How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast in Just 20 Minutes
Table of Contents
Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked Hawaiian rolls combined with the comforting scent of warm spices and sweet vanilla. That’s the magic of Hawaiian Roll French Toast—a delicious twist on the classic breakfast treat. These fluffy rolls, with their subtle sweetness, provide the perfect base for French Toast, creating a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of traditional French Toast or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Did you know that Hawaiian Rolls, also known as Portuguese sweet bread, originated in Hawaii and are adored for their soft, almost pillow-like texture? This unique quality makes them an excellent choice for French Toast, offering a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and tender interior. If you’re looking for another mouthwatering breakfast idea, you might enjoy our “Homemade Waffles” recipe, but for now, let’s dive into making this Hawaiian Roll French Toast!
What is Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a scrumptious breakfast dish that combines the comforting softness of Hawaiian sweet rolls with the rich flavors of a French Toast batter. The name itself hints at its origins—a fusion of classic French Toast and the beloved Hawaiian sweet roll. Why is it called Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Well, it’s a nod to the unique bread used, which is famous for its light, airy texture and mild sweetness.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and tradition. So, whether you’re serving it at a family brunch or enjoying it as a special weekend treat, this French Toast recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast
There are countless reasons to love Hawaiian Roll French Toast:
- Creamy and Flavorful: The dish features a rich, vanilla-infused batter that pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
- Cost-Effective: Using pre-made Hawaiian rolls simplifies the process and saves time, making it an economical choice for a luxurious breakfast.
- Customizable: Top with fresh fruit, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a personalized touch.
If you’re in search of another delicious breakfast idea, why not try our “Buttermilk Pancakes” recipe? But for now, let’s focus on creating this perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Quick Overview
Hawaiian Roll French Toast is a delightful dish that combines fluffy Hawaiian sweet rolls with a rich, vanilla-infused batter. The result is a breakfast treat that’s both comforting and flavorful, with a crispy exterior and a tender interior. With just 30 minutes of preparation, this dish is a great option for a weeknight or weekend brunch.
Key Ingredients for Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: 6 rolls (day-old)
- Eggs: 4 large
- Milk: 1 cup (whole milk preferred)
- Granulated Sugar: 3 tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (for frying)
- Maple syrup or fresh fruit: For serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Rolls: Slice the Hawaiian sweet rolls into 1-inch slices. Allow them to come to room temperature to ensure they absorb the batter evenly.
- Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Coat the Rolls: Dip each slice of roll into the batter, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat a non-stick pan or skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the coated rolls, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked French Toast to a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

What to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast With
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich French Toast.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: For a lighter option, pair with granola and honey.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle for an extra-sweet touch.
- Coffee or Juice: Serve with a cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice to complete the meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Use Day-Old Rolls: Older rolls are less likely to fall apart during cooking and will absorb the batter better.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: A slight lumpiness ensures a custard-like texture.
- Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cardamom for an aromatic twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Allow the dish to cool slightly before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Place in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it remains crispy on the outside.
With this guide, you’re ready to create mouthwatering Hawaiian Roll French Toast that’s perfect every time. Whether you’re enjoying it as a special weekend treat or a cozy weekday breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients and let’s toast to a delicious start to the day!
Did you make our recipe at home?
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.