Hawaiian roll French toast always takes me back to a sunny Sunday morning when I wanted to surprise my family with something extra special and I opened the pantry and saw a bag of sweet, pillowy Hawaiian rolls and I thought why not turn them into the ultimate French toast and when I took that first bite with the crispy edges and the soft, custardy center I knew it was going to become a regular weekend treat and since then it’s been a favorite that makes everyone gather around the table with big smiles and happy chatter.

I love making this Hawaiian roll French toast because it feels like a mini vacation on a plate and the natural sweetness of the rolls pairs so beautifully with the rich egg mixture and a dusting of powdered sugar and I find it’s the perfect breakfast to brighten any day and it also makes me feel like I’m sharing a little bit of sunshine with everyone I serve it to and it’s always a hit whether it’s for a relaxed brunch with friends or a cozy breakfast at home.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Hawaiian rolls — The star of the show, their fluffy texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for French toast.
Eggs — The essential base for creating that rich, custardy coating.
Milk or cream — Adds creaminess and helps soak the rolls thoroughly.
Vanilla extract — Infuses a warm, sweet aroma that ties everything together.
Cinnamon — Brings a cozy, comforting spice that elevates the flavor.
Sugar — Slightly sweetens the custard without overpowering.
Butter — Used for cooking, gives each piece a golden, crisp edge.
Powdered sugar — For a beautiful, snowy dusting on top.
Fresh berries — Optional, but they add a bright, fresh contrast.

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowl — To whisk the custard mixture together.
Whisk — Helps blend the eggs and milk into a smooth consistency.
Shallow dish — Perfect for dipping the rolls evenly without breaking them.
Non-stick skillet or griddle — Essential for getting that golden, crispy finish.
Spatula — For gently flipping the rolls without tearing.
Measuring cups and spoons — To keep all ingredients balanced just right.
Serving plate — To stack those gorgeous slices when they’re ready.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by whisking the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar together in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined.

Step 2

I transfer the custard mixture to a shallow dish to make dipping the rolls easier.

Step 3

I slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally or leave them whole if I want them extra thick and pillowy.

Step 4

I dip each piece into the custard mixture, making sure every side is coated and the rolls soak up enough custard without becoming soggy.

Step 5

I heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt a bit of butter until it’s foamy and fragrant.

Step 6

I place the soaked rolls onto the skillet and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Step 7

I transfer the finished pieces to a plate and keep them warm while I finish the rest.

Step 8

I dust them generously with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries before serving.

Tips

If you want to make them even more decadent, I sometimes add a splash of orange zest to the custard for a bright twist. You can also stuff the rolls with cream cheese or Nutella before dipping for an indulgent surprise. I recommend serving immediately to enjoy that perfect crisp and soft balance.

Ways to Serve

I love serving these with maple syrup, a side of crispy bacon, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. They’re fantastic for brunch buffets, special birthday breakfasts, or just when you want to make an ordinary morning feel extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hawaiian roll French toast ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the custard mixture in advance and dip and cook when ready.

Can I freeze Hawaiian roll French toast?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the oven or toaster for the best texture.

Why use Hawaiian rolls for French toast?

Their slight sweetness and soft, fluffy texture make them perfect for soaking up the custard and creating a rich, melt-in-your-mouth bite.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Hawaiian roll French toast a try! It’s one of my favorite ways to bring a little joy to the breakfast table, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Don’t forget to share your photos or leave a comment! And if you enjoy it, save this recipe so you can treat yourself whenever the craving hits.

Happy Cooking!