If you’re looking for a breakfast that combines soft, buttery sweetness with a warm cinnamon hug, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe. Imagine perfectly golden Hawaiian rolls soaked in a luscious cinnamon-vanilla custard, then coated in a crunchy, aromatic cinnamon sugar that makes every bite heavenly. This dish is an absolute showstopper for weekend brunches or special holiday mornings, and trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a beloved favorite you want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

square image A white marbled surface holds a square white tray filled with 15 soft, golden-brown dinner rolls, showing their slightly shiny tops and fluffy texture. Below the tray, there are several small clear glass bowls arranged neatly, one with white granulated sugar, one with small cubes of yellow butter, one with white powdery flour, and another with dark brown liquid, likely vanilla or syrup. To the right, two small glass bowls contain light and dark brown powders, possibly cinnamon and another spice. In the bottom area, a clear measuring cup holds milk, and beside it, three brown eggs sit in white egg cartons. The bright light shows the freshness and detail of each ingredient. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is delightfully simple, relying on just a handful of ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a crucial role, from the sweet Hawaiian rolls that provide the soft base, to the warm cinnamon and vanilla notes that infuse the custard and sugar coating with irresistible flavor and aroma.

12 Hawaiian sweet rolls: These soft, fluffy rolls offer the perfect sweetness and texture for soaking up the custard without falling apart.
3 large eggs: Eggs are essential to create the rich, creamy custard that gives the French toast its tender bite.
¾ cup milk: Milk lightens the custard, helping the rolls soak in all those rich flavors without becoming too dense.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant sweetness that elevates the overall flavor to next-level delicious.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: This spice brings a cozy warmth to both the custard and the sugar coating—pure comfort in every bite.
2 tbsp butter: Butter is key for that golden, crispy crust on the skillet or griddle.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Mixed with cinnamon, it creates the irresistible sweet coating that finishes the French toast perfectly.
1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating): Sprinkled over the sugar for that extra cinnamon punch and crunch on the outside.

How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl until everything is smoothly combined. This custard will soak into the Hawaiian rolls to create that luxurious texture that makes this French toast truly special.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a separate bowl, stir the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together. This mixture will coat the French toast immediately after cooking, giving it a crispy, flavorful finish that’s simply addictive.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the butter, letting it melt and bubble gently to create a perfect surface for cooking the rolls to golden perfection.

Step 4: Dip the Hawaiian Rolls

One at a time, dip each Hawaiian roll into the egg mixture. Make sure to coat all sides well, allowing the custard to soak into the roll’s soft interior for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Step 5: Cook Until Golden Brown

Place the coated rolls on the hot skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. The butter will crisp up the outside while keeping the inside wonderfully soft and custardy.

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the French toast bites are still warm, roll them immediately in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This ensures the sugar sticks well and gives you that melt-in-your-mouth crunchy coating with every bite.

How to Serve Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

square image A stack of five thick, golden-brown cubes of French toast arranged in a pyramid, each piece having a slightly crisp, textured surface with darker browned edges. On the bottom layer, the white plate is scattered with bright red, sliced strawberries that add a fresh color contrast. A dusting of fine white powdered sugar lightly covers the top of the stack. Sticky amber syrup is being poured from above, dripping down the sides of the French toast and pooling slightly on the plate, adding a shiny, glossy finish. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a white and blue checkered cloth partially visible on the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an irresistible touch, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top or add a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries or sliced bananas can brighten the plate and add a fresh contrast to the sweet, spiced French toast bites.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or sausage for those who crave a savory balance. A fresh fruit salad or a simple yogurt parfait also complements the richness without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cinnamon sugar-coated rolls on a platter and drizzling warm maple syrup or a cream cheese glaze over the top for an elegant brunch table centerpiece. Serving them on skewers as bite-size French toast pops is also a fun idea for kid-friendly parties or brunch gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rolls separated by parchment paper if you want to maintain their crispy coating.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked rolls individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy a quick breakfast anytime.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to bring back the crispy cinnamon sugar coating. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rolls soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are perfect for their sweetness and softness, you can use challah, brioche, or even thick sandwich bread. Just keep in mind the texture and sweetness will vary slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or fish products.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the milk for your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative to achieve similar delicious results.

What’s the best way to store the cinnamon sugar mixture?

Store any leftover cinnamon sugar in an airtight container at room temperature for several weeks. It’s perfect for sprinkling on oatmeal, toast, or even fresh fruit!

Can I add any extras to the custard mixture?

Feel free to experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest for a unique twist that adds extra flavor to your Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is a delightful way to elevate your breakfast with minimal effort but maximum deliciousness. The balance of soft, sweet rolls, warm cinnamon, and that irresistible sugar crunch makes it a cozy, feel-good dish perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try, and you might just find it stealing the spotlight on your brunch menu from now on!

Hawaiian Roll French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

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3.8 from 78 reviews

Author: Jane
Total Time: 25 mins
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Soft and buttery Hawaiian rolls are dipped in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard, then cooked on the stovetop until golden and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture for an irresistible and flavorful breakfast or brunch treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
3 large eggs
¾ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp butter

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

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Instructions

Prepare the custard mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined to create a smooth, flavorful custard.
Make the cinnamon sugar coating: In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly to prepare the coating that will be used after cooking.
Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter, ensuring it coats the surface evenly and is hot enough for cooking the rolls.
Dip the Hawaiian rolls: Take each Hawaiian roll and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure all sides are well coated with the custard to absorb the flavorful mixture.
Cook the rolls: Place the custard-coated rolls onto the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden brown crust that is slightly crispy but still soft inside.
Coat with cinnamon sugar: While the French toast rolls are still warm, immediately roll them in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture so the coating sticks well and adds a sweet crunch.
Serve: Serve the coated rolls warm, optionally with maple syrup for added sweetness, and enjoy this delicious, comforting breakfast treat.

Notes

Great for holiday breakfasts and brunches, offering a festive and sweet option.
Adding a cream cheese glaze can increase richness and sweetness for an indulgent twist.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Breakfast
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American