As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a sun-kissed Hawaiian beach. If you’re looking for a delightful twist on your morning routine, my Soft & Fluffy Hawaiian Roll French Toast might just be the answer. This breakfast beauty is not only incredibly easy to whip up but also elevates the humble French toast to new heights with its soft, buttery rolls soaked in a rich custard. Each slice is a blissful combination of a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for brunch or a special treat on any day of the week. And the best part? You can customize it to your heart’s desire! What toppings will you choose to make it your own?

Why is Hawaiian Roll French Toast Special?

Irresistible soft and fluffy texture: Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving you wanting more.
Quick & Easy preparation: This recipe can be on your table in under 30 minutes.
Unique twist on classic flavor: The Hawaiian rolls add a touch of sweetness, elevating traditional French toast.
Endless variations mean you can mix in your favorite fruits or toppings, from fresh berries to whipped cream.
Perfect for brunch: Your guests will rave about this delightful dish, making you the star of any gathering.
For more breakfast inspiration, check out our Cinnamon Roll Banana recipe!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Ingredients

Unlock the secrets to a delightful breakfast experience with these essential components!

For the Custard

Large Eggs – Provide structure and richness to the custard; egg substitutes can work for a vegan option.
Milk – Adds creaminess to the custard; you can use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; feel free to skip if you prefer a more subtle taste.
Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice and sweetness; nutmeg is a great alternative if you want variation.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; it’s an essential ingredient for taste.
Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon with warm notes; use it sparingly as it’s optional.

For Cooking

Unsalted Butter – Achieves a crispy, golden exterior; oil can be a substitute if preferred.
Hawaiian Rolls – The star of the dish, providing natural sweetness and a soft texture; using a different soft bread will alter flavors.

For Serving

Powdered Sugar – Offers sweetness and adds aesthetic appeal; optional but recommended for a lovely finish.
Maple Syrup – The traditional topping that enhances flavors; honey or agave syrup are great alternatives.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a deep bowl, crack open the large eggs and whisk them together with milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until thoroughly blended. Aim for a smooth consistency with a frothy appearance, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes of whisking. This custard forms the flavorful foundation that will turn your Hawaiian rolls into a delightful French toast.

Step 2: Heat the Cooking Surface
Preheat your griddle or a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring it becomes hot enough to achieve that beautiful golden hue. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and coat the surface evenly. The butter should start to foam, signaling that it’s ready for the Hawaiian roll halves to soak up the custard.

Step 3: Soak the Hawaiian Rolls
Take the Hawaiian roll halves and gently dip them into the custard mixture. Make sure they’re submerged for about 10 seconds to absorb the rich flavors, but be careful not to oversoak, as this could lead to sogginess. Lift them out and let the excess custard drip off, preparing them for the skillet.

Step 4: Cook the First Side
Place the soaked Hawaiian roll halves on the hot skillet, ensuring there’s enough space to flip them later without crowding. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown and slightly crispy, with a lovely aroma wafting from the skillet. This is the moment to admire the transformation of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
Using a spatula, flip the rolls over and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the other side achieves a similar golden brown color and crunchy texture. Keep an eye on them as they cook, ensuring each side is beautifully browned without burning. The tantalizing scent will surely tempt everyone in the kitchen!

Step 6: Keep the Rolls Warm
Once cooked, carefully transfer the Hawaiian Roll French Toast to a warm plate and cover it lightly with foil to keep it warm. Repeat the soaking and cooking process with the remaining rolls, adding more butter to the skillet as needed for a perfect finish. Continue this step until you’ve worked through all the rolls.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings
To finish, serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Drizzle generously with maple syrup, and feel free to get creative by adding fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate this breakfast delight. Each bite is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful twists on Hawaiian Roll French Toast!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Fruity Delight: Add mashed ripe bananas or blueberries into the custard for a burst of natural sweetness in each bite, enhancing the tropical vibe.
Chocolate Chip Bliss: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips into the custard. They’ll melt into gooey goodness, making every slice a decadent treat.
Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed nuts such as pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the softness of the rolls.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cardamom to the custard for a warm heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls.
Coconut Twist: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a truly tropical experience, reminiscent of a vacation in paradise.
French Toast Bake: Transform this recipe into a baking dish by layering the soaked rolls in a greased pan, pouring the custard over them, and baking until golden. Perfect for brunch gatherings!
Serving Suggestions: Serve alongside fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for an elevated breakfast experience that everyone will love.

Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest eggs and milk possible for a rich, flavorful custard. Their quality greatly influences the overall taste of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
Don’t Oversoak: Carefully dip the rolls in the custard mixture, allowing just 10 seconds for soaking. Avoid oversoaking to prevent sogginess, ensuring every bite is perfectly fluffy.
Adjust Heat: Maintain a medium heat while cooking to achieve that perfect golden finish without burning. Too high and the outside won’t cook evenly with the inside.
Flip Gently: Use a spatula to flip the rolls carefully, preserving their shape and texture. Gentle handling ensures a crispy edge on both sides of your French toast.
Warm Serving: Serve your Hawaiian Roll French Toast immediately after cooking for the best texture. If preparing in batches, keep the cooked rolls warm in a low oven.
Experiment with Toppings: Personalize your dish with toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or flavored syrups to enhance the Hawaiian Roll French Toast experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft & Fluffy Hawaiian Roll French Toast are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the Hawaiian rolls the night before and keep them stored in a separate container to maintain their freshness. When it’s time to serve, simply soak the rolls in the custard for about 10 seconds each and cook them immediately on the griddle as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fluffy, delicious French toast with minimal effort, making your busy mornings stress-free and delightful!

How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Fridge: Store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain its softness, place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen slices at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but be mindful not to overcook.

Pre-prep: If you’re making the custard ahead, whisk together the ingredients and refrigerate it. This can save you time on busy mornings when you crave Hawaiian Roll French Toast!

What to Serve with Easy Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Imagine a table filled with delightful flavors and vibrant colors, perfectly complementing your warm, fluffy Hawaiian Roll French Toast.

Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of freshness and tang that balances the sweetness of the toast.
Crispy Bacon: The salty, savory crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the French toast, creating a satisfying taste experience.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream enhances the indulgence of your breakfast, making each bite feel like a special treat.
Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut adds a tropical twist, enhancing the Hawaiian vibe while providing delightful texture and flavor.
Orange Juice Mimosa: Pairing with a mimosa offers a refreshing citrus note that brightens the meal, elevating your brunch to a festive occasion.
Maple Bacon Donuts: For dessert vibes, serve maple bacon donuts that echo the sweet and savory theme, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and satisfied.
Yogurt Parfaits: Layered with granola and fruit, these parfaits provide a refreshing contrast to the rich French toast, making for a wholesome addition to your breakfast spread.
Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed apples flavored with cinnamon add a warm, cozy element that ties perfectly with the spiced custard of your French toast.
Shredded Coconut Smoothie: Creamy and rich, this smoothie completes the tropical flavor journey, making every bite of your Hawaiian Roll French Toast even more delightful.
Espresso or Coffee: A hot cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors of the meal while adding a comforting warmth that complements your breakfast perfectly.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use soft, traditional Hawaiian rolls, which provide natural sweetness and a tender bite. If you can’t find them, any soft bread can serve as a substitute, but be aware that it may alter the sweetness and overall flavors of the dish.

How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
To keep your Hawaiian Roll French Toast fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve softness, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb any excess moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat!

Can Hawaiian Roll French Toast be frozen?
Yes, you can easily freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can stay delicious in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven or microwave to reheat.

What if my rolls are soggy after soaking?
If your Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns out soggy, it’s likely that they were soaked for too long. Make sure to only dip them into the custard mixture for about 10 seconds. If you notice sogginess, you can still salvage the dish by cooking them longer on a lower heat to help evaporate excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Absolutely! To make Hawaiian Roll French Toast dairy-free, simply swap regular milk for plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For a vegan version, you can use flax eggs or commercial egg substitutes in place of the large eggs, offering a similar custard-like texture while still keeping it delicious.

How can I elevate my Hawaiian Roll French Toast with toppings?
The more the merrier! You can elevate your Hawaiian Roll French Toast by adding fresh fruits such as berries or banana slices, a drizzle of honey or agave syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream. Feel free to get creative—coconut flakes or chocolate chips can add a fun twist that complements the sweetness of the rolls perfectly!