Dessert

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

ByOlivia Monroe October 16, 2025October 16, 2025

Introduction

Hawaiian Roll French Toast offers a soft, sweet twist on a breakfast classic. Using fluffy Hawaiian sweet rolls creates a rich, golden French toast that’s perfectly tender inside and lightly crisp outside. It’s an irresistible start to any morning or brunch gathering.

The image shows two thick, golden-brown French toast slices stacked on a white plate with syrup lightly pooling around the base. Each slice is filled with a creamy white layer of custard or cream, visible from the side where the top toast is slightly lifted. The top slice is decorated with a dollop of whipped cream, bright red raspberries, and a couple of blueberries, all dusted with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar. The toast has a crispy, caramelized texture with clear browning and a shiny syrup glaze. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package (12 count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
6 large eggs
1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
4 tablespoons butter, divided
Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), whipped cream, chopped nuts, coconut flakes

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth to prepare the custard.
Step 2: Gently separate the Hawaiian rolls. Dip each roll into the custard mixture, coating all sides. Let them soak for about 15-20 seconds per side until saturated but still holding together.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the soaked rolls in the skillet, avoiding overcrowding.
Step 4: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining rolls using the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Step 5: Arrange the cooked French toast on plates. Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and add fresh berries, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes as desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of orange zest or coconut extract to the custard mixture.
Use brioche or challah rolls if Hawaiian rolls are unavailable, though the sweet flavor of Hawaiian rolls is unique.
If you prefer crispier edges, cook a minute longer on each side, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Try topping with toasted coconut flakes for added texture and a tropical touch.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or skillet to retain crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the French toast soggy.