A Tropical Twist on a Breakfast Classic!
If you think French toast couldnāt get any better ā wait until you try it made with Hawaiian rolls! These sweet, buttery rolls soak up the custard perfectly, turning soft and fluffy on the inside with a golden, caramelized exterior. Add a hint of coconut, pineapple, and maple syrup, and youāve got Hawaiian Roll French Toast ā a breakfast that tastes like sunshine and island paradise. āļøšŗ
Whether youāre serving it for a lazy Sunday brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a tropical-themed morning treat, this recipe will make everyone ask for seconds!
š“ Why Youāll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast
ā
Soft, sweet & rich: Hawaiian rolls make the best texture for French toast.
ā
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
ā
Tropical flavor: Hints of coconut, pineapple, and vanilla for island vibes.
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Versatile: Perfect as individual rolls or baked as a pull-apart casserole.
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Crowd favorite: Great for holidays, brunch parties, or breakfast in bed!
š Ingredients Youāll Need
Hereās everything to bring this island-inspired French toast to life:
- 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls (like Kingās Hawaiian)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or coconut milk for extra flavor)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
šŗ Optional Toppings
- Fresh pineapple chunks or bananas
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup or coconut syrup
- Whipped cream
š©āš³ How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Heavy cream
- Maple syrup
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
You can make this two ways:
- Individual style: Separate each roll and dip individually.
- Pull-apart bake: Slice the whole sheet of rolls in half horizontally (like a sandwich) ā perfect for a family-style casserole.
Step 3: Dip the Rolls
Dip each roll (or the large sheet) into the custard mixture. Let it soak for 10ā15 seconds per side ā enough to absorb flavor without falling apart.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
Cook the soaked rolls on each side for about 2ā3 minutes, until golden brown and caramelized.
Repeat with the remaining rolls, adding more butter as needed.
Step 5: Serve with Tropical Flair šŗ
Transfer to a plate and top with:
- Fresh pineapple chunks
- Toasted coconut flakes
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- A drizzle of maple syrup or coconut syrup
Serve warm and enjoy your tropical morning escape!
šļø Make It a Baked Version
If youāre feeding a crowd, turn this recipe into a Hawaiian Roll French Toast Bake:
- Arrange the rolls in a greased 9Ć13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30ā35 minutes, until golden and puffed.
- Serve warm with syrup and fruit!
Itās effortless, delicious, and perfect for holidays like Easter, Motherās Day, or Christmas morning. š
š” Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast
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Donāt over-soak: Hawaiian rolls are very soft ā a quick dip works best.
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Use coconut milk: For a richer tropical flavor.
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Butter your pan: Keeps the rolls golden and adds flavor.
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Add pineapple juice: Replace a few tablespoons of milk with pineapple juice for a citrusy kick.
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Chill for a bake: For a casserole version, let it rest so the custard soaks evenly.
š Delicious Variations
š Banana Coconut Style: Add sliced bananas and drizzle with coconut syrup.
š« Chocolate Loverās Twist: Add chocolate chips between layers or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
š Berry Paradise: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
š„„ PiƱa Colada French Toast: Use coconut milk and crushed pineapple in the custard!
š§ Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through.
āļø Nutrition (Per Serving ā Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 38g
- Sugar: 16g
- Protein: 8g
(Values may vary based on ingredients and toppings.)
š A Bite of Island Sunshine
Hawaiian Roll French Toast isnāt just breakfast ā itās an experience. The soft, buttery rolls soak up the custard beautifully, creating a light, pillowy texture that pairs perfectly with tropical toppings. One bite, and youāll feel like youāre enjoying brunch on a beachside patio, even if youāre still in your pajamas. šš¹
This recipe is simple, satisfying, and bursting with the warmth and sweetness of island flavors ā truly the best way to start your day!
Print
Hawaiian Roll French Toast šš„„
Ingredients
⢠8ā12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (or Kingās Hawaiian)
⢠3 eggs
⢠½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
⢠¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for richness)
⢠1 tsp vanilla extract
⢠½ tsp ground cinnamon
⢠Pinch of salt
⢠2 tbsp butter or coconut oil (for cooking)
For the topping:
⢠½ cup crushed pineapple, drained (or grilled pineapple rings)
⢠Maple syrup or honey
⢠Powdered sugar (optional)
⢠Toasted coconut flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Slice each roll in half horizontally. Set aside.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream (if using), vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Dip each roll half into the egg mixture, letting it soak for 5ā10 seconds per side.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt butter.
- Cook roll halves 2ā3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm, topped with pineapple, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Optional: Sprinkle with toasted coconut for extra tropical flair!
⨠Perfect for brunch, holidays, or turning breakfast into vacation!
š” Make ahead: Assemble unbaked and refrigerate overnight. Cook fresh in the morning.
PREP TIME & NUTRITION :
Prep Time : 10 mins , Cook Time : 10 mins , Total Time : 20 mins , Servings : 4 (2ā3 roll halves each) , Calories : 280 per serving , Net Carbs: 38g , Fats: 10g , Protein: 8g