During a weekend snowstorm, my book group convened in my kitchen since our usual café delayed opening. I’d set out board games and mugs of hot cocoa, wanting something sweet that matched the cozy scene outside the frosted windows.
I remembered a bag of King’s Hawaiian rolls tucked in my pantry—soft, slightly sweet, perfect for an indulgent twist on classic French toast. While the group set up the table, I whisked eggs with cream, vanilla, brown sugar, and just a touch of cinnamon.
As I pricked each roll with a toothpick to help it drink in flavor, the kitchen smelled warm and comforting, like fresh coffee and winter mornings. I fried them gently in butter until each side glowed golden and crisp. When I laid the rolls on the platter, powdered sugar dusted like fresh snow, and the berries gleamed with color.
Everyone savored bites, commenting on the sweet richness and crisp edges. We lingered over conversation and cocoa, the rain (or snow) forgotten. That morning, I realized this simple treat had turned a chilly afternoon into a gathering of warmth and smiles.
Short Description
Hawaiian Roll French Toast uses sweet dinner rolls soaked in a vanilla‑cinnamon custard, pan‑fried to golden perfection, and served with berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup for a cozy breakfast treat.
Key Ingredients
- 12 King’s Hawaiian rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 180 ml half and half or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- Pinch fine sea salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
- Powdered sugar, fresh fruits, maple syrup (to serve)
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl and whisk
- Toothpick or skewer
- Nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving platter
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Whisk Custard
In a bowl, whisk 3 eggs with 180 ml half and half until smooth. Add vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt; blend thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Poke rolls several times with a toothpick for even absorption. Dip each roll into custard for 30 seconds, turning to coat all sides. Avoid oversoaking.
Step 3: Fry Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons butter on skillet over medium-low heat until foam subsides. Cook rolls in batches, browning all sides for 30–60 seconds per side. Use the remaining butter between batches.
Step 4: Serve
Arrange warm rolls on a platter. Dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh berries and serve with maple syrup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor Explosion: Sweet, buttery rolls soak up custard, creating golden‑crisp French toast with a gentle crunch.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Kid-Approved: Sweet taste, soft interior—kids adore the texture and flavor.
Elegant Presentation: Crisp edges dusted with sugar and berries make it feel special.
Versatile: Great for brunch, cozy mornings, or a festive treat for guests.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Soggy Rolls:
Solution: Don’t oversoak—30 seconds is enough. Ensure sides are crisped in the pan.
Burnt Edges:
Solution: Keep heat medium‑low and watch the butter foam; adjust heat as needed.
Custard Not Mixing:
Solution: Whisk until egg and milk blend fully. Break up any sugar clumps before dipping.
Uneven Browning:
Solution: Rotate rolls evenly while frying for consistent golden color.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve stacked on a broad platter for brunch
Pair with fresh berries, a dollop of yogurt, or whipped cream
Offer a side of bacon or sausage for savory-sweet contrast
Best for buffet‑style gatherings or relaxed family-style meals
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Cover cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Reheat: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness
Avoid Microwave: It makes them soft and soggy—oven is best
FAQs
1. Can I use stale rolls?
Yes, slightly day-old rolls absorb custard better, offering a custardy interior.
2. Can I use light milk instead of half and half?
You can, but texture will be less rich, add a splash of cream if available.
3. Do I need to pierce the rolls?
Yes, small holes help prevent soggy centers by allowing even soaking.
4. Can I prep ahead?
Dip rolls in custard, refrigerate up to 2 hours, then fry just before serving.
5. Can I use regular dinner rolls?
Yes, just note flavor changes; Hawaiian rolls bring sweetness and tenderness.
Tips & Tricks
Whisk custard until frothy for fluffier texture
Rotate rolls fully to brown each face evenly
Use a baking sheet to keep cooked rolls warm in a low oven
Dust with sugar just before serving for an elegant look
Experiment with flavored syrups, like berry or bourbon-maple, for variety
Recipe Variations
Berry-Infused French Toast
Add a tablespoon of lemon zest to custard. Top with macerated berries.
Coconut-Almond Twist
Sprinkle toasted coconut and sliced almonds over warm rolls. Serve with coconut syrup.
Savory-Sweet
Skip sugar in custard. Add shredded cheddar to rolls after cooking. Serve with bacon.
Chai-Spiced Custard
Substitute cinnamon with mixed chai spices—clove, cardamom, nutmeg—for fall flavor.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Roll French Toast carries the sweetness of leisurely mornings and the feel of delicious nostalgia in every bite. That quiet snow-day brunch with friends reminded me that simple, thoughtful food connects people.
Each roll—golden, crisp, warm—brings smiles, conversation, and comfort to the table. I hope this recipe brightens your mornings and creates a moment of gentle indulgence in your day.
Step 1: Make the Custard Step 2: Soak the Rolls Step 3: Cook the Rolls Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Print This
Ingredients
Instructions
Whisk eggs and half and half in a bowl. Add vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well.
Poke the bottoms of the rolls with a toothpick. Dip each one in the custard for 30 seconds, turning to coat. Don’t soak too long.
Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook rolls in batches, browning all sides. Add more butter as needed.
Place rolls on a platter. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, top with berries, and drizzle with maple syrup.
