Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the kind of recipe that instantly turns an ordinary morning into something special. Soft, sweet, and unbelievably fluffy, this dish takes the classic French toast everyone loves and upgrades it using pillowy Hawaiian rolls. Each roll soaks up a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard, then cooks to golden perfection on the outside while staying tender and cloud-like inside.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast, a cozy weekend brunch idea, or a dessert-style morning treat, Hawaiian Roll French Toast checks all the boxes. It’s fast, indulgent, family-friendly, and guaranteed to disappear as soon as it hits the table.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast, from ingredient tips and step-by-step instructions to variations, storage ideas, and serving suggestions. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn simple Hawaiian rolls into a show-stopping breakfast, you’re in the right place.

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Why Hawaiian Roll French Toast Is So Special

Traditional French toast is usually made with slices of brioche, challah, or day-old bread. While those options are delicious, Hawaiian rolls bring something uniquely irresistible to the table.

Hawaiian rolls are slightly sweet, incredibly soft, and rich with buttery flavor. When used for French toast, they create a texture that’s almost custard-like on the inside while developing a lightly crisp, caramelized exterior.

Here’s why Hawaiian Roll French Toast stands out:

• The rolls are pre-portioned, making them perfect for individual servings

• Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with cinnamon and vanilla

• They cook quickly, making this recipe ideal for busy mornings

• Kids and adults alike love the soft, dessert-like texture

If you’ve ever felt that regular French toast needed something extra, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

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Recipe Overview

Course: Breakfast / Dessert
Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls

This recipe is intentionally simple, using everyday ingredients while delivering bakery-quality results.

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Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Main Ingredients

• 1 (12-pack) Hawaiian rolls

• 3 large eggs

• ¾ 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)

For Serving (Optional)

• Powdered sugar

• Fresh fruit or berries

• Maple syrup

Each ingredient plays an important role, and choosing the right options can elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast from good to unforgettable.

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Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

Hawaiian Rolls:
Use classic Hawaiian sweet rolls for best results. Avoid rolls that are already stale or dry, as freshness helps create the signature soft interior.

Eggs:
Eggs form the base of the custard. Large eggs work best, providing richness without overpowering the sweetness of the rolls.

Milk or Half-and-Half:
Half-and-half creates a richer, creamier custard, while whole milk keeps things lighter. Both work beautifully for Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Brown Sugar:
Brown sugar adds depth and a subtle caramel flavor. You can substitute maple sugar or coconut sugar if desired.

Cinnamon:
Ground cinnamon provides warmth and balance. A pinch of nutmeg can be added for extra depth.

Butter:
Butter is essential for flavor and browning. Using real butter ensures a golden, slightly crisp exterior.

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How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and half-and-half until fully combined and smooth. Add the vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk again until everything is evenly incorporated.

The custard should be well blended but not overly frothy. A smooth custard ensures even soaking and consistent flavor.

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Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Using a toothpick or skewer, gently poke several holes into the bottom of each Hawaiian roll. This step is crucial.

Because Hawaiian rolls are very soft and tightly structured, the holes allow the custard to soak into the center without oversaturating the exterior. This ensures each roll cooks evenly and stays fluffy rather than soggy.

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Step 3: Soak the Rolls

Dip each roll into the custard mixture, letting it soak for about 30 seconds. Turn the roll gently to coat all sides.

Be careful not to over-soak. Hawaiian rolls absorb liquid quickly, and soaking them too long can cause them to fall apart or become mushy.

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Step 4: Cook the Rolls

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt completely.

Place the soaked rolls in the pan, leaving enough space between them to turn easily. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds per side, rotating carefully until all sides are golden brown.

Add remaining butter as needed between batches, wiping the pan if butter begins to brown too quickly.

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Step 5: Serve Warm

Transfer the cooked Hawaiian Roll French Toast to a serving plate. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and serve with fresh fruit and maple syrup if desired.

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

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Helpful Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast

• Low heat is key: Hawaiian rolls contain sugar and brown faster than regular bread. Medium-low heat prevents burning.

• Don’t oversoak: Thirty seconds is plenty. Too much soaking leads to soggy rolls.

• Cook in batches: Avoid crowding the pan so each roll browns evenly.

• Wipe the pan: Between batches, wipe away burnt butter to prevent bitterness.

• Use a gentle touch: Turn rolls carefully to maintain their shape.

These small details make a big difference when preparing Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

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Flavor Variations to Try

One of the best things about Hawaiian Roll French Toast is how customizable it is. Here are some delicious variations to keep things exciting.

Cinnamon Sugar Hawaiian Roll French Toast

After cooking, toss the rolls in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar for a churro-style finish.

Cream Cheese Stuffed Version

Slice the rolls halfway through and fill with sweetened cream cheese before soaking and cooking.

Banana Foster Style

Top cooked rolls with caramelized bananas and warm brown sugar sauce.

Berry Cream Version

Serve with whipped cream and mixed berries for a brunch-worthy presentation.

Chocolate Lover’s Option

Add chocolate chips to the custard or drizzle cooked rolls with chocolate sauce.

Each variation keeps the base recipe intact while adding a unique twist.

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Serving Suggestions

Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be served in many ways depending on the occasion.

• Pair with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a sweet-savory balance

• Serve with scrambled eggs for a complete breakfast

• Offer a yogurt parfait on the side for brunch gatherings

• Turn it into dessert with ice cream and caramel sauce

Because it’s portioned into individual rolls, it’s perfect for serving guests or kids without extra slicing.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead Option

You can prepare the custard the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply soak and cook the rolls.

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Skillet: Reheat over low heat with a little butter

• Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes

• Microwave: Use short intervals to avoid drying out

Hawaiian Roll French Toast reheats best when done gently.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate per Roll)

• Calories: 210–230 kcal

• Protein: 4–5 g

• Fat: 10–12 g

• Carbohydrates: 25–28 g

These values may vary depending on toppings and substitutions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake Hawaiian Roll French Toast instead?

Yes. Arrange soaked rolls in a buttered baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning once.

Can I use stale Hawaiian rolls?

Fresh rolls work best, but slightly day-old rolls are fine. Avoid very dry rolls.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Kids love the soft texture and mild sweetness.

Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked rolls for up to one month. Reheat gently.

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Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With minimal prep and just a few minutes of cooking time, you get a dish that feels indulgent, comforting, and celebratory all at once. The natural sweetness and softness of Hawaiian rolls transform classic French toast into something richer, fluffier, and more fun to eat.

This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you still want something homemade, as well as for relaxed weekend brunches where presentation and flavor matter. It’s versatile enough to dress up with elegant toppings or keep simple for everyday enjoyment. Whether served as breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, Hawaiian Roll French Toast never fails to impress.