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Ever find yourself staring at a bag of Hawaiian rolls and thinking, “Is it breakfast? Is it dessert? Is it magic?” Well, friend—it’s all of the above. Meet your new favorite way to kickstart the day: Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole.
This dish is warm, fluffy, a little sweet, and packed with tropical vibes—think coconut syrup, sun-kissed berries, and all the comfort of a weekend brunch at home. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want to meal prep something dreamy, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast is about to steal the breakfast show.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Let’s be real: mornings can be chaos. Kids looking for socks, dogs barking at squirrels, and coffee that still hasn’t kicked in. You need a breakfast that’s:
- Quick to prep (yes, even before your second cup of coffee)
- Satisfyingly sweet but not cloying
- Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
This recipe checks all those boxes and then some. The soft, sweet KING’S HAWAIIAN rolls soak up the vanilla-cinnamon custard like they were born for it. Once baked, they’re golden on the outside, gooey on the inside, and ready for every drizzle of maple or coconut syrup your heart desires.
And don’t worry—if your knife skills aren’t exactly “chef-y,” we won’t tell. This casserole is as forgiving as grandma on a Sunday.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll be working with:
- 1 package of KING’S HAWAIIAN Original Sweet Rolls
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for frying or greasing the pan)
- Coconut syrup or maple syrup (go wild)
- Optional: strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for that juicy punch
Pro Tip: Want to amp it up? Toss in a handful of white chocolate chips or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. You didn’t hear it from me, though.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole
Okay, apron on? Let’s get into it:
1. Prep the Rolls
Gently pull apart the Hawaiian rolls. No need to slice them unless you want smaller bites (great for kiddos or portion control). Place them snugly in a greased casserole dish. It should feel like tucking in sleepy little buns for a nap.
2. Whisk Up the Custard
In a medium bowl, beat the eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon until everything is happy and blended. Pour this mixture evenly over the rolls, making sure each one gets its moment in the custard spotlight.
3. Let It Soak
If you have time, let the rolls soak for about 10–15 minutes to absorb the mixture. Even better—prep this the night before and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Morning-you will thank past-you.
4. Bake It
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Dot the top with butter for extra crispiness, then bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
5. Top and Serve
Let it cool for just a few minutes (if you can wait), then drizzle with coconut syrup or maple syrup. Top with fresh berries and maybe a dusting of powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy.
A Little Backstory: Why This Recipe Stuck
This dish became my go-to on Sunday mornings after a test batch I made “just to try” got devoured before I could even take a photo. It reminded me of family breakfasts growing up—lazy, cozy, and loud with laughter. Now, it’s part of my regular rotation, and I love how versatile it is. Got leftovers? It reheats like a dream. Hosting guests? Boom, you just became a brunch legend.
Tips to Make Your French Toast Casserole Next-Level
- Make it a party: Add a splash of orange liqueur or coconut rum to the custard for a grown-up twist.
- Feeding a crowd? Double the batch and use a 9×13 pan.
- Want it crispier? Broil the casserole for the last 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t go full torch-mode.
FAQs About Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Can I substitute regular bread for Hawaiian rolls?
You can, but trust me—those sweet, pillowy rolls bring the magic. Regular bread might turn out drier or less flavorful.
Is this French toast casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Bake it, cool it, then wrap it up and freeze. Reheat covered in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
What if I don’t have coconut syrup?
No stress—maple syrup is a classic for a reason. Or try honey, agave, or even a berry compote.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Let it soak overnight in the fridge, then pop it in the oven in the morning. It’s the breakfast MVP of meal prep.
Let’s Recap: Why You Need This Hawaiian Roll French Toast in Your Life
It’s simple. It’s sweet. It’s the kind of breakfast that brings everyone to the table with minimal effort on your part. With its golden, custard-soaked rolls and juicy berry topping, this Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe-casserole hybrid is your new secret weapon for stress-free mornings and brunch victories.
So, next time you pass by that pack of KING’S HAWAIIAN rolls at the grocery store—grab it. Your future self, and everyone at your table, will thank you.