This sweet and fluffy Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful way to kickstart your morning! Perfect for any occasion, from family brunches to holiday gatherings, this recipe transforms soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls into a delectable breakfast treat. The combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries, making it a standout choice for your table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Egg Mixture
- For the Rolls
- For Cooking
- For Garnish
- How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Step 2: Soak the Hawaiian Rolls
- Step 3: Cook the Rolls
- Step 4: Finish Cooking Remaining Rolls
- Step 5: Serve Your Dish
- How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Classic Maple Syrup
- Fresh Berries
- Powdered Sugar Dusting
- Whipped Cream
- Nut Butter
- Chocolate Chips
- 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
- What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- How do I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- What sides pair well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
- Can I use other types of bread?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for busy mornings.
- Fluffy Texture: The Hawaiian rolls provide a light and airy bite that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings like fruits, nuts, or whipped cream.
- Family Approved: Kids love the sweet taste, making it a hit for all ages.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep ahead of time for an easy breakfast solution on hectic mornings.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9 x 13 baking dish
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Plate
Importance of Each Tool
- 9 x 13 baking dish: Ideal for soaking the rolls evenly in the egg mixture.
- Large skillet: Ensures even cooking for perfectly golden brown French toast.
- Whisk: Helps combine the ingredients smoothly for a lump-free batter.
Ingredients
For the Egg Mixture
- 6 eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Rolls
- 24-pack sweet Hawaiian rolls
For Cooking
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
For Garnish
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a 9 x 13 baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Step 2: Soak the Hawaiian Rolls
Dip each Hawaiian roll into the egg mixture. Turn them to coat all sides thoroughly. Let them soak for about 5 minutes, flipping once halfway through for even absorption.
Step 3: Cook the Rolls
Remove the soaked rolls from the mixture and place them on a plate. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the rolls (or as many as will fit) to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on all sides, approximately 1 minute per side (about 6 minutes per batch). Transfer cooked rolls to a platter covered with aluminum foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Finish Cooking Remaining Rolls
Wipe out the skillet and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook the rest of the soaked rolls until golden brown as well.
Step 5: Serve Your Dish
Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top, dusted with powdered sugar, and garnished with fresh berries. Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Roll French Toast!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Serving Hawaiian Roll French Toast is all about enhancing the delightful flavors and textures of this sweet dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your French toast for breakfast or brunch.
Classic Maple Syrup
- Pour warm maple syrup over the French toast for a classic and sweet finish.
Fresh Berries
- Top with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness and color.
Powdered Sugar Dusting
- Lightly dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch that adds sweetness without overpowering the dish.
Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and indulgence.
Nut Butter
- Spread almond or peanut butter on top for a rich and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
Chocolate Chips
- Sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top while serving for chocolate lovers who enjoy a decadent twist.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Perfecting Hawaiian Roll French Toast can elevate your breakfast experience. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always delicious!
- Use fresh rolls: Fresh Hawaiian rolls provide the best texture and flavor. Stale rolls can become too soggy.
- Soak evenly: Make sure each roll is fully coated in the egg mixture for consistent flavor throughout.
- Cook at the right temperature: Medium heat is key; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.
- Keep warm: Place cooked rolls on a platter covered with aluminum foil to keep them warm while finishing the batch.
- Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to try different toppings like fruit compotes or flavored syrups.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to increase cinnamon or add nutmeg for more depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these delicious side dishes to create a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory contrast to the sweetness of the French toast.
- Sausage Links: Flavorful sausage links provide heartiness that balances out the meal perfectly.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein, making this breakfast both filling and satisfying.
- Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait with granola and fruits complements the sweetness while adding texture.
- Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns bring an additional crunch that pairs well with soft French toast.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds lightness and brightness to your plate, enhancing flavors overall.
- Smoothie: A berry or banana smoothie offers a nutritious drink option that pairs well with any breakfast spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Using stale rolls: Always use fresh Hawaiian rolls for the best texture and flavor. Stale bread won’t soak up the egg mixture as well, resulting in a dry toast.
- Not soaking long enough: Allow the rolls to soak in the egg mixture for at least 5 minutes. This ensures they absorb enough flavor and become fluffy.
- Cooking at too high a heat: Cooking on high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to medium heat for even cooking.
- Skipping toppings: Don’t forget to add maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries! These toppings enhance the sweetness and overall experience of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
- Not cleaning the skillet between batches: Residue from earlier batches can cause uneven cooking. Wipe the skillet clean before adding more butter and rolls.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped pieces for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat cut pieces on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a sweet breakfast dish made by soaking soft Hawaiian rolls in an egg mixture, then frying them until golden brown. It’s perfect for brunch!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture and soak the rolls beforehand. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
How do I customize my Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
You can add different spices like nutmeg or mix-in ingredients such as chocolate chips or nuts. Feel free to experiment with toppings as well!
What sides pair well with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Fresh fruits like berries, whipped cream, or even bacon can complement this dish beautifully.
Can I use other types of bread?
While Hawaiian rolls are ideal due to their sweetness, any soft bread like brioche or challah can work as alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for special occasions or weekend brunches. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and flavors!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in a delightful morning with this irresistible Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Transforming soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls into a sweet breakfast treat, this recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon and vanilla with fluffy textures that melt in your mouth. Perfect for family brunches or holiday gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and allows for a variety of toppings, making it a hit for all ages. Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or top with fresh berries for an unforgettable breakfast experience that promises to brighten your day!
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 24-pack sweet Hawaiian rolls
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for garnish
- Fresh berries, for garnish
Instructions
- In a 9" x 13" baking dish, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Soak each Hawaiian roll in the egg mixture for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat and cook half of the soaked rolls until golden brown on both sides (about 6 minutes total). Transfer to a warm platter.
- Repeat with remaining butter and rolls.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (90g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg