This grilled cheese social hawaiian roll french toast is pure brunch bliss soft, pillowy Hawaiian rolls soaked in sweet custard and griddled to golden perfection. My first encounter with this dish was during a sleepy Sunday brunch at a friend’s house, where the sweet-salty aroma filled the kitchen like a warm hug. I couldn’t believe how such a simple twist on classic french toast could deliver so much flavor and joy. Ever since then, this grilled cheese social hawaiian roll french toast has been a favorite in our weekend rotation, perfect for both lazy mornings and celebratory breakfasts.
Why It Works
There’s a reason why this grilled cheese social hawaiian roll french toast recipe has gone viral among brunch lovers:
- Hawaiian rolls are soft and subtly sweet, making them the ideal vehicle for custard.
- Bite-sized pieces cook evenly and caramelize beautifully in the pan.
- It offers a unique pull-apart presentation fun for guests and kids alike.
- The custard-to-bread ratio is perfect, soaking in just enough for creaminess without sogginess.
- You can bake it, griddle it, or air-fry it depending on your preference.
Want more creative takes? Try this 15 Incredible Secrets to Perfect Hawaiian Rolls French Toast (Epic 2024 Guide).
Ingredients List
1 package (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Butter for greasing or griddling
Optional: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream
How to Make Grilled Cheese Social Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Step 1: Prep the Rolls
Gently separate the Hawaiian rolls, keeping the bottoms attached if baking whole or slice individually for stovetop prep. If using whole, slice them horizontally to open like a sandwich.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, both sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Dip the Rolls
Lightly grease a non-stick skillet or preheat the oven to 350°F. Dip each roll (or sandwich half) into the custard mixture, letting it soak for about 10–15 seconds per side.
Step 4: Cook
Griddle Method: Melt butter on a skillet over medium heat. Cook rolls cut-side down for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden and set.
Oven Method: Place soaked rolls in a greased baking dish. Pour any extra custard over the top and bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Plate warm rolls and top with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh berries.
Looking for a buttery alternative? Try the Butter Croissant French Toast Breakfast.
Serving & Garnish
This grilled cheese social hawaiian roll french toast deserves just as much flair as flavor:
- Top with a pat of butter and warm maple syrup
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar and cinnamon
- Serve with whipped cream and berries
- Add caramel sauce or a dollop of mascarpone
- Pair with savory breakfast sausage or scrambled eggs for balance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your grilled cheese social hawaiian roll french toast comes out perfect every time:
- Over-soaking the rolls: They’re soft and absorb fast don’t let them get mushy.
- Using too high heat: This can burn the sugar before the custard cooks.
- Skipping the fat: Use butter or oil in the pan for even browning.
- Not drying rolls first: Slightly stale bread soaks better and gives a firmer texture.
Storage & Reheating
To Store
Cool leftovers completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Freeze
Individually wrap rolls in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen.
To Reheat
Oven: Bake at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.
Microwave: Warm individual pieces for 30–60 seconds.
Rita’s Note
I love making this grilled cheese social hawaiian roll french toast for brunch parties the rolls pull apart perfectly and each piece is gooey, golden, and irresistible. It’s one of those recipes where the simplicity surprises everyone. If you want to add a twist, try layering slices of banana or Nutella between the halves before dipping. Trust me it’s heaven.
And if you’re into fun twists on breakfast, you’ll also love Sourdough French Toast: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Breakfast.
FAQs
Can I use other bread types?
You can, but Hawaiian rolls bring unmatched sweetness and pillowy texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use almond milk and coconut cream. Just watch for flavor changes.
Can I prep it the night before?
Yes. Soak and refrigerate the assembled dish, then bake in the morning.
What’s the best pan to use?
A non-stick skillet or cast iron works best for golden crispiness.
Can I make it savory instead?
Absolutely! Try stuffing with ham and cheese and skipping the sugar in the custard.
Happy cooking with Rita chef ❤️!
Print
Grilled Cheese Social Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A rich, fluffy grilled cheese social Hawaiian roll french toast recipe featuring sweet rolls, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon for the ultimate cozy brunch.
Ingredients
1 package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12-count)
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Butter for greasing or griddling
Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh berries
Instructions
Gently separate the Hawaiian rolls, keeping bottoms connected if baking whole or separating fully for stovetop prep.
Slice horizontally if baking whole or leave intact if dipping individually.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Lightly grease a skillet or baking dish.
Dip rolls or roll halves into custard mixture, soaking for 10–15 seconds per side.
For stovetop method, cook soaked rolls in buttered skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
For oven method, place soaked rolls in a buttered dish, pour remaining custard over top, and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Serve warm with syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
Notes
Use slightly stale rolls for better absorption and texture. Bake for hands-off prep or pan-fry for crispier edges. Add sliced bananas, Nutella, or cream cheese filling between layers for a flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking or Griddling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rolls
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: grilled cheese social hawaiian roll french toast, hawaiian roll french toast recipe, sweet roll custard bake, viral brunch french toast