1. Can I make Hawaiian roll French toast as a casserole?

Absolutely! A Hawaiian roll French toast casserole is one of the easiest and most crowd-pleasing variations. Simply cut or tear the rolls into chunks, arrange them in a buttered dish, pour your egg custard over the top, and let it soak for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra richness). Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until puffed and golden. You can even add berries, cream cheese, or cinnamon sugar layers for added texture and flavor.

2. What's the TikTok version of Hawaiian rolls French toast?

The TikTok take often features whole Hawaiian rolls dunked in cinnamon custard and griddled or baked with dramatic pulls and layers. Some versions go viral by stuffing them with cream cheese, jam, or even peanut butter and then air frying or skillet-toasting them. It's all about that pillowy texture and gooey center, often finished with powdered sugar and a drizzle of syrup or chocolate.

3. Can I use other sweet bread for this French toast recipe?

Definitely. While Hawaiian rolls offer a unique fluffy-sweet profile, other options like brioche, challah, or even leftover cinnamon buns can work beautifully. Just be sure the bread isn’t too fresh—it needs a little firmness to soak up the custard without falling apart. That’s why this recipe is great for giving new life to almost-stale bread.

4. What can I do with leftover rolls besides French toast?

Beyond French toast, leftover Hawaiian rolls can be used in sweet bread puddings, breakfast sliders, and even mini baked sandwiches. If you're feeling creative, try layering them with jam and whipped cream for a trifle-style dessert or cube and toast them into sweet croutons for a yogurt parfait. They're also the perfect base for unique desserts like Caramel Cheesecake Cookies inspired snacks.

Sweet Hawaiian Roll French Toast: A Cozy, Golden-Baked Morning Treat

Name: Sweet Hawaiian Roll French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pack (12-count) Hawaiian rolls; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp sugar (optional); Butter for greasing skillet or baking dish; Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving

Description

This Sweet Hawaiian Roll French Toast is buttery, fluffy, and golden-crisp—perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Skillet-seared or baked casserole style, it’s a cozy way to use up leftover rolls.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pack (12-count) Hawaiian rolls

4 large eggs

1/2 cup whole milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tbsp sugar (optional)

Butter for greasing skillet or baking dish

Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving

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Instructions

1. Slice or tear Hawaiian rolls in half.

2. Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar in a shallow bowl.

3. Dip rolls in the custard mixture, letting them soak for 10–15 seconds per side.

4. For skillet version: cook rolls in butter over medium heat until golden on both sides.

5. For baked version: arrange soaked rolls in a greased baking dish, pour extra custard over, and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes.

6. Top with powdered sugar, syrup, or fresh fruit before serving.

Notes

Stale rolls work best for soaking.

Let custard mixture rest 5 minutes for best flavor.

To make ahead: assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.

Freeze leftovers in an airtight bag for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Skillet or Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 pieces
Calories: 320
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 120mg