If you’re dreaming of a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and bursts with sweet, comforting flavors, then this Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Fresh Berries and Maple Syrup Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Using soft, pillowy Hawaiian sweet rolls transforms ordinary French toast into a tender, fluffy delight, perfectly soaked in a rich custard brimming with vanilla and spices. Topped with juicy fresh berries and drizzled with real maple syrup, every bite is pure morning magic that’s impressively simple to whip up yet so decadently satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this recipe. Each one plays its part to give you a luscious texture, a hint of warmth, and that signature sweet aroma that makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Fresh Berries and Maple Syrup Recipe so irresistible.
- Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 count): These soft, slightly sweet rolls create the perfect base with their tender crumb and rich flavor.
- Large eggs (6): Eggs provide structure and richness to the custard that blankets each roll.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess and helps achieve that custard’s silky texture.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Boosts richness for a decadent mouthfeel while soaking the rolls evenly.
- Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Sweetens the custard just right without overpowering the natural flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses the custard with warm, aromatic notes that elevate every bite.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Brings a subtle spicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fruit topping.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Adds depth and a gentle nutty warmth to the flavor profile.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Butter (4 tbsp, divided): Creates a golden, crispy crust on your French toast while keeping it luscious inside.
- Optional toppings: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), whipped cream, chopped nuts, coconut flakes—each adds its own flair and texture for a show-stopping plate.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Fresh Berries and Maple Syrup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
Start by whisking together six large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Whisk until everything is fully blended and the mixture is smooth. This custard is the heart of your French toast, soaking the rolls with all those lovely flavors and giving them that irresistible, tender texture.
Step 2: Soak the Rolls
Gently separate each Hawaiian sweet roll, then dip them individually into the custard mixture. Let each roll soak for about 15 to 20 seconds on each side—you want them fully saturated but not so soggy they fall apart. This soak time allows the custard to work its magic, infusing every bite with luscious creaminess while maintaining the roll’s delicate shape.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Carefully place the soaked rolls onto the hot pan, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and beautifully caramelized. Repeat the process using the remaining butter for the next batch. This step is where the rolls turn into perfectly crisp-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside bites of morning joy.
Step 4: Serve It Up
Arrange the golden French toast rolls on serving plates and get ready for the fun part. Drizzle generously with pure maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and crown with a generous handful of fresh berries. If you feel like going all out, add whipped cream, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor contrast. Serve immediately and dive into this sunny, sweet slice of paradise!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Fresh Berries and Maple Syrup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries aren’t just for looks—they add vibrant color, juicy bursts, and a natural tartness that balances the sweet richness of the toast. A dusting of powdered sugar gives a touch of snowy elegance, while whipped cream or coconut flakes add fluffy lightness or a tropical twist that’s pure comfort.
Side Dishes
Pairing this French toast with crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage provides a perfect sweet-and-savory contrast. Freshly brewed coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice complements the meal beautifully, adding brightness and freshness to your breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the soaked Hawaiian rolls like mini towers for a playful, eye-catching presentation. For a brunch crowd, offer a toppings bar with nuts, whipped cream, coconut, and different syrups so everyone can customize their plate. Plating with edible flowers or a sprig of mint adds that extra wow factor, perfect for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining much of their delicious flavor and tenderness.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled French toast rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can enjoy fresh portions later. Frozen, they last up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated French toast in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, which helps crisp up the exterior without making them soggy. A quick zap in the microwave works too but might soften that lovely crust.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls add a uniquely sweet and soft texture, thick slices of brioche or challah work wonderfully too. Just make sure to adjust soak time based on bread density.
What can I do if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute extra whole milk for heavy cream, but the custard may be slightly less rich. Using cream adds that indulgent, velvety finish that makes this recipe shine.
How long should I soak the rolls?
Soak each roll about 15 to 20 seconds per side, just until saturated but still holding its shape. Too long and the bread will become soggy and tricky to cook evenly.
Can I prepare the custard mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the custard up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Give it a good whisk before using to recombine any settling ingredients.
Are there any good alternatives to fresh berries?
If fresh berries aren’t in season, frozen berries (thawed) or sliced stone fruits like peaches or nectarines also add delightful sweetness and color to your dish.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Fresh Berries and Maple Syrup Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a cozy weekend breakfast or a celebratory brunch. The way the sweet rolls soak up that creamy, spiced custard and then transform into golden little clouds of flavor is just pure joy. So grab those Hawaiian rolls and fresh berries, and treat yourself to a breakfast that feels special but comes together with ease. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Fresh Berries and Maple Syrup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional French toast by using sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls soaked in a rich custard mixture of eggs, milk, cream, and warm spices. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop to a golden brown, it’s an irresistible breakfast treat that can be topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, and nuts for a vibrant and delicious start to your day.
Ingredients
French Toast Base
- 1 package (12 count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts
- Coconut flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Soak the Rolls: Gently separate each Hawaiian roll. Dip each roll into the prepared custard mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. Let each roll soak for about 15 to 20 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb the custard without becoming too soggy or falling apart.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the soaked rolls in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Brown the Rolls: Cook the rolls for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a golden brown color and are cooked through. Use the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to cook the rest of the rolls, repeating the process until all rolls are done.
- Serve: Arrange the cooked French toast on serving plates. Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and add desired toppings such as fresh berries, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use whole milk and heavy cream for a richer, creamier custard, but you can substitute with lower-fat milk if preferred.
- Don’t soak the rolls too long to prevent them from becoming too soggy and falling apart during cooking.
- Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste; these spices add warm depth to the custard.
- Butter can be substituted with a neutral oil or non-dairy spread if needed.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the Hawaiian rolls with gluten-free sweet rolls.
- Serve immediately after cooking to maintain the crispy exterior and soft custard inside.
