This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe takes a beloved breakfast classic and turns it into something extraordinary. By using King’s Hawaiian rolls instead of regular bread, I create bite-sized French toast that’s incredibly soft on the inside with a caramelized, golden crust on the outside. The built-in sweetness of the rolls pairs perfectly with the warm vanilla-cinnamon custard, delivering a flavor that’s both nostalgic and elevated. It’s a crowd-pleaser that transforms lazy mornings into something a little more special.

Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the pillowy texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls absorbs just the right amount of custard without falling apart. They hold their shape, brown beautifully, and have a subtly sweet flavor that works with or without syrup. This recipe is quick, easy, and totally customizable—perfect for busy mornings or indulgent weekend brunches. Plus, the individual size of the rolls makes serving super convenient, especially for kids or a big crowd.

Ingredients

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

1 package King’s Hawaiian rolls
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Butter for cooking
Maple syrup for serving

Directions

Slice the rolls: I take the whole slab of King’s Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally using a serrated knife. Then I gently separate them into tops and bottoms to make dipping easier.
Prepare the custard: In a large mixing bowl, I whisk the eggs until smooth and frothy. Then I add the milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt, whisking again until everything is fully combined. I pour the mixture into a shallow dish for easy dipping.
Dip the rolls: I soak each roll half in the custard for about 15–20 seconds per side—just enough to let them absorb the mixture without becoming soggy.
Heat the skillet: I place a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt a generous amount of butter. The butter should sizzle but not smoke.
Cook the rolls: I cook the soaked rolls in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until both sides are golden brown and the center is cooked through.
Serve warm: I plate the French toast immediately, topping them with butter and a drizzle of maple syrup while still warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Serving Size: 3 whole rolls (6 halves)
Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 15–25 minutes

Variations

Overnight Casserole: I sometimes layer the rolls in a baking dish and pour the custard over them to soak overnight. In the morning, I just bake it at 350°F for about 35 minutes.
Tropical Twist: I top it with mango, pineapple, and toasted coconut flakes for a Hawaiian vibe.
Berry Bliss: I serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fresh, tangy balance to the sweetness.
Nutty Delight: I sprinkle toasted pecans or almonds over the top for crunch.
Dessert-Style: A drizzle of Nutella or warm caramel sauce turns this into a decadent dessert.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, I skip the microwave and use the toaster oven or a skillet to bring back the crisp exterior. The air fryer also works great for quick reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it as an overnight casserole or cook it ahead, then refrigerate. When ready, I just reheat it in a skillet or toaster oven for the best texture.

Why is my French toast turning out soggy?

It’s usually because I soaked the rolls too long or had the pan on low heat. Also, if I used too much milk and not enough egg, the custard won’t set properly. I stick with the 4:1 egg-to-milk ratio.

Can I use another type of bread?

Definitely. While the Hawaiian rolls are the magic here, I’ve also used challah, brioche, or Texas toast with good results. The key is a slightly sweet, sturdy bread that can soak up custard.

How do I reheat leftovers properly?

I avoid the microwave and instead reheat them in an air fryer, toaster oven, or skillet. That way, they stay crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Is this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free friendly?

Yes, with a few tweaks. I swap in gluten-free sweet rolls or thick-sliced gluten-free bread and use almond or oat milk. For cooking, I use a plant-based butter or coconut oil.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast is my go-to when I want something comforting, quick, and a little special. The rolls bring just the right sweetness and texture, making every bite feel like a treat. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a special holiday brunch, I always come back to this recipe because it never fails to impress—and it’s just so easy to make. Give it a try, and I think it’ll become one of your favorites too.