Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the ultimate combination of sweetness and fluffiness, making it a standout choice for breakfast or brunch. This dish transforms the soft, buttery texture of Hawaiian sweet rolls into a golden, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside delight. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or looking for a quick weekday treat, this recipe offers the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity.
The best part? You can make this dish in just 20 minutes! That means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality breakfast at home without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, Hawaiian rolls’ natural sweetness and pillowy texture make them ideal for absorbing the rich custard mixture, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to create this delicious recipe, from the ingredients to pro tips for achieving the perfect golden-brown toast. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this mouthwatering treat in no time!
Table of Contents
What Makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast Special?
Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t your average breakfast dish—it’s a unique twist on a classic that elevates the flavor and texture to new heights. Here’s what makes it so special:
The Unique Sweetness of Hawaiian Rolls
Hawaiian rolls are known for their distinctively sweet and buttery flavor, which adds a depth of richness to the French toast. Unlike regular bread, these rolls have a slight hint of tropical sweetness that pairs perfectly with the custard mixture. The natural sweetness means you don’t need to rely on added sugar in the batter, allowing the rolls’ flavor to shine through.
Why Hawaiian Rolls Create Fluffy and Rich French Toast
The soft, pillowy texture of Hawaiian rolls sets them apart from other types of bread. Their light, airy structure absorbs the custard mixture beautifully, ensuring every bite is moist, tender, and flavorful. Plus, the rolls’ slightly denser crust gives the French toast a satisfying golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside irresistibly fluffy.
Perfect for Breakfast, Brunch, or Even Dessert
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is versatile and fits any occasion. Serve it as a quick, sweet breakfast to start your day on a high note, or turn it into an elegant centerpiece for brunch with friends. With the right toppings—like fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream—it can even double as a decadent dessert. This dish’s balance of sweet and savory makes it a crowd-pleaser for any time of day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Hawaiian Roll French Toast is how simple and accessible the ingredients are. With a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh additions, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight out of a café. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
- The star of the recipe, Hawaiian sweet rolls provide the perfect balance of sweetness and fluffiness. Their soft texture absorbs the custard beautifully, while their slightly sweet flavor complements the richness of the French toast.
- Eggs
- Eggs are the foundation of the custard mixture, giving the French toast its creamy texture and helping the rolls hold together during cooking.
- Milk
- Whole milk is ideal for a rich and creamy custard base, but you can substitute with almond, oat, or any other milk for a dairy-free version.
- Vanilla Extract
- A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth of flavor to the custard, enhancing the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
- Cinnamon
- Ground cinnamon gives the dish a hint of spice and aroma, making the French toast irresistibly cozy and flavorful.
- Butter
- For cooking, butter ensures a golden, crispy crust on the French toast while adding a rich, buttery taste.
Optional Toppings to Elevate the Dish
- Maple Syrup
- A classic addition, maple syrup adds a rich, sweet finish to the French toast.
- Powdered Sugar
- A light dusting of powdered sugar makes the dish visually appealing and adds a delicate sweetness.
- Fresh Berries
- Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of all three provide a burst of freshness and color to the plate.
- Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream makes this dish feel extra indulgent, especially for brunch or dessert.
- Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle
- For a dessert-like twist, add a drizzle of caramel or melted chocolate on top.
Ingredient Substitutions and Tips
- Dairy-Free Alternatives
- Replace whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version that’s just as creamy.
- Extra Flavor Options
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard mixture for a more complex flavor profile.
- Bread Alternatives
- If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls, brioche or challah bread can be used as substitutes, though they won’t offer the same unique sweetness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is quick, easy, and satisfying. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Each step ensures your French toast turns out golden, fluffy, and packed with flavor.

Preparing the Hawaiian Rolls
- Slice or Leave Whole:
- Decide whether to slice the Hawaiian rolls in half or keep them whole. Slicing creates flat surfaces for even cooking, while leaving them whole results in cute, bite-sized French toast pieces with a slightly crispier outside.
- Arrange on a Plate or Tray:
- Place the rolls on a plate or tray for easy handling. If they’re slightly stale, they’ll absorb the custard better, so don’t worry about using day-old rolls.
Creating the Custard Mixture
- Whisk the Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk for creaminess or almond/oat milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional: add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor)
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Ensure a Smooth Consistency:
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the cinnamon is evenly distributed. This ensures each roll gets coated with the same delicious flavor.
- Prepare for Dipping:
- Pour the custard into a shallow dish or bowl, making it easier to dip the rolls.
Soaking the Rolls in Custard
- Dip Quickly:
- Dip each Hawaiian roll into the custard, turning it over to coat all sides. Be careful not to let the rolls soak too long to avoid sogginess.
- Let Excess Drip Off:
- Allow any excess custard to drip off before transferring the rolls to a plate. This prevents the pan from becoming messy during cooking.
Cooking the French Toast
- Heat the Pan:
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a pat of butter. Let it melt and evenly coat the surface.
- Cook Until Golden-Brown:
- Place the custard-coated rolls onto the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden-brown. If cooking whole rolls, rotate them to cook all sides evenly.
- Work in Batches:
- Cook the rolls in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring they cook evenly and maintain their shape.
Serve Immediately:
- Plate and Garnish:
- Transfer the cooked rolls to a serving plate. For added flair, dust with powdered sugar or arrange with fresh berries.
- Add Toppings:
- Drizzle with maple syrup, caramel, or melted chocolate, and top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
- Enjoy While Warm:
- Hawaiian Roll French Toast is best served warm, fresh off the pan, for the perfect combination of crispy edges and soft, custardy centers.
Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
To ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfectly every time, it’s helpful to follow a few expert tips. These will help you achieve the ideal balance of crispy, golden-brown exteriors and soft, custardy interiors while keeping the process stress-free.
How to Avoid Soggy French Toast
- Limit Soaking Time:
- Hawaiian rolls are naturally soft and absorb liquid quickly, so avoid soaking them in the custard mixture for too long. A quick dip on each side (3–5 seconds) is usually sufficient to coat the rolls without making them overly saturated.
- Use Slightly Stale Rolls:
- Day-old Hawaiian rolls are better for French toast because they are less likely to fall apart when soaked. If your rolls are fresh, you can dry them slightly by leaving them out for a few hours or toasting them lightly before dipping.
- Drain Excess Custard:
- After dipping, allow excess custard to drip off before placing the rolls on the skillet. This helps avoid a soggy texture and ensures the rolls cook evenly.
Choosing the Right Pan and Temperature
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle:
- A non-stick surface ensures your French toast won’t stick or tear during cooking. If you’re making large batches, a griddle provides more space to cook multiple pieces at once.
- Cook on Medium Heat:
- Medium heat is ideal for achieving a golden-brown crust without burning the toast. High heat may cause the outside to cook too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.
- Add Butter in Batches:
- Use butter for cooking, as it adds flavor and helps create a crispy exterior. Add a small amount of butter to the pan before each batch to maintain even browning and prevent sticking.
Presentation Tips for Serving
- Arrange Thoughtfully:
- Stack or fan out the French toast pieces on a plate for a visually appealing presentation. For mini bites, arrange them in a circular pattern or in neat rows.
- Add Colorful Toppings:
- Fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of syrup not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish look vibrant and appetizing.
- Serve Immediately:
- Hawaiian Roll French Toast is best enjoyed warm, as the crispy edges and soft centers are at their peak right off the skillet. If serving a crowd, keep cooked pieces warm in a 200°F (90°C) oven until ready to serve.
Pro Tips for Extra Flavor and Texture
- Enhance the Custard Mixture:
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist, or sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth.
- Experiment with Fillings:
- Slice the rolls and fill them with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves before dipping them in the custard for a stuffed French toast variation.
- Incorporate Crunch:
- For extra texture, coat the dipped rolls with crushed cornflakes or shredded coconut before cooking. This creates a crispy, flavorful crust.
Variations and Pairings for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste or the occasion. From sweet indulgences to savory surprises, and perfect pairings that elevate the dish, here are some creative ideas to try.

Sweet Variations to Try
- Stuffed French Toast
- Take your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to the next level by stuffing the rolls with fillings like:
- Cream cheese and strawberry jam for a rich, fruity twist.
- Nutella and banana slices for a decadent, chocolatey treat.
- Peanut butter and honey for a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
- Take your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to the next level by stuffing the rolls with fillings like:
- Tropical Paradise Twist
- Embrace the tropical roots of Hawaiian rolls by topping your French toast with:
- Fresh pineapple chunks, shredded coconut, and a drizzle of honey.
- A mango or passionfruit glaze for a fruity, tangy topping.
- Embrace the tropical roots of Hawaiian rolls by topping your French toast with:
- Crispy Coated French Toast
- Before cooking, coat the dipped rolls in crushed cornflakes, graham crackers, or shredded coconut. This adds a crunchy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Delight
- Add cocoa powder to the custard mixture or sprinkle chocolate chips on top while cooking. Finish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an over-the-top dessert version.
Savory Twist Ideas
- Cheesy Stuffed Rolls
- Instead of a sweet filling, stuff the rolls with shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) before dipping them in the custard. Serve with a side of marinara or a dollop of sour cream for a savory brunch option.
- Bacon-Wrapped French Toast
- Wrap each roll with a slice of bacon before cooking for a salty, crispy addition to the dish.
- Herb-Infused Custard
- Skip the vanilla and cinnamon and instead season the custard mixture with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Serve with a side of scrambled eggs for a savory breakfast feast.
- Topped with Eggs and Sausage
- Pair your French toast with a fried egg and sausage links to create a savory-sweet breakfast platter.
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Breakfast
- Fresh Fruit and Smoothies
- Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or orange slices for a refreshing balance. Pair it with a tropical smoothie made of pineapple, banana, and coconut milk for a cohesive tropical theme.
- Beverage Pairings
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee or a latte balances the sweetness of the French toast.
- Tea: Herbal teas, especially those with hints of cinnamon or fruit, complement the flavors beautifully.
- Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice or a tangy grapefruit juice cuts through the richness.
- Side Dishes for Brunch
- Add savory sides like crispy bacon, sausage links, or scrambled eggs to create a well-rounded brunch. For a lighter option, pair with a simple green salad or avocado slices.
- Dessert-Inspired Pairings
- If serving as dessert, consider pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a truly indulgent treat.
Why Experimenting with Variations Matters
By trying different variations and pairings, you can adapt Hawaiian Roll French Toast to fit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch, creating a themed breakfast, or satisfying a dessert craving, these ideas ensure that the dish remains fresh and exciting every time you make it.
FAQs
Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
Yes! While it’s best served fresh, you can make it ahead by preparing and cooking the French toast, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore its crispiness before serving.
What can I use instead of Hawaiian rolls?
If you don’t have Hawaiian rolls, brioche, challah, or even soft dinner rolls are great substitutes. These breads have a similar sweetness and fluffy texture, making them ideal for French toast.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative or coconut oil for cooking.
What are some ways to keep my French toast from becoming soggy?
To avoid sogginess, limit the soaking time in the custard to 3–5 seconds per side. Also, use slightly stale Hawaiian rolls as they absorb less moisture and maintain their structure better.
What are some unique toppings I can try?
Get creative with toppings! Some ideas include fresh tropical fruits (pineapple, mango), a drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup, crushed nuts, or even a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a tropical twist. For a savory option, top with crispy bacon or a fried egg.
Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a delightful experience that combines sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls with a rich, custard-like coating for a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re making it for a quick weekday breakfast, a relaxing weekend brunch, or even as a dessert, this dish is versatile enough to shine on any occasion.
The simplicity of the recipe means you don’t need to be a professional chef to create something extraordinary. With just a few basic ingredients—Hawaiian sweet rolls, eggs, milk, and a touch of cinnamon—you can transform humble pantry staples into a mouthwatering masterpiece in just 20 minutes. And by incorporating creative variations and pairings, like tropical fruit toppings, stuffed rolls, or savory twists, you can customize this dish to suit your mood and preferences.
The beauty of Hawaiian Roll French Toast lies in its ability to bring people together. It’s a dish that evokes smiles, sparks conversations, and creates lasting memories, whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or enjoying a quiet moment of indulgence for yourself.