Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prep & Assemble
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the bottom halves of Hawaiian rolls, cut‑side up, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the top halves, lightly overlapping if needed.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a bowl or large measuring cup, whisk eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Stir in melted butter.
Step 3: Soak
- Pour custard evenly over the assembled rolls, pressing gently to help absorption.
- Let sit 5–10 minutes to soak in, or cover and chill up to 8 hours (preferably overnight).
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, until custard is set and top is golden‑brown.
- Optional: After baking, broil briefly (1–2 minutes) for an extra-carameled top—watch closely.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
- Cool slightly, then top with powdered sugar, fruit, coconut, nuts, and syrup or whipped cream.
- Slice into portions and serve warm.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Pineapple Twist: Add drained crushed pineapple to the custard or as a topping Savory Version: Use ham and cheese between rolls instead of sweet custard Chocolate Oreo Crumble: Press Oreos into the top before baking Berry Bliss: Swirl in raspberry or blueberry jam after baking Gluten‑Free: Use GF Hawaiian‑style rolls or sliced sweet GF bread 🧊 Storage & Make‑Ahead Tips
Make Ahead: Prep the night before; bake fresh in the morning Refrigerate: Store baked leftovers covered up to 4 days Reheat: Microwave individual portions (~20 seconds) or bake at 325°F (5–10 minutes) until warm Freeze: Freeze slices in a single layer, then wrap and store up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before serving ❓ 10 FAQs
Why use Hawaiian rolls?
Their sweetness and soft texture make every bite buttery and tender—no sugary syrup needed. Can I use regular bread?
Yes—brioche, challah, or Texas toast are great alternatives. Do I need to soak overnight?
Not required, but an overnight soak gives deeper flavor and custard penetration. Can it be dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk, cream, and butter substitutes. Can I add fillings?
Absolutely—strawberries, nuts, or chocolate chips make delicious add-ins. Can I bake in muffin tins?
Yes—divide rolls into muffin cups and bake about 18–20 minutes. How do I get a crisp top?
Broil for 1–2 minutes right after baking (watch super carefully). Can I skip the sugar?
You can reduce or omit sugar—the rolls are naturally sweet. Is it kid-friendly?
Yes—easy to eat, customizable, and fun to serve! Can I make mini‑servings?
Serve in small ramekins or mini loaf pans for personal portions. 🏁 Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Bake is a holiday breakfast superstar! It’s easy to assemble ahead, customizable, and delivers the rich flavor and cozy feel of a classic brunch—no daily effort required. Warm, soft, and topped with your favorites, this casserole turns breakfast into an event—without breaking a sweat. 🥥🎉
Pineapple Twist: Add drained crushed pineapple to the custard or as a topping Savory Version: Use ham and cheese between rolls instead of sweet custard Chocolate Oreo Crumble: Press Oreos into the top before baking Berry Bliss: Swirl in raspberry or blueberry jam after baking Gluten‑Free: Use GF Hawaiian‑style rolls or sliced sweet GF bread 🧊 Storage & Make‑Ahead Tips
Make Ahead: Prep the night before; bake fresh in the morning Refrigerate: Store baked leftovers covered up to 4 days Reheat: Microwave individual portions (~20 seconds) or bake at 325°F (5–10 minutes) until warm Freeze: Freeze slices in a single layer, then wrap and store up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before serving ❓ 10 FAQs
Why use Hawaiian rolls?
Their sweetness and soft texture make every bite buttery and tender—no sugary syrup needed. Can I use regular bread?
Yes—brioche, challah, or Texas toast are great alternatives. Do I need to soak overnight?
Not required, but an overnight soak gives deeper flavor and custard penetration. Can it be dairy-free?
Use plant-based milk, cream, and butter substitutes. Can I add fillings?
Absolutely—strawberries, nuts, or chocolate chips make delicious add-ins. Can I bake in muffin tins?
Yes—divide rolls into muffin cups and bake about 18–20 minutes. How do I get a crisp top?
Broil for 1–2 minutes right after baking (watch super carefully). Can I skip the sugar?
You can reduce or omit sugar—the rolls are naturally sweet. Is it kid-friendly?
Yes—easy to eat, customizable, and fun to serve! Can I make mini‑servings?
Serve in small ramekins or mini loaf pans for personal portions. 🏁 Conclusion
Hawaiian Roll French Toast Bake is a holiday breakfast superstar! It’s easy to assemble ahead, customizable, and delivers the rich flavor and cozy feel of a classic brunch—no daily effort required. Warm, soft, and topped with your favorites, this casserole turns breakfast into an event—without breaking a sweat. 🥥🎉