Hawaiian rolls, sometimes called dinner rolls or sweet rolls, are a type of yeast-leavened bread that is popular across the United States. They have a slightly sweet taste and soft, pillowy texture that makes them perfect for sandwiches, burgers, and as a side to meals. While Hawaiian rolls are typically baked, many people wonder if they can also be toasted in the oven for a different flavor and texture.
Toasting bread in the oven is a simple process that involves exposing the cut sides of the bread to dry heat, which causes the starch on the surface to harden and take on a crispy texture. Since Hawaiian rolls have a soft interior and slightly crusty exterior even when just baked normally, toasting them takes this contrast of textures to the next level.
So can you toast Hawaiian rolls in the oven? The short answer is yes, Hawaiian rolls can absolutely be toasted in the oven with delicious results.
Benefits of Toasting Hawaiian Rolls
There are a few reasons why someone may want to toast Hawaiian rolls in the oven rather than just baking them plain:
- It makes the exterior crunchy and crispy while the interior stays soft and fluffy.
- Toasting enhances the sweet flavor of the rolls.
- It allows you to reheat leftover rolls to crispy perfection.
- Toasted Hawaiian rolls have great texture for sandwiches or burgers.
- It’s very easy to do with minimal extra effort.
The toasted exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, cloud-like interior of Hawaiian rolls. The crunchy crust almost takes on a caramelized flavor from the oven’s dry heat. This makes the rolls even more delicious for dunking in soups or filling with savory ingredients.
Choosing the Right Hawaiian Rolls
While most types of Hawaiian rolls and dinner rolls can be toasted with good results, some varieties are better suited for toasting than others:
- Look for rolls connected in a pan shape rather than as individual buns, since joined rolls will toast more evenly.
- Avoid extremely soft, fat rolls, which may fall apart when toasted.
- Bakery-style Hawaiian rolls with a firmer texture tend to hold their shape better during toasting.
- Get rolls with a lightly glazed, slightly crusty exterior out of the package for the best contrast after toasting.
King’s Hawaiian original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are a great option, as they have the perfect balance of softness and structure. But any high-quality Hawaiian roll made with a blend of white and wheat flour will provide delicious toasted results.
How to Toast Hawaiian Rolls in the Oven
Toasting Hawaiian rolls in the oven is very simple to do. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients
- 1 package Hawaiian rolls connected in a pan shape
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
- Separate the connected Hawaiian rolls and slice each one horizontally like a hamburger bun. Place them cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 5-8 minutes until the surface of the rolls appear toasted brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- For a shinier, more glazed look, brush the tops of the toasted rolls lightly with melted butter. Return to the oven for 1 minute to set the butter.
- Remove pan from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
The total time needed is only about 10 minutes, so Hawaiian roll toasting is a quick and easy process. The rolls come out crispy on the outside while still fluffy and pillowy on the inside.
Toasting Tips
- For best results, use a metal baking sheet rather than glass or ceramic.
- Watch the rolls closely as they can go from golden brown to burnt quickly.
- Flip the rolls over halfway during baking for even crisping on both sides.
- Add desired seasonings or spices to the melted butter before brushing on rolls.
- Let the toasted rolls cool slightly before filling or eating to avoid a burnt mouth.
Adjust the baking time up or down slightly to reach your perfect level of Hawaiian roll toasting. Enjoy the contrast of the crispy browned outside and soft interior.
Serving Toasted Hawaiian Rolls
The beauty of toasted Hawaiian rolls is their versatility. Here are some delicious ways to serve and enjoy Hawaiian rolls after toasting:
Sandwiches
The crispy crust of toasted Hawaiian rolls makes them perfect for sandwiches. Fill them with ingredients like deli meats, cheese, vegetables and condiments for an upgraded sandwich experience.
Burgers
Toasting enhances Hawaiian rolls’ ability to hold up to juicy burgers and stacks of fillings. The sturdier texture prevents them from getting soggy.
Breakfast
Split a toasted Hawaiian roll and fill it with bacon, eggs and cheese for a gourmet breakfast sandwich.
Bruschetta
Top toasted rolls with tomato, basil, olive oil and cheeses for a creative bruschetta twist.
Dessert French Toast
For a sweet treat, dip the toasted rolls in a vanilla-cinnamon egg batter and cook like French toast. Top with powdered sugar or maple syrup.
Bread Bowls
Turn toasted Hawaiian rolls into mini bread bowls by hollowing out the soft interior. Fill with soup or chili for an edible vessel.
Appetizers
Slice toasted Hawaiian rolls into pieces and serve them topped with dips, cheeses, or spreads as tasty appetizers.
Storing Toasted Hawaiian Rolls
Short Term Storage
Toasted Hawaiian rolls taste best straight out of the oven. However, you can store toasted rolls at room temperature loosely covered with plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 hours. The exterior will soften slightly.
Long Term Storage
For longer storage, place toasted rolls in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and crisp up in a 300°F oven for a few minutes before serving.
It is not recommended to refrigerate toasted Hawaiian rolls, as this causes them to lose their crispness and become soggy. Enjoy leftovers within a day for optimal taste and texture.
Troubleshooting Toasted Hawaiian Rolls
Problem: Rolls fall apart when slicing or toasting
– Choose Hawaiian rolls with a firmer, bread-like texture rather than super soft and fluffy. Also ensure the rolls are fresh, not stale.
Problem: Rolls get burnt spots while toasting
– Use a lower oven temperature like 350°F and watch rolls closely as they toast. Rotate pan if browning unevenly.
Problem: Interior of rolls stay soft and doughy
– Toast rolls for longer, up to 10 minutes, until the center has set and is no longer doughy. Test a roll by cutting it open.
Problem: Exterior is rock hard while interior is raw
– Reduce oven temperature to 325°F and increase bake time to slowly toast rolls. Also slice rolls thinner.
Problem: Rolls lose their crispness quickly after toasting
– Be sure to let rolls cool slightly before filling and serve immediately for best texture. Only store at room temperature up to 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you toast Hawaiian rolls that aren’t connected?
Yes, you can toast individual Hawaiian rolls or buns. They may need up to 1-2 minutes extra baking time compared to connected rolls. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
Do you have to slice Hawaiian rolls before toasting?
It is highly recommended to slice rolls horizontally before toasting. This exposes the soft interior crumbs to the dry heat. Not slicing may result in rolls that are burnt outside but raw inside.
What oven temperature should be used to toast Hawaiian rolls?
Any standard baking temperature between 325°F to 400°F will work. 350°F is ideal for even browning and thorough toasting. Adjust temperature as needed based on your oven.
How long does it take to toast Hawaiian rolls in the oven?
Most Hawaiian rolls need 5-10 minutes in the oven to reach desired toasted level. Larger or thicker rolls may need up to 12 minutes. Check frequently to avoid burning.
Can you toast then freeze Hawaiian rolls?
Yes, Hawaiian rolls toast very well from frozen. First thaw the rolls fully to room temperature, then toast in oven as usual. Increase time by 1-2 minutes for best results.
Toasting Hawaiian Rolls in Other Appliances
While the oven is the preferred method, you can also toast Hawaiian rolls using some other household appliances:
Toaster Oven
A toaster oven works great for toasting smaller batches of rolls. Use the bake setting at 325°F. Watch closely as cook time is faster.
Skillet
For a single serving, you can toast Hawaiian rolls in a skillet on the stovetop. Cook sliced rolls over medium-low heat in butter for 2-3 minutes per side.
Grill
On an outdoor grill, place rolls sliced-side down and toast for 1-2 minutes until grill marks appear. Butter the tops after removing from grill.
Air Fryer
Air fry Hawaiian rolls at 350°F for 4-8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush rolls with butter after cooking for extra flavor.
| Appliance | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 350°F | 5-10 minutes |
| Toaster Oven | 325°F | 3-5 minutes |
| Skillet | Medium-low | 2-3 minutes per side |
| Grill | Medium | 1-2 minutes per side |
| Air Fryer | 350°F | 4-8 minutes, flipping halfway |
Recipes Using Toasted Hawaiian Rolls
Toasted Hawaiian rolls can be used in all kinds of delicious recipes. Here are just a few ideas:
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pile tender pulled pork on toasted Hawaiian rolls and add your favorite barbecue sauce along with coleslaw.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Shredded chicken is tossed in buffalo sauce then served on toasted Hawaiian rolls with blue cheese crumbles.
Caprese Roll Ups
Bruschetta-style roll ups with fresh mozzarella, tomato, basil and balsamic on toasted Hawaiian bread.
Crab Cake Sandwiches
For an upscale sandwich, serve crab cakes on toasted Hawaiian rolls with lettuce, tomato and tartar sauce.
French Onion Soup Rolls
Scoop out toasted rolls and fill with hot French onion soup for a creative, edible bowl.
Conclusion
Hawaiian rolls get an upgrade when toasted in the oven, taking on a crispy exterior that perfectly balances the soft, fluffy interior. It only takes 10 minutes to transform Hawaiian rolls from plain to perfect using standard oven toasting. Their lightly sweet flavor gets intensified as the starch crystallizes on the bun’s surface, creating delicious contrast. Toasted Hawaiian rolls are great as sandwiches, burgers, bread bowls, bruschetta, or for dunking in soup. Store leftovers properly to retain crispiness. Now that you know exactly how to toast Hawaiian rolls in the oven, enjoy this easy way to enhance a favorite bakery bread.