Dessert

Unforgettable Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe

ByOlivia Monroe October 16, 2025October 16, 2025

Introduction

Indulge in a breakfast classic with a tropical twist: soft Hawaiian rolls gently soaked in creamy vanilla-cinnamon custard, then cooked on a buttered skillet until golden brown. Each bite offers a fluffy, pillowy center with a crisp exterior, perfectly complemented by a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve warm with fresh berries or whipped cream for an unforgettable start to your morning.

The image shows a stack of six thick, golden-brown French toast pieces arranged tightly on a white plate. The toast slices are labeled with a crispy, caramelized surface that shines with syrup coating each piece. From the middle three layers, creamy white filling oozes out slightly, adding an enticing texture contrast. The syrup pools at the base of the stack and drips down the sides, enhancing the rich look. In the blurry background, a bowl of red and blue berries adds a splash of color. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 package (12 rolls) Hawaiian rolls
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Maple syrup, as desired
Fresh berries or whipped cream, optional

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Carefully separate or slice the Hawaiian rolls, maintaining their thick, airy structure without compressing them.
Step 3: Arrange the rolls in a single layer in a shallow dish. Pour the custard mixture over the rolls and let them soak for about 30 seconds on each side, making sure they absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted and sizzling, add the soaked rolls. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Repeat with remaining butter and rolls as needed.
Step 5: Transfer the cooked rolls to a serving plate. Dust generously with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream if desired, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use slightly stale Hawaiian rolls if possible; they soak custard better without falling apart.
Swap whole milk with half-and-half for a richer custard and creamier texture.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth if vanilla is unavailable.
For a seasonal twist, top with ripe peaches and toasted coconut in summer or cinnamon-spiced apples in fall.
Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a heartier brunch.

Storage

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster oven to restore crispness and warmth. You can also freeze cooked rolls by placing them in a single layer until frozen, then storing in freezer bags. Reheat from frozen in a low oven until hot and crispy.

How to Serve

A stack of six thick, golden-brown French toast cubes is shown close-up, each piece toasted with a shiny, caramelized crust. Between the pieces, creamy, white custard or cream fills the gaps, slightly dripping down the sides. The toast sits on a white plate with light honey or syrup pooled around the base, adding a glossy texture. In the background, there is a blurred bowl with red and blue berries on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What makes Hawaiian rolls special for French toast?

Their sweet, pillowy texture absorbs custard well, creating a soft, fluffy center with golden edges that elevate traditional French toast.

Can I use stale Hawaiian rolls?

Yes, slightly stale rolls are excellent because they hold up better to soaking without becoming too soft or falling apart.

How do I avoid soggy French toast?

Soak each side of the rolls for about 30 seconds only. Hawaiian rolls absorb liquid quickly, so brief soaking prevents oversaturation and sogginess.

What toppings pair best with this dish?

Maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, and whipped cream all enhance the natural sweetness and flavor of the French toast.

Is whole milk or half-and-half better for the custard?

Both work well, but half-and-half creates a richer custard and a creamier texture for the finished toast.

Olivia Monroe