If you’re ready to transform a classic breakfast favorite into the ultimate sweet, pillowy treat, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the dish you absolutely need in your life. Think fluffy, slightly caramelized rolls with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, soaking up that rich custard and frying to golden perfection. Each bite practically melts away, bringing together the tropical sweetness you love from Hawaiian rolls and the comfort of French toast in one irresistible package. Whether you’re gathering for a weekend brunch, treating yourself on a weekday morning, or impressing a crowd with something out of the ordinary, this version will delight everyone lucky enough to try it.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity: humble pantry staples come together with soft Hawaiian rolls to create an unforgettable breakfast moment. Each ingredient brings a touch of flavor, color, or that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast totally unique.

Eggs: Provide the base for your custard, ensuring a creamy, rich texture that soaks into every bite of the rolls.
Milk (whole or alternative): Adds moisture and helps the custard cling to each piece; whole milk gives richness, but any variety will work beautifully.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the French toast with warmth and classic bakery aroma.
Ground cinnamon: Brings a gentle spice that cozies up perfectly with the sweetness of the rolls.
Salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors, keeping your French toast from tasting flat.
Nutmeg: Lends subtle nutty warmth that makes the breakfast extra special.
Unsalted butter: Creates a golden, crisp crust on the outside of each roll and adds buttery flavor.
Hawaiian Rolls (King’s Hawaiian recommended): The hero of the recipe! Their soft, sweet, and fluffy texture transforms the French toast into a cloud-like treat.
Confectioners’ sugar (optional): A dusting on top adds a wistful touch of elegance and sweetness.
Maple syrup (optional): For drizzling over the finished dish, tying everything together with classic breakfast charm.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

Start by whisking together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg in a wide, deep bowl. Make sure your mixture is thoroughly combined—this ensures every roll gets evenly coated with all those lovely flavors. A wide bowl will make dipping the rolls easy and mess-free.

Step 2: Heat the Griddle or Skillet

Set your griddle or a large skillet over medium heat and brush it generously with a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Waiting until the pan is properly hot is key to achieving that golden, slightly crispy exterior everyone craves in Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 3: Dip the Hawaiian Rolls

Working in batches, take your horizontally sliced Hawaiian rolls and dip each piece into the custard mixture. You want them thoroughly saturated but not so soggy that they fall apart. Let any excess liquid drip off before you move to the pan—this keeps the final toast perfectly fluffy inside.

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Arrange the custard-dipped rolls on your hot griddle or skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown and just slightly crisp, then flip and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla will fill your kitchen—just try to resist sneaking a bite!

Step 5: Keep Warm and Finish Remaining Batches

Transfer the cooked rolls to a warm plate, covering loosely with foil if needed, while you repeat with the rest. Add a bit more butter between batches for that signature golden color and extra flavor. You’ll see how beautifully the Hawaiian Roll French Toast transforms with each batch.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Once all the rolls are cooked, pile them high on a serving platter. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and drizzle generously with maple syrup, if you like. This final touch gives an irresistible bakery-style finish and makes the French toast completely swoon-worthy.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Garnishes

Classic garnishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast include a snow-like sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar and a waterfall of warm maple syrup. For extra flair, toss on some fresh berries, thinly sliced bananas, or even a dollop of whipped cream. Each adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft, sweet toast.

Side Dishes

Round out your breakfast or brunch with a side of crisp bacon, juicy sausage links, or a fruit salad loaded with pineapple and mango for tropical vibes. These sides balance the sweetness of the French toast, creating a meal that feels hearty but never overly heavy.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to wow a brunch crowd, stack your Hawaiian Roll French Toast in a checkerboard pattern or layer with fresh fruit between slices for a colorful, festive effect. For an extra-special touch, serve individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or turn the toast into bite-sized sliders with a dab of mascarpone or cream cheese filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have extra Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Simply let it cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The rolls will keep their wonderful fluffy texture and can be quickly revived for another round of breakfast magic.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, arrange cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together. When you’re ready, just reheat as needed for a virtually instant breakfast treat.

Reheating

To bring your Hawaiian Roll French Toast back to life, reheat it in a toaster oven, oven, or air fryer set to 350°F for about 5 minutes, or until warm and lightly crisp. The microwave works for a quick fix but may soften the crust. However you reheat, you’ll be amazed at how deliciously fresh it tastes.

FAQs

Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast with dairy-free milk?

Absolutely! Any non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or coconut will work in place of regular milk. Just choose one with a flavor you love and a creamy texture for best results.

Is it better to use day-old Hawaiian rolls?

Day-old rolls soak up the custard even better than super fresh, making the French toast extra flavorful without getting soggy. If your rolls are super soft, lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes before dipping.

Can I use this recipe with different types of bread?

You can! While the magic of Hawaiian Roll French Toast is in the sweet, fluffy rolls, you can substitute with brioche sliders, dinner rolls, or thick challah in a pinch. Just adjust soak time as needed.

What toppings go well besides maple syrup?

In addition to maple syrup, try toppings like honey, fruit compotes, lemon curd, Nutella, or sprinkled toasted coconut. Get creative and mix and match your favorites for a breakfast that truly feels indulgent.

Can I prepare the custard mixture in advance?

Yes, you can whisk together the custard mixture the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before dipping the rolls to reincorporate any settled spices.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a breakfast that feels like a mini celebration, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is absolutely the recipe to try next. Every bite is soft, buttery, and sweetly satisfying—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you’re making a cozy weekend brunch or an everyday breakfast more special. Give it a go, and watch it become a new favorite at your breakfast table!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 20 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This delightful Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe transforms soft and sweet Hawaiian rolls into a decadent breakfast treat. The combination of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg infused into each fluffy roll makes for a truly indulgent morning meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a wide, deep bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
Heat Griddle or Skillet: Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat and brush with 1 Tbsp of butter.
Dip and Toast the Rolls: Dip Hawaiian roll halves into the egg mixture, ensuring they are saturated but not dripping, then place on the heated griddle. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
Keep Warm and Serve: Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate, keeping it warm while you continue cooking the remaining rolls. Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of orange zest to the egg mixture.
Feel free to customize your toppings with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dollop of yogurt.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Griddling
Cuisine: American