Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Hawaiian Roll French Toast makes ordinary mornings feel special. Taking those sweet pillowy King’s Hawaiian rolls and transforming them into golden buttery French toast creates a meltingly soft breakfast with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon. This dish is my go-to for brunches or lazy Sundays when I want a little extra comfort at the table.

My family fell for this at first bite and now my kids light up when they smell it cooking. I have even started making double batches because everybody wants seconds.

Ingredients

• Kings Hawaiian rolls: The classic rolls are key for sweetness and pillow softness Check the packaging to ensure they are fresh with no hard edges
• Large eggs: They make a rich custard base Choose eggs with firm yolks for best texture
• Whole milk: This brings creaminess and moisture Whole milk gives a better richness than skim
• Vanilla extract: Lends warmth Depth and a bakery aroma Use pure vanilla not imitation for fullest flavor
• Ground cinnamon: Gives gentle spice and coziness Find cinnamon with a strong aroma for the best result
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness without making the dish salty
• Unsalted butter: For that golden cooking crust and flavor Select butter without added oils for the cleanest taste
• Maple syrup: For drizzling Choose real maple syrup for a natural sweetness that pairs with the rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rolls:

Carefully slice each Hawaiian roll in half horizontally but keep the halves paired together This makes them easier to dip later and keeps the toast fluffy

Make the Custard:

In a large mixing bowl whisk eggs until yolks and whites are fully blended Pour in milk vanilla and cinnamon plus a pinch of salt Whisk again until completely smooth with no streaks

Set up the Dipping Station:

Transfer the custard into a shallow dish so the roll halves can lay flat and soak evenly A pie plate or baking dish works perfectly

Heat the Cooking Surface:

Place a skillet or griddle over medium heat Add one tablespoon of butter Swirl the butter so it coats every bit of the pan and preheats evenly

Soak the Rolls:

Working in batches gently dip roll halves into the custard Press down lightly and let them sit just until the bread drinks up some custard but does not fall apart Too much soaking will make them soggy

Cook to Perfection:

Lay the custard soaked rolls cut side down in the hot skillet Cook without pressing down for two to three minutes per side The goal is deeply golden brown surfaces with a creamy interior Add another tablespoon of butter for the next batch for best results

Repeat and Serve:

Set cooked rolls aside on a warm plate Continue with the rest of the rolls until all are done Serve immediately while hot

Finish with Syrup:

Pour maple syrup generously over the warm French toast right before serving The heat will bring out the aroma and soak into the rolls for big flavor

Save

My favorite part of this recipe is watching the rolls puff up and turn golden in the pan The vanilla custard soaks in and the whole kitchen fills with that dreamy bakery scent It always reminds me of brunch with my cousins when we would try to outdo each other with the most perfect syrup pour

Storage Tips

Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator It will stay soft for up to three days To reheat place on a lined baking sheet in a 350 degree oven for about eight minutes so the outside is slightly crisp again If you want to freeze place slices between pieces of parchment and keep them in a zip top bag for up to a month

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Hawaiian rolls use any soft and enriched slider rolls Milk can be swapped with half and half for an extra rich custard If you are dairy free try a rich oat milk and plant butter Cinnamon can be replaced with pumpkin pie spice for a hint of autumn flair

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a cloud of whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries Citrus zest on top can balance the sweetness For brunches offer sliced bananas or toasted coconut on the side For a holiday twist try a bit of orange marmalade or lemon curd alongside the syrup

Save

Background on the Dish

French toast has centuries of tradition behind it known in France as pain perdu meaning lost bread Since these sweet rolls are so beloved for celebrations this version feels festive but is rooted in the idea of turning leftover bread into something memorable The fluffy texture of the rolls makes it a playful upgrade from the usual loaf slice

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use regular bread instead of Hawaiian rolls?

Hawaiian rolls provide a unique sweetness and pillowy texture, but you can substitute brioche or challah for a similar soft and rich result.

→ How do I prevent the rolls from becoming soggy?

Slightly stale rolls work best. Dip them briefly in the custard so they soak up flavor without falling apart in the pan.

→ What toppings pair well with this French toast?

Classic maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream make excellent additions.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the custard mixture ahead. Cooked French toast can be reheated in a toaster oven.

→ Is there a dairy-free version?

You can substitute the whole milk with your favorite non-dairy milk and use plant-based butter for cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best texture.