipe for flaky, buttery pastries filled with delicious flavors.
FAQs
How long can you leave Hawaiian rolls out?
You can leave Hawaiian rolls at room temperature for about two to three days if they’re stored in a sealed bag or covered container. King’s hawaiian rolls often remain soft longer than some other breads, but leaving them exposed to air will dry them out faster.
Can you use Hawaiian rolls for French toast?
Yes. Many cooks use Hawaiian rolls for French toast because they deliver a sweeter, richer taste than a traditional french toast bread such as french bread or challah bread. The soft texture of the rolls makes them ideal for absorbing the egg mixture without falling apart.
Why are my French toast sticks soggy?
French toast sticks turn soggy if they’re left in the batter too long or if the cooking surface isn’t hot enough. Overcrowding the pan can also cause excess moisture buildup. A brief soak and a properly heated skillet help maintain a crisp outer layer.
Can you eat Hawaiian rolls without heating them up?
Yes. You can enjoy these sweet rolls straight from the package. They’re soft, flavorful, and ready to eat. Some people choose to toast them lightly for a hint of crispness, but that’s optional. They’re just as good at room temperature for a quick snack.
Do Hawaiian rolls need to be cooked?
No. King’s hawaiian sweet rolls, for instance, are fully baked and safe to eat right out of the package. Many people warm them slightly for extra softness, but it isn’t mandatory. They come ready to enjoy as soon as you open the bag.
What is the best bread for French toast?
Many consider brioche bread, challah bread, or king’s hawaiian rolls to be top choices. Brioche bread and challah french toast are known for their rich, eggy quality, while hawaiian bread has a more delicate sweetness. The best option depends on personal taste, but these types are highly regarded for their results.
How fast do Hawaiian rolls go bad?
They typically last about a week when stored properly. Once opened, try to use them within a few days. Any exposure to too much heat or moisture may shorten their lifespan. If you notice an odd smell or signs of mold, discard them immediately.
How do you make Hawaiian rolls soft again?
You can pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for a few minutes or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This adds some moisture back into the bread. Avoid leaving them in too long, or they might dry out.
Can dogs eat Hawaiian bread?
A small piece of hawaiian bread is usually not harmful, but it contains sugar. Moderation is key, and it should never replace a balanced diet. Avoid giving dogs any bread with chocolate, raisins, or other potentially harmful ingredients. Consult with a veterinarian if you have specific concerns.
Additional Note: If you want more cooking tips and ideas, you can follow along on instagram with your favorite recipe creators who often share unique spins on french toast puffs, french toast rolls, and other sweet dishes.
hawaiian roll french toast
Ingredients
- Hawaiian Rolls (1 package about 12 rolls
- Eggs 4 large
- Heavy Cream ½ cup
- Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract 1 teaspoon
- Pinch of Salt
- Powdered Sugar for dusting
- Maple Syrup as desired
Instructions
Combine Your Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together four eggs, the heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. This forms the egg mixture that coats each roll. Whisk thoroughly so the brown sugar dissolves and the cinnamon spreads evenly. If you adore extra spice, stir in a bit more cinnamon here.
Prepare the Rolls
- Decide if you want smaller pieces or the look of intact rolls. You can tear the rolls into individual pieces or cut the rolls in half for a more compact size. If you like the appearance of classic french toast, keep each sweet roll whole. The key is allowing the hawaiian roll in the custard enough time to absorb flavors without getting overly soft.
Dip Each Hawaiian Roll
- Dip each hawaiian roll in the custard for a couple of seconds on each side. This gives the bread just enough time to soak in the mixture. Avoid leaving them in too long, or they may soak up too much liquid and lose their shape.
Heat Your Skillet
- Set a skillet over medium heat. Heat a large pan and add a little bit of butter or a small drizzle of oil. Once the butter foams slightly, the surface is ready for cooking. An evenly heated pan ensures uniform browning.
Cook the Rolls
- Arrange the coated rolls in the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for about two to three minutes per side, or until they become golden brown. You’ll see the edges turn crisp. Cooking the rolls in smaller batches prevents crowding and helps retain a good texture. Remove each finished group to a warm plate or tray while you finish subsequent sets.
Turn the Rolls for Even Browning
- Use a spatula to turn the rolls carefully. If they need more color, give them another minute on the heat. Aim for surfaces that are golden brown and crispy without burning. This step locks in flavor and prevents undercooking.
Serve and Enjoy
- After making the french toast, transfer the rolls to a serving plate. Drizzle sugar and maple syrup or dust each with powdered sugar. If you want a fresh, tart contrast, add fresh berries or sliced fruit. For an indulgent take, you can use whipped cream or a bit of chocolate sauce.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 9g
