Introduction

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. Using soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls gives each bite a rich, tender texture that’s perfect for a special morning treat. This recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress everyone at the breakfast table.

A stack of nine French toast pieces arranged on a white plate, each piece golden brown with a slightly crispy texture and a light dusting of powdered sugar on top; the toast layers vary slightly in size and thickness, with some pieces positioned flat and others leaning against each other, showing a soft, fluffy interior. The plate is set on a white marbled textured surface, with a blurred background hinting at a white cup and other breakfast items. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package (12-count) Hawaiian rolls
3 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2-3 tablespoons butter (for frying)
Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Maple syrup (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar until fully combined.
Step 2: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating sandwich-style pieces.
Step 3: Dip each roll half into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds but not become soggy.
Step 4: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and hot, place the soaked roll halves in the skillet.
Step 5: Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Remove from the skillet and place on a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest to the egg mixture.
Try using different flavored Hawaiian rolls like pineapple or sweet bread for a unique twist.
If you prefer a crispier French toast, toast the cooked rolls briefly in a hot oven before serving.

Storage

Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

A stack of thick golden-brown French toast pieces are piled on a white plate, each piece showing a crispy texture with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. The toast edges are slightly darker, showing a caramelized finish, while the inside looks soft and fluffy. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with a blurred background that has a white cup and some colorful objects. A woman's hand is gently holding the plate from the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

Yes, regular sandwich bread can be used, but Hawaiian rolls add a distinctive sweetness and softness that make this recipe special.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the egg mixture in advance and slice the rolls, but it’s best to cook the French toast just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 121 reviews

A delightful twist on classic French toast using sweet Hawaiian rolls, this recipe produces a rich and fluffy breakfast treat infused with cinnamon and vanilla. Perfect for a cozy morning, it combines the soft texture of Hawaiian bread with a creamy egg custard batter, lightly fried to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar. Serve with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Author: Isabella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12 slices 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 package (12-count) Hawaiian rolls
3 large eggs
1/2 cup whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2–3 tablespoons butter (for frying)

For Serving

Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar until well combined and smooth.
Slice the Rolls: Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally to create sandwich-like slices that will soak up the batter nicely.
Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the butter to melt and coat the pan evenly.
Soak the Rolls: Dip each Hawaiian roll half into the egg mixture, letting it soak for about 10-15 seconds to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked rolls onto the hot pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and slightly crisp. Add more butter to the pan if needed for frying remaining pieces.
Serve: Remove the French toast from the pan and dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm with maple syrup on the side if desired for an added sweetness.

Notes

Use slightly stale Hawaiian rolls for better absorption of the custard mixture.
Adjust the cinnamon and sugar levels to your preference.
For a richer flavor, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or all cream.
Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Can be kept warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while cooking the rest of the batch.

Keywords: Hawaiian Roll French Toast, Breakfast, Sweet Bread French Toast, Cinnamon French Toast, Easy Breakfast Recipe