Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Imagine waking up to the smell of warm, buttery, golden-brown Hawaiian Roll French Toast sizzling on a skillet. The soft, pillowy texture of the Hawaiian rolls, soaked in a sweet vanilla custard, creates the ultimate breakfast comfort food. Whether you’re making a quick weekday treat or serving brunch for a crowd, this easy French toast recipe is guaranteed to impress.

So, why Hawaiian rolls instead of regular bread? Well, if you’ve ever had King’s Hawaiian Rolls, you know they’re slightly sweet, irresistibly fluffy, and buttery-soft which makes them perfect for soaking up that rich custard mixture without falling apart.

And the best part? This Hawaiian Roll French Toast can be made in multiple ways skillet-fried, baked, or even stuffed with sweet fillings! Sounds delicious, right? Let’s get started.

What Makes Hawaiian Rolls Perfect for French Toast?

Soft, Sweet, and Buttery Texture

Unlike standard white bread, Hawaiian rolls have a naturally rich, slightly sweet taste. This means you can use less sugar in your custard while still getting a perfectly sweet and indulgent bite.

“The secret to the best French toast? Starting with the right bread! Hawaiian rolls absorb just the right amount of custard without turning soggy.”

How Hawaiian Rolls Absorb the Custard Mix

Since Hawaiian rolls are thicker and more structured than regular sandwich bread, they hold their shape beautifully when soaked in the egg mixture. This results in a soft, custardy center with a crispy, golden-brown exterior exactly what you want in French toast!

“No more sad, mushy French toast! Hawaiian rolls give you that soft-yet-firm texture every time.”

Ingredients Needed for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Before we start cooking, let’s go over everything you’ll need.

Ingredient List

“Using the right balance of eggs, milk, and spices ensures that your French toast turns out perfectly rich and flavorful.”

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get cooking!

1. How to Prepare the Custard Mixture

The custard mixture is the key to flavorful, soft, and creamy Hawaiian Roll French Toast. Here’s how to make it:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar until fully combined.
2. Make sure the mixture is smooth and lump-free this ensures every bite of French toast has the perfect texture.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish, making it easy to dip the rolls evenly.

“Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist!”

2. Dipping & Cooking the Rolls to Perfection

Here’s where the magic happens!

1. Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half, keeping them in pairs to create mini French toast bites.
2. Dip each roll briefly in the custard about 5 seconds per side. Don’t let them soak too long, or they’ll become too soft!
3. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and place the rolls cut-side down.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping carefully until golden brown.

“A hot skillet and butter create that crispy, caramelized crust don’t rush this step!”

3. Best Cooking Methods: Skillet vs. Oven Baking

Wondering if you should pan-fry or bake your Hawaiian Roll French Toast? Here’s a comparison:

How to Bake Hawaiian Roll French Toast

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange dipped Hawaiian rolls in a buttered baking dish.
3. Pour any leftover custard over the rolls for extra flavor.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and set.

“Oven-baking is perfect for brunch gatherings just pop it in and let it cook while you enjoy your coffee!”

Common Problems and Solutions When Making Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Even with an easy recipe like this, things can go wrong. Here’s how to avoid common mistakes:

1. French Toast is Too Soggy – How to Fix It

✔ Don’t soak the rolls too long 5 seconds per side is plenty.
✔ Use day-old Hawaiian rolls (slightly stale bread absorbs better!).
✔ Cook on medium heat so the inside cooks before the outside burns.

“Soggy French toast is usually from too much liquid stick to the right egg-to-milk ratio!”

2. Rolls Are Not Cooking Evenly – What Went Wrong?

✔ Preheat your skillet before adding the rolls.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan cook in batches for even browning.
✔ Flip gently to avoid breaking apart the soft rolls.

“A hot, evenly heated pan is the secret to perfectly golden-brown French toast!”

3. Achieving the Perfect Golden Brown Crust

✔ Use butter, not just oil, for a rich, crispy crust.
✔ Let the rolls sit undisturbed while cooking before flipping.
✔ Sprinkle a little sugar on top before flipping for caramelization.

“The best French toast has that crispy, caramelized crust with a soft center perfection!”

Delicious Variations of Hawaiian Roll French Toast

One of the best things about Hawaiian Roll French Toast is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to make it extra indulgent, healthier, or add a tropical twist, here are some fun variations to try!

1. Stuffed Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Want to take your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to the next level? Stuff it!

How to Make Stuffed French Toast

1. Slice Hawaiian rolls in half without cutting all the way through (like a sandwich).
2. Fill them with cream cheese, Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit jam.
3. Dip them in the custard mixture as usual.
4. Cook on a skillet until golden brown and gooey inside.

“Stuffing your Hawaiian rolls makes them taste like a warm, sweet-filled pastry irresistible!”

2. Baked Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole

This version is perfect for serving a crowd! Instead of cooking the rolls individually, you can bake them in a custard-filled casserole dish.

How to Make It

1. Arrange whole or halved Hawaiian rolls in a buttered baking dish.
2. Pour the egg custard mixture over the rolls, making sure they soak it up.
3. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon for a caramelized top.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and fluffy.

“Baked French toast is a game-changer for brunch—just pop it in the oven and relax!”

3. Coconut & Pineapple Tropical Twist

Want to bring some Hawaiian island vibes to your breakfast? Try this tropical variation!

✔ Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.
✔ Add crushed pineapple to the custard for a fruity twist.
✔ Top with shredded toasted coconut for extra crunch.
✔ Drizzle with coconut syrup or honey for a sweet finishing touch.

“This tropical version of Hawaiian Roll French Toast tastes like a beach vacation in every bite!”

Best Toppings and Syrups for Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Toppings can make or break a French toast dish. Here are some delicious ways to take your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to the next level!

1. Classic Toppings: Maple Syrup & Powdered Sugar

Sometimes, simple is best. A drizzle of pure maple syrup and a light dusting of powdered sugar add just the right amount of sweetness.

“Maple syrup soaks into the fluffy Hawaiian rolls, making each bite melt in your mouth!”

2. Fruity Additions: Berries, Bananas, and More

Fresh fruit adds natural sweetness and freshness to balance the richness of the dish. Try these combos:

Fruit	Why It Works
Sliced Bananas 🍌	Adds creaminess and natural sweetness.
Strawberries & Blueberries 🍓🫐	A fresh, tangy contrast to the sweet rolls.
Mango Chunks 🥭	A tropical, juicy addition.
Caramelized Apples 🍏	Warm and cozy, perfect for fall.

“Adding fruit makes French toast feel fresher and more balanced plus, it looks beautiful!”

3. Whipped Cream, Nuts, and Chocolate Drizzles

Want to make it extra decadent? Try these indulgent toppings:

✔ Whipped cream for a light, airy finish.
✔ Chopped pecans or almonds for crunch.
✔ Chocolate or caramel drizzle for extra richness.
✔ Coconut flakes for a nutty, tropical flavor.

“The best French toast toppings are all about texture soft, crispy, creamy, and sweet!”

How to Store and Reheat Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious.

1. Best Way to Store Leftovers

✔ Let the French toast cool completely before storing.
✔ Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
✔ If you need to store them longer, freeze for up to 2 months.

“For best results, store French toast in a single layer so it doesn’t get soggy!”

2. Reheating Without Losing Flavor & Texture

Want your Hawaiian Roll French Toast to taste fresh again? Try these best reheating methods:

Stovetop (Best for Crispiness)

✔ Heat a pan over medium heat.
✔ Add a little butter or oil and reheat for 2-3 minutes per side.

Oven (Great for Large Batches)

✔ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
✔ Place French toast on a baking sheet and warm for 10 minutes.

Air Fryer (Super Quick!)

✔ Set air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
✔ Reheat for 3-4 minutes until crispy.

“Avoid microwaving if possible it makes French toast soggy!”