Samantha When I want a breakfast that feels indulgent yet effortless, I always turn to Hawaiian Roll French Toast. The naturally sweet, buttery rolls make the perfect base for a custardy, golden bake that tastes like a cross between classic French toast and bread pudding. It’s soft in the middle, slightly crisp on top, and loaded with cinnamon-vanilla flavor. Whether you’re making a quick Hawaiian roll breakfast recipe on a Sunday morning or an overnight Hawaiian roll French toast casserole for a holiday gathering, this dish delivers every single time.
What I love about using Hawaiian rolls instead of regular bread is their unique texture and subtle sweetness. They soak up the custard beautifully without becoming soggy, which makes the final dish irresistibly fluffy and rich. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served with powdered sugar and maple syrup, or dressed up with berries, nuts, or caramel drizzle. According to Healthline, bread varieties like enriched rolls provide a mix of carbohydrates and essential nutrients that can give you lasting energy in the morning.
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen not just because it’s easy, but because it brings people together. Whether it’s a crowd-pleasing Hawaiian roll French toast brunch recipe or a simple make-ahead breakfast for the week, this dish guarantees smiles at the table.
Hawaiian Roll French Toast – Fluffy Pull-Apart Breakfast Bake with Sweet Rolls & Cinnamon Custard
Ingredients
- 1 pack Hawaiian rolls 12 count
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk whole or 2%
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp butter melted
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar maple syrup, fresh berries
Instructions
- Prep the Rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally (keep them connected).
- Make the Custard: Whisk eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a bowl.
- Soak the Rolls: Pour custard over rolls, pressing gently to absorb.
- Add Butter: Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake: Place in oven for 25 minutes until golden and set.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Perfect Hawaiian Roll French Toast Bake
1. Use stale or day-old rolls: Slightly dried-out Hawaiian rolls soak up the cinnamon custard mixture better without turning soggy. If your rolls are fresh, lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes before soaking to help them absorb the custard evenly. 2. Whisk your custard thoroughly: Make sure the milk, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon are fully combined before pouring over the rolls. This ensures every bite of your pull-apart French toast is rich, fluffy, and full of flavor. 3. Don’t skip the overnight soak: Letting your sweet rolls sit in the custard overnight (or at least 2–3 hours) makes the center soft and custardy while keeping the edges golden and slightly crisp. 4. Bake low and slow: For that signature fluffy French toast bake texture, bake at a moderate temperature until the custard is set and the tops are lightly caramelized. Avoid high heat, which can cause uneven cooking. 5. Finish with toppings for brunch appeal: Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and add fresh berries or butter for a restaurant-style presentation that’s perfect for holiday mornings or weekend brunches. 6. Customize the flavor: For a twist, add a hint of nutmeg, a spoon of brown sugar, or even a layer of cream cheese filling for a more indulgent Hawaiian roll breakfast bake.Recipe Overview
- Course: Breakfast / Brunch
- Cuisine: American comfort food
- Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
- Main Ingredients: Hawaiian rolls, eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, butter
- Best For: Holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, meal prep-friendly mornings, family comfort meals
Nutritional Snapshot
Approximate nutrition per serving of Hawaiian Roll French Toast (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 11g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Calcium: 10% DV
- Iron: 12% DV
(Source: USDA FoodData Central)
Budget Breakdown
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast bake is budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd:
- Hawaiian rolls (1 pack of 12): $4.50
- Eggs (4 large): $1.75
- Milk (1 cup): $0.75
- Butter (3 tbsp): $0.90
- Cinnamon, vanilla, sugar: $1.20
- Total Cost: $9.10 (~$1.13 per serving)
Behind the Recipe
The inspiration for my Hawaiian bread French toast bake came during a holiday brunch when I needed something quick, filling, and festive. I had a pack of King’s Hawaiian rolls on hand, and instead of serving them as dinner rolls, I decided to transform them into a pull-apart French toast casserole. The result? A dish that was fluffy, custardy, and slightly caramelized on top, earning rave reviews from everyone at the table.
What makes this recipe so special is how it combines simplicity with comfort. Hawaiian rolls are soft, slightly sweet, and buttery—perfect for soaking up a spiced custard without falling apart. They also create a baked sweet roll breakfast casserole that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort. It’s one of those recipes that works equally well for Christmas morning, a weekend brunch, or even a weekday meal prep.
Beyond flavor, this dish offers nutritional value too. Eggs and milk add protein and calcium, while the bread provides satisfying carbs. According to Mayo Clinic, eggs are not only a rich source of protein but also packed with vitamins like B12 and minerals that support brain and muscle function. That means this Hawaiian roll French toast casserole is more than just comfort food—it’s a balanced way to start your day.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Fluffy and Comforting
One of the best parts of making Hawaiian Roll French Toast is how beautifully the rolls puff up in the oven. Their sweet, buttery flavor transforms into soft, custardy centers with golden, slightly crisp tops. It’s the perfect balance of texture, giving you that cozy, comforting bite every time. Unlike regular bread, Hawaiian rolls have a naturally rich taste that makes this Hawaiian bread French toast bake stand out as a true crowd-pleaser.
Easy to Make
This is one of my favorite quick Hawaiian roll breakfast recipes because it comes together in just 35 minutes with minimal effort. With only a handful of ingredients—rolls, eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla—you can create a dish that feels gourmet without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that delivers impressive results even on the busiest mornings.
Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether you’re making a holiday Hawaiian roll French toast casserole, a weekend brunch centerpiece, or a simple weekday family breakfast, this recipe adapts to every occasion. It’s elegant enough for Christmas morning but easy enough for casual gatherings. You can even cut it into squares and pack it for a meal-prep breakfast. According to WebMD, vanilla not only enhances flavor but may also provide calming effects—making this French toast both delicious and mood-boosting.
Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved
Kids absolutely love this recipe because it’s soft, sweet, and easy to eat. The bite-sized rolls are perfect for little hands, and when dusted with powdered sugar or topped with syrup, they’re irresistible. Adults love it just as much because it feels indulgent without being overly heavy, making this King’s Hawaiian French toast casserole a family favorite.
Make-Ahead Option
One of the biggest advantages of this dish is its flexibility. You can prep it the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning as an overnight Hawaiian roll French toast casserole. This is especially handy for holidays, brunch parties, or busy mornings when you want a hot, homemade breakfast ready with no extra work. The custard absorbs beautifully overnight, giving you even fluffier results.
More Sweet Breakfasts You’ll Fall in Love With
Family Favorite: Chicken Potato Broccoli Casserole
Fluffy Start: Japanese Matcha Pancakes
Warm & Cozy: Apple Cinnamon Greek Yogurt Muffins
Perfect For
Holiday Breakfasts and Brunches
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast makes the ultimate festive centerpiece for holiday mornings like Christmas, Easter, or Thanksgiving. Its sweet, fluffy texture and golden-baked top make it look as good as it tastes, and since it can be prepped ahead as an overnight Hawaiian roll French toast casserole, it’s a stress-free option when you’re busy hosting. Serve it with fresh berries, maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar, and it instantly feels like a celebratory dish everyone will remember.
Meal Prep Mornings
If you’re looking for a make-ahead Hawaiian roll French toast recipe, this one works perfectly for meal prep. Once baked, you can slice it into individual portions and store in the fridge or freezer for reheatable breakfasts all week. The rolls keep their custardy texture beautifully, and with just a quick warm-up in the oven or microwave, you’ll have a cozy, homemade breakfast ready in minutes. This approach not only saves time but also helps you start the day with something filling and satisfying.
Family Gatherings
For birthdays, potlucks, or weekend brunch buffets, this King’s Hawaiian French toast casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It serves multiple people with ease, requires minimal prep, and looks impressive on the table. Kids love pulling apart the fluffy rolls, while adults appreciate the rich, custardy flavor. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, so I always recommend making a double batch when serving a crowd.
Comfort Food Moments
Sometimes, you just want a recipe that feels like home. This Hawaiian bread French toast bake is perfect for those cozy mornings when you need comfort food in its sweetest, simplest form. The combination of buttery rolls, cinnamon, and vanilla makes the kitchen smell heavenly as it bakes, and every bite feels like a warm hug. According to Cleveland Clinic, comfort foods can actually boost mood and provide emotional satisfaction, which is exactly why this dish is so beloved in my household.
More Irresistible Breakfasts You’ll Want to Try Next
Savory & Satisfying: Honey Peach White Cheddar Grilled Cheese
A Classic Favorite: Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes
Warm & Wholesome: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pack Hawaiian rolls (12 count)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries
Ingredient Highlights
- Hawaiian Rolls: Sweet, buttery, and fluffy, perfect for soaking custard.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness. The National Institutes of Health highlights eggs as an excellent source of protein.
- Cinnamon & Vanilla: Warm spices that give classic French toast flavor.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps crisp the top.
- Milk: Keeps the custard smooth and creamy.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast
- Prep the Rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally (keep them connected).
- Make the Custard: Whisk eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a bowl.
- Soak the Rolls: Pour custard over rolls, pressing gently to absorb.
- Add Butter: Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake: Place in oven for 25 minutes until golden and set.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup.
Sam’s Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t Over-Soak: Hawaiian rolls are soft, so press gently to absorb custard without turning mushy.
- Bake Until Golden: The tops should be slightly crisp while the inside stays fluffy.
- Add Toppings: Fresh fruit, nuts, or flavored syrups make it even more special.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate for an easy overnight French toast bake.
Easy Variations You Can Try
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese
If you love indulgent breakfasts, try turning this recipe into a Hawaiian roll French toast casserole with cream cheese. By adding a sweet cream cheese filling between the rolls, you get a cheesecake-like layer that makes the dish extra decadent. It’s perfect for holiday mornings or when you want to serve a rich and creamy Hawaiian bread French toast bake that feels like dessert for breakfast.
Cinnamon Sugar Pull-Apart Style
One of the easiest twists is brushing the rolls with melted butter and sprinkling them generously with cinnamon sugar before baking. This creates a cinnamon sugar Hawaiian roll French toast pull-apart that’s slightly crisp on the outside, fluffy inside, and perfectly sweet without needing much syrup. According to Healthline, cinnamon also provides antioxidants and may help support blood sugar control, so it’s a flavorful and functional addition.
Holiday French Toast Bake
Make this recipe festive by adding seasonal ingredients like cranberries, dried cherries, or even a sprinkle of pumpkin spice. This variation turns the dish into a holiday Hawaiian roll French toast bake that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas morning. You can also drizzle with white chocolate or add crushed pecans for extra holiday flair, making it both visually stunning and delicious.
Caramel Drizzle for Dessert Lovers
For those who prefer their French toast extra indulgent, swap the maple syrup for caramel sauce. This transforms the dish into a caramel Hawaiian bread French toast casserole that doubles as a dessert. It’s a great option for birthdays, brunch parties, or even as a sweet centerpiece for a potluck. The combination of buttery rolls, creamy custard, and rich caramel drizzle creates a flavor profile that no one can resist.
More Sweet Recipes You’ll Want to Bake Next
Family Comfort Favorite: Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Fluffy & Classic: Fluffy Soufflé Pancakes Recipe
Warm & Wholesome: Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches
Storage and Reheat Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave briefly.
Make It a Meal
Pair this Hawaiian roll French toast with:
- Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich
- Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes
- Overnight Croissant Breakfast Casserole
Or explore more ideas in my Breakfast Recipes tag, Make-Ahead Breakfasts tag, and Comfort Food Dinner tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it for a delicious overnight Hawaiian roll French toast casserole that’s warm, fluffy, and stress-free for holiday mornings or brunch.
Is Hawaiian Roll French Toast good for meal prep?
Definitely. Once baked, slice into portions and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. This makes it a perfect make-ahead Hawaiian bread French toast bake that can be reheated quickly for busy weekday breakfasts.
What makes Hawaiian rolls different from regular bread?
Hawaiian rolls are enriched with sugar, butter, and sometimes pineapple juice, giving them a unique sweet flavor and pillowy texture. This makes Hawaiian Roll French Toast much softer and more flavorful than French toast made with regular sandwich bread. According to Britannica, enriched breads often have a richer taste and softer crumb, which is why Hawaiian rolls work so well in casseroles.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, it’s easy to make a dairy-free Hawaiian roll French toast casserole by substituting almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for the dairy milk. You can also use coconut oil or vegan butter for the topping.
What toppings go best with Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Classic toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, and whipped cream are always great. For a twist, try caramel drizzle, cream cheese glaze, or fresh seasonal fruit. These additions make the dish taste like a holiday Hawaiian roll French toast bake that’s perfect for entertaining.
Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Yes! Once baked, let it cool completely, wrap tightly in foil or freezer bags, and store for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until warmed through. Freezing makes it an excellent make-ahead French toast casserole for Christmas brunch.
How do I reheat Hawaiian Roll French Toast without drying it out?
The best way is to cover it loosely with foil and reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. This keeps the custardy center soft while preventing the tops from getting too dry. Microwave reheating works for individual slices but may make them slightly chewy.
Can I make Hawaiian Roll French Toast healthier?
Yes, you can lighten it up by using reduced-fat milk, less sugar, or adding fruit like blueberries or bananas. Using whole wheat sweet rolls, if available, can also add fiber. According to NIH, whole grains may reduce heart disease risk, so swapping the bread base is a healthy option if you want a more nutritious version.
What’s the difference between Hawaiian Roll French Toast and brioche French toast?
Both Hawaiian rolls and brioche are rich, sweet breads, but Hawaiian rolls have a distinct buttery sweetness and are softer and smaller in size, making them ideal for pull-apart French toast casseroles. Brioche is richer with more eggs and butter, giving it a denser texture.
Can I add fillings to Hawaiian Roll French Toast?
Absolutely! Cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves can be layered into the casserole for added flavor. A cream cheese-stuffed Hawaiian roll French toast bake is especially popular for holiday breakfasts.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe has truly become one of my most-loved dishes to serve at home. It’s warm, fluffy, and full of nostalgic comfort, while still being easy enough for anyone to master. I love how versatile it is—you can make it as a quick Hawaiian roll French toast breakfast for your family, or dress it up as an overnight Hawaiian roll French toast casserole for special occasions.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance: it’s indulgent yet approachable, simple yet impressive. The sweet rolls transform into a custardy bake that feels like a treat, while the cinnamon and vanilla give it that classic French toast flavor everyone craves. For me, it’s proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours of prep to create something truly memorable.
Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead Hawaiian roll French toast casserole for Christmas brunch, a fun recipe for a birthday breakfast, or just a cozy weekend treat, this dish is a guaranteed winner. Once you’ve made it, you’ll find yourself keeping Hawaiian rolls in your pantry just so you’re always ready for the next batch.
“Sweet, fluffy, and baked to golden perfection—this Hawaiian roll French toast is comfort food you’ll want to share with everyone you love.” – Sam
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Fluffy Hawaiian rolls baked into a golden, cinnamon-vanilla custard, topped with powdered sugar and syrup. A quick, family-friendly breakfast ready in 35 minutes.
