Name: Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 Hawaiian rolls, cut into cubes; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon butter; Powdered sugar for dusting; Maple syrup for serving; Fresh berries for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how Hawaiian Roll French Toast turns an ordinary breakfast into something truly special. The soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls soak up the rich custard beautifully, creating a warm, fluffy interior with a golden, slightly crisp exterior. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly customizable with toppings like fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Whether I’m cooking for my family or treating myself to a cozy morning, this dish always hits the spot.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 Hawaiian rolls, cut into cubes
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon butter
Powdered sugar for dusting
Maple syrup for serving
Fresh berries for garnish

directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth.
I add the cubed Hawaiian rolls to the mixture, stirring gently to coat each piece. Then I let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak.
I melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, I add the soaked Hawaiian roll cubes and cook them for about 4-5 minutes, flipping gently until golden brown on all sides.
I transfer the cooked French toast to a baking dish and place it in the oven for an additional 5 minutes to ensure it’s fully set.
I serve it warm with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries on top.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 380 kcal per serving

Variations

I like to change things up by adding a splash of rum or bourbon to the egg mixture for a grown-up twist. Sometimes I top it with a crunchy streusel made of butter, sugar, and flour before baking. Toasted coconut flakes add a tropical vibe, while flavored syrups like chocolate or fruit-infused ones bring a fun twist. Whipped cream and chopped nuts are also favorite additions for a richer finish.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crisp texture. The microwave works in a pinch but can make the texture softer.

FAQs

What makes Hawaiian rolls different for French toast?

I find Hawaiian rolls bring a sweet, buttery flavor and a soft, fluffy texture that regular bread doesn’t offer, making them perfect for soaking up the custard.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep it the night before. I soak the rolls and store them covered in the fridge. In the morning, I cook and bake them as usual.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely. I substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk when I want a dairy-free option.

What toppings work best?

I love using fresh berries, powdered sugar, maple syrup, and sometimes whipped cream or chopped nuts for extra indulgence.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, I let the French toast cool completely, then freeze it in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheating in the oven keeps the texture nice.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Roll French Toast is one of those breakfasts that feels indulgent yet is so simple to make. I love its sweet, pillowy base paired with warm spices and rich custard. It’s perfect for family brunches, holidays, or any morning I want something special. With so many ways to customize it, this dish always keeps breakfast exciting and delicious.