Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

If you’re ready to breathe fresh island vibes into your brunch routine, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is your next must-make treat. Imagine soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls soaked in a lush vanilla-cinnamon custard and cooked to golden perfection: each bite is fluffy on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and outright irresistible. It’s perfect for lazy mornings, family gatherings, or when you’re simply craving French toast with a tropical twist. Get ready to watch these disappear — nobody can resist the magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of simple, everyday ingredients join forces to make such an unforgettable breakfast. Each component has an important role: from the creamy base to the sweet finish, every bite of Hawaiian Roll French Toast is pure comfort and indulgence.

• Hawaiian rolls (12, left whole or split): Their pillowy texture and subtle sweetness set this French toast apart from anything you’ve tried before.
• Eggs (4 large): These create the rich, custardy coating that defines classic French toast.
• Whole milk (½ cup): Helps the mixture soak beautifully into the rolls for that perfect level of moistness.
• Heavy cream (¼ cup): Adds just the right amount of richness for a truly decadent result.
• Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Provides balanced sweetness and helps create those glorious toasty edges.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Gives warmth and rounds out the flavor – don’t skip it!
• Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon): For a gentle spice note that makes French toast so inviting.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors (trust me, it makes a difference!).
• Butter (1 tablespoon, for the pan): Delivers golden, crispy exteriors and that classic buttery finish.
• Optional toppings: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream turn your Hawaiian Roll French Toast into a personalized masterpiece.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Whisk the Custard

Start by grabbing your largest mixing bowl. Crack in the eggs, then pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Give everything a good whisk until the mixture is completely smooth — you want every last bit of cinnamon and sugar well-dispersed, so every bite of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast sings with flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Rolls

If you prefer a dramatic, “pull-apart” look, keep the Hawaiian rolls attached and simply slice them in half horizontally like a giant sandwich. For more individually portioned pieces, you can separate them first. Both approaches work, just be sure the insides are exposed to eagerly soak up the custard.

Step 3: Dip (Don’t Dunk!)

Gently dip each roll (or the big sliced slab) into the custard, letting it soak up the mixture for a few seconds per side. Don’t rush, but also don’t let them get soggy — a quick, even coating is ideal so they stay luscious without falling apart. Let any excess drip off before moving to the pan.

Step 4: Sizzle and Toast

Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the butter. Once it’s foamy, arrange the soaked rolls cut-side down. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, flipping gently, until each piece is deeply golden and the custard is set. Work in batches if needed, adding a little more butter for each.

Step 5: Plate and Enjoy

Serve up your warm Hawaiian Roll French Toast right away, with a cascade of maple syrup, a shower of powdered sugar, fresh berries, and perhaps a lofty swirl of whipped cream. This is the good life, right here at your breakfast table.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Garnishes

Garnishes are your chance to bring out the wow-factor and tailor your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to your taste. A classic pour of maple syrup is always a hit, but don’t overlook a generous flurry of powdered sugar, a handful of bright berries, or a dollop of pillowy whipped cream. For a truly tropical touch, try a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a cascade of diced fresh pineapple!

Side Dishes

To round out your brunch spread, serve your French toast with savory sides like crispy bacon or smoky breakfast sausage. For something lighter, go with a platter of fresh fruit or a tangy fruit salad. Even a creamy Greek yogurt parfait pairs wonderfully with the richness of the Hawaiian rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is as fun to serve as it is to eat. Try arranging whole “loaves” and letting guests pull apart their own rolls, or cut rolls into thick “sticks” for dipping. If you love a surprise, stuff rolls with sweetened cream cheese or chocolate-hazelnut spread before dipping them in custard — every bite will reveal a delightful, gooey center!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing. Slip the French toast into an airtight container or resealable bag and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the rolls tender and prevents them from drying out.

Freezing

To keep your Hawaiian Roll French Toast for the longer haul, wrap cooled pieces individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a month. When you need a quick sweet breakfast, simply grab as many pieces as you need.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer (350°F for 3–5 minutes) until hot and crisped up — this restores the golden edges and fluffy centers. The microwave works for a soft finish, but a hot skillet will also do the trick if you want to refresh that toasty exterior.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?

You can, but the unique sweetness and tender texture of Hawaiian rolls are what give this recipe its signature charm. Brioche or challah are good substitutes, but for that iconic flavor, stick with the Hawaiian originals whenever possible!

Is this okay to make ahead for a crowd?

Absolutely! You can prep everything the night before (keep the dipped rolls refrigerated on a tray, covered), then cook them fresh in the morning. They also hold up well in a warm oven (around 200°F) for 20–30 minutes until you’re ready to serve.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use your favorite non-dairy milk and a plant-based cream substitute. Swap butter for coconut oil or a non-dairy spread and you’ll still have deliciously tender and flavorful Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?

Don’t oversaturate the rolls when dipping—just a few seconds per side is perfect. If your rolls are very fresh and extra soft, let them sit for 10–15 minutes uncovered to dry out slightly before dipping.

What’s the best way to stuff the rolls?

Slice each Hawaiian roll partway through, then fill with a generous spoonful of sweetened cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves before dipping in the custard. Seal gently and proceed as directed for a surprise-filled twist!

Final Thoughts

Brunch truly doesn’t get more exciting than a plateful of Hawaiian Roll French Toast — it’s the kind of feel-good breakfast that everyone remembers. Whether you keep it classic or try a creative stuffing, this is a recipe begging to be shared. Lay out your toppings, gather your favorite people, and get ready to fall in love with every sweet, fluffy, tropical bite!

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