Picture this: golden, caramelized edges hugging a custardy-sweet center, all wrapped in the soft embrace of Hawaiian rolls. Sounds like breakfast heaven, right? Hawaiian Roll French Toast is here to rescue your mornings with its irresistible combo of buttery sweetness and cozy warmth—no fancy skills required.
Fun fact: Hawaiian rolls were invented in the 1960s by a Portuguese baker in Hawaii, who blended tropical sweetness with pillowy texture. I discovered this hack during a holiday brunch crunch, and now it’s my go-to for lazy weekends and impressing overnight guests. Unlike my Cinnamon Roll Bundt Cake (which is delicious but time-consuming), this version skips slicing bread and uses ready-to-bake rolls for a 15-minute miracle. Ready to turn humble rolls into a breakfast masterpiece? Let’s flip the script!
What Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Why Hawaiian rolls? Well, why not Hawaiian rolls? These fluffy, honey-kissed buns (originally invented in 1960s Hawaii) are French toast’s soulmate—no more sad, soggy bread slices!
I call this dish “breakfast diplomacy” because it’s guaranteed to settle morning grumpiness (even from teens). As they say, the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach—and these caramelized, custard-soaked rolls are pure love on a plate. Skeptical? One bite, and you’ll name your firstborn after this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This 3-Step Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Crave-Worthy Texture: Hawaiian rolls soak up the custard like a dream, baking up crispy outside and cloud-soft inside.
- Cheaper Than Brunch: Skip the 20cafeˊbill!Thisrecipecostsunder20cafeˊbill!Thisrecipecostsunder10 and feeds six.
- Topping Playground: Drench in maple syrup, add fresh berries, or sprinkle with powdered sugar for Insta-worthy flair.
If you’re obsessed with my Blueberry Cottage Cheese Muffins, you’ll flip for this simpler (but just as decadent) twist. Ready to brunch like a boss?
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Quick Overview: Ready in 15 minutes! The secret? Hawaiian rolls’ built-in sweetness and pull-apart ease.
Key Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls (keep them connected!)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or almond)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Butter or oil for cooking
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Whisk Custard: Beat eggs, milk, honey, vanilla, and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- Soak Rolls: Dip the entire slab of connected rolls into the custard for 2 minutes per side.
- Cook: Melt butter in a skillet. Cook rolls 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Serve warm!
Perfect Pairings for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Savory Balance: Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage.
- Fresh Contrast: Mixed berries or sliced bananas.
- Drinks: Cold brew coffee or mango smoothies.
Pro Tips for Flawless Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Don’t Over-Soak: 2 minutes per side max—Hawaiian rolls absorb liquid FAST.
- Use Day-Old Rolls: Slightly stale = better custard absorption.
- Low Heat: Cook on medium-low to avoid burning the honey glaze.
Storing & Reheating:
- Fridge: Keep leftovers airtight for 2 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly for up to 1 month.
- Reheat: 10 seconds in the microwave or 5 minutes in a 350°F oven.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular bread instead?
A: Sure, but Hawaiian rolls add sweetness and texture you can’t replicate!
Q: Can I prep this overnight?
A: Yes! Assemble the soaked rolls in the skillet, cover, and refrigerate. Cook in the AM.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t just breakfast—it’s a mood-lifting, crowd-pleasing, syrup-drizzled hug. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this 3-step wonder proves that greatness comes in small (roll-sized) packages. Craving more? Try my English Muffin Breakfast Pizza next. Spoiler: They’re almost as addictive.