Oh friends, have I got a treat for you today! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is, hands down, one of the most delicious breakfast creations I’ve ever sunk my teeth into. We’re talking sweet, pillowy clouds of cinnamon-sugar bliss that practically melt in your mouth. Perfect for family brunches or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and delightful texture.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the French Toast Base
- For Cooking
- For Garnish
- How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
- Step 2: Soak the Rolls
- Step 3: Cook the Rolls
- Step 4: Serve
- How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Classic Toppings
- Creative Additions
- Savory Pairings
- How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
- How do I make gluten-free Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- What toppings work best with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- Can I prepare this ahead of time?
- How many servings does this recipe yield?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup to suit your taste.
- Deliciously Sweet Flavor: The combination of Hawaiian rolls and cinnamon creates a uniquely sweet and comforting dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a weekend treat, this French toast fits right in.
- Kid-Friendly: Children love the soft texture and sweetness, making it an ideal choice for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
To create the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, having the right tools will make your experience even smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Toothpick or skewer
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet or griddle: Prevents sticking and allows for easy flipping of the rolls.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to whisk ingredients together thoroughly.
- Whisk: Ensures all ingredients are evenly combined for maximum flavor.
- Spatula: Helps flip the rolls without damaging them during cooking.
Ingredients
For the French Toast Base
- 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
For Cooking
- 4 tablespoons butter, for cooking
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit
- Maple syrup for serving

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and half and half until fully combined. Then add the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2: Soak the Rolls
Use a toothpick or skewer to poke several holes in the bottom of each roll so that the custard can soak in effectively. Working in batches, dip each roll into the custard mixture and let them soak for about 30 seconds. Be sure to turn them to coat all sides without letting them get too soggy.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Carefully place the soaked rolls onto the skillet. Cook each side for about 30-60 seconds until golden brown. Use a spatula to turn them gently to achieve crispness on all sides.
Step 4: Serve
Once cooked, serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm. Dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries and maple syrup as desired. Enjoy this sweet breakfast delight!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be as delightful as making it. You can elevate your breakfast or brunch experience with a variety of toppings and sides to complement the sweetness of the rolls. Here are some tasty serving suggestions that will make your French toast even more irresistible.
Classic Toppings
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a sweet finish and looks beautiful.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle on top for that classic flavor pairing with French toast.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add color and freshness.
Creative Additions
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it enhances the sweetness of the dish.
- Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut for a tropical twist that complements the Hawaiian rolls.
- Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter provides a nutty flavor and extra protein.
Savory Pairings
- Bacon or Sausage: The salty, savory elements balance the sweet flavors of the French toast.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds creaminess and tang, enhancing the overall taste.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Perfecting Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out fluffy and delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Rolls: Fresh King’s Hawaiian Rolls soak up custard better than stale ones.
- Don’t Over-soak: Keep soaking time short (30 seconds) to avoid sogginess; you want them custardy but not mushy.
- Preheat Your Pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the butter for a nice golden brown crust.
- Cook on Medium-Low Heat: This allows for even cooking without burning while ensuring the inside gets cooked through.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add citrus zest or flavored extracts to the custard mixture for unique twists.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy while hot for the best texture and flavor experience.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Roll French Toast can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some great options that work beautifully alongside this sweet breakfast treat.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch balances the sweetness of the French toast perfectly.
- Sausage Links: Juicy sausage links provide a hearty addition that complements breakfast favorites.
- Mixed Fruit Salad: A refreshing blend of seasonal fruits adds a nutritious touch to your plate.
- Breakfast Potatoes: Roasted or fried potatoes serve as a savory counterpoint to sweet dishes.
- Eggs Any Style: Scrambled, poached, or fried eggs add protein and round out your meal nicely.
- Oven-Baked Cinnamon Apples: Warm spiced apples create an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with cinnamon-sugar bliss.
- Smoothie Bowl: A light smoothie bowl brings in freshness and is a vibrant contrast to rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Hawaiian Roll French Toast even more delightful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Over-soaking the rolls: It’s tempting to let the rolls soak longer, but too much time in the custard can lead to sogginess. Stick to 30 seconds for best results.
- Using stale rolls: Freshness matters! Stale Hawaiian rolls won’t absorb the custard well. Always opt for fresh rolls for a fluffy texture.
- Not preheating the skillet: Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the soaked rolls for that perfect golden crust.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your custard mixture before dipping. You might want to add more cinnamon or sugar based on your preference.
- Skipping toppings: Don’t overlook the finishing touches! Adding powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or maple syrup elevates the dish and makes it visually appealing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag for added protection.
- Frozen Hawaiian Roll French Toast will stay good for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place one piece on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 20-30 seconds. Check and heat longer if needed, but be careful not to overdo it!
- Stovetop: Warm a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little butter and cook each side for about 1-2 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes, you can use regular bread, but it won’t have the same sweetness or texture as Hawaiian rolls.
How do I make gluten-free Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
You can substitute Hawaiian rolls with gluten-free bread options available in stores. Follow the same recipe instructions for best results.
What toppings work best with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Fresh berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup are fantastic choices. You can also try nut butter or yogurt for added flavor!
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the rolls a few hours ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 12 servings, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts!
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The soft, sweet texture combined with customizable toppings makes it a crowd-pleaser at any breakfast table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or additional ingredients—your creativity is welcome here! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Hawaiian Roll French Toast, a breakfast masterpiece that combines the soft sweetness of King’s Hawaiian rolls with a rich custard blend. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, featuring a heavenly texture that melts in your mouth, enhanced by the warm notes of cinnamon and sugar. Elevate your brunch with customizable toppings like fresh berries, maple syrup, or whipped cream, making each bite an unforgettable treat. Easy to prepare in just 15 minutes, this recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any palate. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this irresistible breakfast delight!
Ingredients
- 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and half and half until combined. Add vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt; mix well.
- Poke holes in the bottom of each roll using a toothpick. Dip each roll into the custard mixture for about 30 seconds, ensuring even coating without becoming soggy.
- Heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Cook soaked rolls for about 30-60 seconds per side until golden brown.
- Serve warm topped with powdered sugar and fresh fruit or syrup as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg





