Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole – The Sweetest Morning Surprise

If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleasing breakfast recipe, look no further than Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole. This delightfully sweet and fluffy casserole combines the tropical richness of King’s Hawaiian rolls with a creamy custard and bursts of blueberry goodness. Whether you’re feeding a holiday crowd, hosting brunch, or prepping a simple weekend treat, this no-fuss, no-overnight-wait casserole is your new go-to.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups—it’s a hit with fruit lovers!

Why Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole Is the Perfect Morning Treat

The irresistible charm of King’s Hawaiian bread

The soft, sweet texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls makes them an ideal base for French toast casseroles. Unlike traditional bread, these rolls soak up the custard without getting soggy, holding their shape while baking into a golden, pillowy layer.

Why this dish is a favorite at brunch tables

French toast casseroles are loved for their simplicity, but using Hawaiian rolls takes the flavor up a notch. The natural sweetness eliminates the need for heavy syrups, though you can still drizzle maple syrup for extra indulgence. Plus, the bright blueberry accents offer a fruity burst in every bite.

Quick prep, big flavor: no overnight wait needed

Most baked French toast recipes require overnight soaking. Not this one. With a quick 15-minute prep, it’s ready to bake right away. That makes it perfect for impromptu brunches or lazy Sunday mornings.

Ingredients and Substitutions for the Best French Toast Bake

Classic ingredients you’ll need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this easy breakfast:

• 1 package (12 rolls) of King’s Hawaiian rolls
• 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 8 large eggs
• 1⅓ cups half and half (or substitute below)
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar & maple syrup for serving

Flexible swaps based on your pantry

Out of half and half? Mix 1 cup whole milk + ⅓ cup heavy cream. No blueberries? Try raspberries, blackberries, or a mix. Even chocolate chips make a decadent swap. Vanilla extract can be replaced with almond extract for a nutty twist.

Fresh vs. frozen blueberries – does it matter?

Frozen blueberries work well but may release more juice, slightly changing the texture. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding—they’ll bake just fine and prevent excess sogginess.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Bake Every Time

Cutting and layering the rolls for ideal texture

Cut each roll into 1-inch cubes. Layer half in a greased baking dish (11×7 or similar), sprinkle with half the blueberries, then repeat. This double layer ensures balanced flavor and texture throughout the bake.

Mixing the custard base like a pro

Whisk together the eggs, sugar, half and half, and vanilla extract until well combined. Pour evenly over the bread, letting it soak slightly. Use a spoon to gently press down any dry pieces to absorb the custard without flattening the bread.

Smart baking tips to avoid overbrowning

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20–30 minutes until golden and slightly jiggly in the center. The foil helps avoid overbrowning while allowing the inside to set.

Serving and presentation tips to impress

Dust with powdered sugar right before serving. Add a few fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve warm with maple syrup, or make it dessert-worthy with caramel drizzle.

Check out our cozy Easy French Toast Casserole for more seasonal flavors!

Flavor Variations and Creative Add-Ins

Going beyond blueberries – berries, chocolate, and more

While blueberries are classic, try switching things up:

• Mixed berries for extra color
• Dark chocolate chips for a sweet twist
• Sliced bananas paired with nuts

Making it decadent with caramel or cream cheese

Want to impress guests? Add cream cheese chunks between layers or drizzle caramel sauce before baking. You’ll get a creamy, gooey center that’s pure comfort food.

Turning it into a dessert with toppings and sauces

With a scoop of vanilla ice cream and chocolate syrup, this casserole transforms into an indulgent dessert. Add mint sprigs and powdered sugar for a gourmet look.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips for Busy Mornings

Can you refrigerate it overnight? Yes—and here’s how

One of the best things about this recipe is flexibility. If you prefer prepping the night before, simply assemble everything, cover tightly with foil, and store in the fridge. When baking from cold, allow an additional 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

Reheating leftovers without drying out

Leftover casserole? No problem. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 10–12 minutes, covered with foil to preserve moisture.

Freezing tips and thawing safely

Want to freeze it? Wrap the baked and cooled casserole in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Avoid freezing unbaked—it can lead to soggy results.

Nutritional Info and Healthier Alternatives

Calorie and macro breakdown

A single serving (about 1/8 of the casserole) contains roughly:

• Calories: 312
• Protein: 12g
• Carbs: 43g
• Fat: 11g
• Sugar: 25g
  This makes it a satisfying yet indulgent dish—perfect for special mornings.

Lighten it up with healthy swaps

If you’re watching calories or sugar intake, consider these options:

• Use low-fat milk instead of half and half
• Swap white sugar for a sugar substitute like monk fruit
• Use egg whites or egg substitute for fewer calories
• Add more berries to boost fiber

Allergen considerations: gluten, dairy, and eggs

To make it gluten-free, sub with gluten-free sweet rolls. For dairy-free, use almond milk with a splash of coconut cream. Egg-free options include using a flaxseed meal and water blend, though texture may slightly change.

FAQ About Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole

Conclusion – Make This Hawaiian Delight Part of Your Brunch Ritual

Whether you’re planning for a weekend treat or holiday brunch, Hawaiian Roll French Toast Casserole brings warmth, flavor, and ease to your kitchen. Its adaptability, make-ahead convenience, and show-stopping presentation make it a must-have in every breakfast lover’s rotation.

Discover great ideas like our Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole—another crowd-pleaser packed with flavor!

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