Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast: The Best Breakfast Upgrade

If you love French toast but want to take it to the next level, you’re in for a treat! This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe transforms soft, buttery Hawaiian sweet rolls into golden, caramelized perfection. The slightly sweet, fluffy texture of the rolls makes them ideal for soaking up a rich vanilla-cinnamon custard, resulting in a crispy outside and melt-in-your-mouth center.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast, a weekend brunch showstopper, or a fun twist on classic French toast, this recipe is easy, indulgent, and absolutely delicious. Plus, with endless topping possibilities—like maple syrup, fresh berries, or even a tropical coconut drizzle—you can customize it to match any craving.

Ready to make the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast you’ve ever had? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

If you’re looking for an easy way to upgrade your breakfast, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the perfect recipe. Made with soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian sweet rolls, this dish takes classic French toast to the next level. The rolls soak up the rich vanilla-cinnamon batter, creating a custardy inside with a perfectly golden, caramelized crust.

1. Soft, Fluffy Texture with a Caramelized Crust

Unlike regular bread, Hawaiian rolls have a naturally fluffy texture with a hint of sweetness. When dipped in the French toast batter and pan-fried, they develop a crisp, buttery crust while staying soft inside. This contrast makes every bite irresistible.

2. Quick and Easy Breakfast or Brunch Idea

This recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and comes together in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re making a quick weekday breakfast or hosting a weekend brunch, Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a simple yet impressive dish.

3. Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Richness

Hawaiian sweet rolls bring just the right amount of natural sweetness, reducing the need for excess sugar. Paired with warm cinnamon, vanilla, and a drizzle of maple syrup, this French toast has a comforting and balanced flavor profile.

4. Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

The mini size of Hawaiian rolls makes them perfect for kids and bite-sized servings. Plus, they hold up well with various toppings, from powdered sugar and fresh berries to whipped cream and caramel drizzle.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is easy, and you likely already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to create this soft, custardy, and caramelized breakfast dish.

1. Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – The Perfect Bread Choice

Regular bread works for French toast, but Hawaiian sweet rolls make this dish special. Their buttery, slightly sweet flavor and fluffy texture help them absorb the batter without falling apart. Plus, their small, pull-apart size makes serving easy.

2. French Toast Batter Essentials

To get the perfect rich, custardy coating, you’ll need these key ingredients:

• Eggs – The foundation of the batter, adding structure and richness..
• Milk or Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess and softens the bread. For the creamiest texture, opt for whole milk or half-and-half.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the natural sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
• Ground cinnamon brings a warm, rich depth of flavor.
• A dash of salt – evens out the sweetness and brings out the flavors.

3. Butter for Cooking

Instead of oil, butter gives the French toast a crispy, golden-brown crust with a rich, buttery finish. It also prevents the rolls from sticking to the pan.

4. Toppings and Add-Ons

You can go for a simple approach or get creative with your toppings.

• Classic – Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries.
• Indulgent – Whipped cream, caramel drizzle, chocolate chips.
• Tropical Twist – Toasted coconut flakes, pineapple chunks, macadamia nuts.

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of making the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

This quick and easy recipe transforms simple Hawaiian sweet rolls into a golden, custardy, and flavorful French toast. Follow these steps to get the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, pillowy center.

1. Prepare the French Toast Batter

Start by making a rich and flavorful batter that will soak into the Hawaiian rolls:

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, ½ cup of whole milk (or half-and-half), 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
• Mix until smooth and well combined.

Pro Tip: For extra sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of maple syrup or brown sugar to the batter.

2. Coat the Hawaiian Rolls for Maximum Flavor

• Separate the Hawaiian sweet rolls but keep them intact in small clusters of 2-3 rolls. This helps them hold together while cooking.
• Dip each roll into the batter, ensuring all sides are coated but not overly soaked—you want them to absorb the liquid without falling apart.

Pro Tip: Let the excess batter drip off before placing them on the pan to avoid sogginess.

3. Cook the French Toast to Golden Perfection

• Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, then add 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt and evenly coat the pan.
• Place the battered Hawaiian rolls on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping until all sides are golden brown and caramelized.
• Repeat the process with the remaining rolls, adding more butter if necessary.

4. Serve Immediately for the Best Texture

• Place the cooked Hawaiian Roll French Toast onto a plate.
• Top with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of maple syrup for classic flavor.
• For an extra indulgent twist, add whipped cream, caramel sauce, or toasted coconut flakes.

Now that your French toast is ready, let’s explore some creative serving ideas to take it to the next level!

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

Now that you’ve made the perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast, it’s time to elevate your breakfast with delicious toppings and sides. Whether you prefer classic flavors or something more indulgent, here are some creative serving ideas to make your meal even better.

1. Classic Toppings for a Traditional Touch

If you love simple yet flavorful French toast, these timeless toppings are perfect:

• Maple Syrup – A must-have for adding sweetness and moisture.
• Powdered Sugar – Lightly dust for a delicate, bakery-style finish.
• Fresh Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries add natural sweetness and a burst of color.

2. Indulgent Additions for a Decadent Twist

Want to turn this into a dessert-like treat? Try these rich and indulgent toppings:

• Whipped Cream – Adds a light, airy texture to balance the crispy toast.
• Caramel Drizzle – Enhances the natural sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
• Chocolate Chips – Sprinkle on top while the toast is warm for a melty, chocolatey touch.
• Nutella or Peanut Butter – Spread on top for a creamy, nutty flavor.

3. Tropical-Inspired Toppings for a Hawaiian Flair

Since this French toast is made with Hawaiian sweet rolls, why not add a tropical twist?

• Toasted Coconut Flakes – Adds crunch and a nutty-sweet flavor.
• Pineapple Chunks – Fresh or caramelized pineapple pairs beautifully with the buttery toast.
• Macadamia Nuts – Crushed macadamia nuts provide a subtle crunch.

4. Side Dishes to Complete Your Breakfast

Pair your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with these delicious sides for a well-rounded meal:

• Crispy Bacon or Breakfast Sausage – The savory-sweet contrast is unbeatable.
• Scrambled Eggs – A simple protein-packed addition to balance the sweetness.
• Greek Yogurt with Honey – A lighter side option for a refreshing contrast.

With so many ways to serve and enjoy this flavorful breakfast dish, you can easily customize it to suit any occasion!

Now, let’s go over some expert tips and tricks to ensure your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out perfect every time.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

To achieve the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, custardy center, follow these expert tips. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the texture and flavor of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

1. How to Prevent Soggy French Toast

• Don’t oversoak the rolls – Hawaiian sweet rolls are soft and absorb liquid quickly. Dip them in the batter just long enough to coat them, but don’t let them sit too long, or they’ll become too soggy.
• Use whole milk or half-and-half – Avoid using skim milk or low-fat alternatives, as they won’t create the same rich custard consistency.
• Cook over medium heat – High heat can burn the outside before the inside is fully cooked, while low heat can make them too soft.

2. Achieving the Perfect Crispy Outside and Soft Inside

• Use butter for frying – Butter gives the French toast a golden, caramelized crust with a rich flavor.
• Let the batter drip off before cooking – This prevents excess liquid from pooling in the pan.
• Flip gently with tongs – Since Hawaiian rolls are delicate, use tongs to turn them without breaking them apart.

3. Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Meal prep tip: You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator for quick assembly in the morning.
• Storing leftovers: Keep leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm up in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain crispiness.Avoid using the microwave, as it may cause them to become too soft.

4. Custom Variations for Different Flavors

• Coconut-Lover’s French Toast – Add coconut milk to the batter and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top.
• Cinnamon Roll Style – Drizzle with cream cheese glaze for a dessert-like version.
• Savory Spin – Omit the sugar and pair with bacon and cheese for a delicious sweet-savory blend.

By following these tips, you’ll get the best Hawaiian Roll French Toast every time—crispy on the outside, soft and custardy inside, and packed with flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast is the perfect breakfast upgrade, offering a buttery, sweet, and fluffy texture that regular bread just can’t match. Whether you serve it classic, indulgent, or tropical, it’s a guaranteed hit for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I substitute regular bread for Hawaiian rolls?

Yes! While Hawaiian sweet rolls provide a soft, buttery texture and a hint of sweetness, you can substitute them with brioche, challah, or Texas toast for a similar effect.

2. Is it possible to prepare Hawaiian Roll French Toast in advance?

Yes! You can mix the batter the night before and keep it refrigerated. If you need to make the French toast in advance, cook it as usual, then store it in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet, toaster oven, or air fryer to restore crispiness.

3. How can I prevent my French toast from becoming soggy?

• Avoid over-soaking the rolls in the batter.
• Use medium heat when cooking to ensure the inside cooks through.
• Let excess batter drip off before placing the rolls in the pan.

4. Can I bake Hawaiian Roll French Toast instead of pan-frying?

Yes! Arrange the battered rolls in a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is great for making a large batch at once.

5. What are the top toppings for Hawaiian Roll French Toast?

Common toppings include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, and whipped cream. For a tropical twist, try toasted coconut, pineapple chunks, or macadamia nuts.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace milk with almond, coconut, or oat milk and use dairy-free butter or coconut oil for frying.

7. How can I make this French toast even more decadent?

For a richer version, try using half-and-half or heavy cream in the batter, then drizzle with caramel, Nutella, or chocolate sauce before serving.