Hawaiian Roll French Toast 🍍🥥

A Tropical Twist on a Breakfast Classic!

If you think French toast couldn’t get any better — 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 you’ve got Hawaiian Roll French Toast — a breakfast that tastes like sunshine and island paradise. ☀️🌺

Whether you’re serving it for a lazy Sunday brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a tropical-themed morning treat, this recipe will make everyone ask for seconds!


🌴 Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Soft, sweet & rich: Hawaiian rolls make the best texture for French toast.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep.
Tropical flavor: Hints of coconut, pineapple, and vanilla for island vibes.
Versatile: Perfect as individual rolls or baked as a pull-apart casserole.
Crowd favorite: Great for holidays, brunch parties, or breakfast in bed!


🍞 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything to bring this island-inspired French toast to life:

  • 1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls (like King’s 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)

🌺 Optional Toppings

  • Fresh pineapple chunks or bananas
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Powdered sugar
  • Maple syrup or coconut syrup
  • Whipped cream

👩‍🍳 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) — 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 10–15 seconds per side — 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 2–3 minutes, until golden brown and caramelized.
Repeat with the remaining rolls, adding more butter as needed.


Step 5: Serve with Tropical Flair 🌺

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!


🏝️ Make It a Baked Version

If you’re feeding a crowd, turn this recipe into a Hawaiian Roll French Toast Bake:

  1. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the top.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until golden and puffed.
  5. Serve warm with syrup and fruit!

It’s effortless, delicious, and perfect for holidays like Easter, Mother’s Day, or Christmas morning. 🎄


💡 Tips for the Best Hawaiian Roll French Toast

Don’t over-soak: Hawaiian rolls are very soft — a quick dip works best.
Use coconut milk: For a richer tropical flavor.
Butter your pan: Keeps the rolls golden and adds flavor.
Add pineapple juice: Replace a few tablespoons of milk with pineapple juice for a citrusy kick.
Chill for a bake: For a casserole version, let it rest so the custard soaks evenly.


🍍 Delicious Variations

🍌 Banana Coconut Style: Add sliced bananas and drizzle with coconut syrup.
🍫 Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add chocolate chips between layers or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
🍓 Berry Paradise: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries.
🥥 Piña Colada French Toast: Use coconut milk and crushed pineapple in the custard!


🧊 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.


⚖️ Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 14g
  • Carbs: 38g
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Protein: 8g

(Values may vary based on ingredients and toppings.)


🌅 A Bite of Island Sunshine

Hawaiian Roll French Toast isn’t just breakfast — it’s 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 you’ll feel like you’re enjoying brunch on a beachside patio, even if you’re still in your pajamas. 🌊🍹

This recipe is simple, satisfying, and bursting with the warmth and sweetness of island flavors — truly the best way to start your day!

Print
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Hawaiian Roll French Toast 🍍🥥


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• 8–12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (or King’s 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

  1. Slice each roll in half horizontally. Set aside.
  2. In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream (if using), vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  3. Dip each roll half into the egg mixture, letting it soak for 5–10 seconds per side.
  4. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt butter.
  5. Cook roll halves 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Serve warm, topped with pineapple, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle with toasted coconut for extra tropical flair!

Perfect for brunch, holidays, or turning breakfast into vacation!

💡 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 (2–3 roll halves each) , Calories : 280 per serving , Net Carbs: 38g , Fats: 10g , Protein: 8g

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