If you’ve never tried Hawaiian Roll French Toast, you’re about to fall in love with your new favorite breakfast treat. This twist on the traditional French toast uses irresistibly soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls to create a buttery, fluffy, golden-brown breakfast you’ll crave every weekend. Perfectly paired with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruits, this indulgent delight is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a cozy brunch, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is bound to become a regular on your menu.
🔧 Recipe Preparation Equipment
Before you start, make sure you have these tools on hand to make the process smooth and efficient:
- Non-stick skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Shallow dish (for egg mixture)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife (for separating or slicing rolls)
- Tongs (optional for flipping)
🥖 What Do You Need to Prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Here’s everything you’ll need to turn those delicious rolls into French toast magic:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pack of King’s Hawaiian Rolls (12 rolls, left whole or pulled apart)
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the skillet)
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Fresh fruits (strawberries, blueberries, bananas)
- Nutella or peanut butter drizzle
🧑🍳 How to Make Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast Step-by-Step ?
Transforming simple rolls into a golden breakfast treasure is easier than you think.
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or half-and-half), vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined and slightly frothy.
Step 2: Dip the Rolls
You can leave the Hawaiian rolls connected in a group or pull them apart individually for bite-sized pieces. Dip them gently into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak for a few seconds on each side, but not so long that they fall apart.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter and allow it to melt and bubble slightly—this prevents sticking and adds a delicious richness.
Step 4: Cook the Rolls
Place the soaked rolls onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy. Turn carefully using a spatula or tongs to keep them intact.
Step 5: Serve Warm with Toppings
Remove the rolls from the skillet and plate them. Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit, or any of your favorite toppings. Serve immediately while warm and fluffy.
🍓 Variations
The beauty of Hawaiian Roll French Toast lies in its versatility. While the classic version is already a hit, you can customize it to fit any taste or occasion. For a tropical twist, add crushed pineapple to your egg mixture and top with toasted coconut flakes. Craving something indulgent? Try stuffing the rolls with cream cheese or Nutella before dipping them in the egg wash—this turns breakfast into dessert.
If you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a shortcut, consider making a baked casserole version: arrange soaked rolls in a greased baking dish, pour the remaining egg mixture over them, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
You can also play with the spice profile by adding a pinch of nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or cardamom to the mix. Want to make it savory? Add a bit of grated cheese and chopped herbs, then serve with crispy bacon or eggs on the side for a brunch-worthy delight.
🍳 Cooking Note
When working with soft, fluffy rolls like Hawaiian bread, be gentle during dipping and flipping to prevent them from breaking apart. The slightly sweet flavor of the rolls means you can skip sugar in the batter if desired especially if you plan on using sugary toppings. Using day-old or slightly stale rolls is ideal because they hold up better after soaking and cook more evenly.
Use medium heat for cooking. If the heat is too high, the rolls will brown on the outside before cooking through, leaving the centers soggy. You’re aiming for a golden-brown exterior with a custard-like center light, moist, and delicious.
If you’re making a large batch, keep cooked pieces warm in the oven (at about 200°F / 95°C) on a baking sheet while you finish the rest. This is especially useful when hosting brunch or preparing ahead.
Feel free to double the egg mixture if you’re making a larger batch. Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in a toaster oven or skillet.
🥞 Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Roll French Toast pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and side dishes. For a classic brunch, serve it with a side of scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. To enhance the tropical vibe, garnish with sliced bananas, pineapple, or a drizzle of coconut cream.
For a sweet indulgence, pile on whipped cream, a handful of berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. You can even drizzle on chocolate syrup, Nutella, or honey for a dessert-style experience.
If you’re hosting guests, serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast with a fruit salad, mimosas, or iced coffee for a balanced and Instagram-worthy table. These rolls are rich enough to stand alone but humble enough to play well with others making them the star of any breakfast or brunch spread.
💡 Helpful Tips
- Don’t oversoak the rolls: Hawaiian rolls are soft and delicate. Dip just long enough to absorb flavor without falling apart.
- Use full-fat dairy: Whole milk or half-and-half gives the custard a richer texture.
- Add a pinch of salt: It enhances the sweetness and balances the flavor.
- Preheat your pan: This helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.
- Butter carefully: Too much butter can cause burning. Use just enough to coat the pan.
- Use a wide spatula or tongs: This helps prevent tearing when flipping.
- Let the rolls rest briefly before serving: This allows the custard to finish setting and improves texture.
- Make a batch ahead of time: These freeze well and can be reheated for busy mornings.
- Try different toppings each time: This keeps breakfast exciting and lets you customize for different preferences.
- Serve immediately for best texture: While they can be reheated, nothing beats fresh off the griddle!
🌟 Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Use day-old rolls: Slightly stale Hawaiian rolls soak better and hold their shape.
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly: This ensures even coating and prevents eggy clumps.
- Watch the heat: Medium to medium-low heat prevents burning and allows the custard to cook through.
- Flip only once: Overhandling can cause the rolls to break down. One gentle flip is enough.
- Use real butter for cooking: It enhances the flavor and creates a golden crust.
For a show-stopping brunch, slice the rolls halfway and stuff with mascarpone, strawberry preserves, or bananas before dipping your guests will be amazed.
⏱ Timing Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 2 rolls)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 14g
- Sugars: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on toppings and exact brands used.
❓ FAQs
Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
Yes! Cooked pieces can be stored in the fridge for 2 days or frozen for up to a month. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven.
Can I use other types of rolls or bread?
Yes, brioche or challah works well too, but Hawaiian rolls offer a unique sweet flavor and soft texture.
Are these good for kids?
Absolutely. Kids love the size, flavor, and the chance to pick their own toppings.
Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Yes. Soak rolls and bake in a buttered dish at 350°F for 25–30 minutes for a casserole-style version.
🏁 Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a game-changer in the world of breakfast. With its buttery, pillowy texture and sweet golden finish, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weekends, holidays, or any morning that deserves something extra special. Whether you enjoy them plain, stuffed, or topped to the skies, these rolls are easy to make and even easier to love.
Try this once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again because there’s truly nothing like the magic of Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
