Pin When you want something warm and sweet for brunch or an afternoon treat these Hawaiian cinnamon rolls hit the spot They take the iconic King’s Hawaiian rolls and transform them into a creamy cinnamon swirled dessert that’s much easier than classic cinnamon rolls but just as irresistible
I first made these when I needed an easy brunch idea for a group and my neighbor said they were the best cinnamon rolls she ever had The aroma alone brings everyone into the kitchen
Ingredients
- Kings Hawaiian original sweet rolls: choosing this brand adds that signature pillow softness and a hint of tropical sweetness for best results use very fresh rolls that are not dried out
- Salted butter melted: this adds flavor and richness melting helps the butter soak into the rolls for extra moistness always go for top quality butter for best taste
- Brown sugar: brings deep caramel notes and creates the cinnamon roll swirl choose a soft and slightly moist brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon: gives warmth and spice to the rolls fresh ground cinnamon will make a noticeable difference in flavor
- Softened cream cheese: this makes the filling lush and creamy let it fully soften to avoid lumps
- Granulated sugar: balances the tanginess of the cream cheese and brings a smooth sweetness
- Egg: helps to set the filling so it bakes up custardy use a large fresh egg for best structure
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Get your oven ready at three hundred seventy five degrees and grease your nine by thirteen baking dish so nothing sticks later
- Hollow the Rolls:
- Arrange the Hawaiian rolls in your dish Carefully cut a square on top of each roll and pull out some bread from the center Do not go too deep or you risk breaking the base You want to leave a neat cavity that holds the filling
- Make the Cinnamon Butter:
- In a small bowl mix melted butter brown sugar and cinnamon Stir until all sugar dissolves Brush this cinnamon mixture on top of each roll and inside each hollowed area This step soaks the rolls with flavor and ensures caramelized tops
- Mix Cream Cheese Filling:
- With a hand mixer beat cream cheese until it is smooth Next add granulated sugar and egg until creamy and lump free This is your decadent filling Do not overmix or it could get runny
- Fill the Rolls:
- Spoon generous amounts of cream cheese filling into each roll Use a small spoon or piping bag to make sure you fill all the way in but do not overflow
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in your preheated oven Bake about fifteen minutes until the tops are golden and the filling looks puffed and is just set Remove and let cool slightly before serving This is the key step for gooey but stable rolls
Pin High in flavor and kid approved Brown sugar is truly the star It gives an amazing caramel edge to each bite and my family always fights for the extra gooey corner pieces Baking these with kids is a memory of little hands scooping and filling each roll
Storage Tips
Seal any leftovers in an airtight container and keep refrigerated They stay soft for up to three days Warm in the microwave ten seconds for that just baked texture again
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in vegan butter or dairy free cream cheese for an allergy friendly batch If you want less sugar try a reduced sweetener in the filling Soft brioche rolls can work in a pinch if you cannot find Hawaiian rolls
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect straight from the oven alongside coffee or fresh fruit For a party dust with a little powdered sugar or drizzle with extra melted butter to make them extra decadent
Cultural History
King’s Hawaiian rolls were first introduced in Hawaii with inspiration from Portuguese sweet bread The rolls became beloved for their gentle sweetness making them perfect for breakfast or sweet snacks like these cinnamon creations
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a spoonful of raspberry jam to each filling for a spring twist Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice during fall Top with crushed pineapple for a summer brunch treat
Success Stories
A friend made these for a book club and they disappeared in minutes she said everyone was floored by how easy they were to make Another time my nephew helped me fill each roll and ended up eating half the bowl of filling before we even baked them
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze assemble the filled rolls before baking Wrap tightly and freeze for up to one month Bake directly from frozen adding three to five minutes to the oven time This is a great way to always have a special breakfast on hand
Pin Serve these warm and watch them vanish quickly The creamy filling and cinnamon are out of this world
Recipe Questions
- → How do you keep the rolls from getting soggy inside?
Ensure the rolls are not overfilled and bake until the filling is set. Slight cooling before serving helps stabilize the texture.
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Soft dinner rolls or brioche are good alternatives, but King's Hawaiian rolls add unique sweetness and texture.
- → Is it necessary to remove some bread when filling?
Yes, removing a small portion creates space for more filling and prevents overflow during baking.
- → Can the cream cheese filling be flavored?
Yes, you can add citrus zest, vanilla extract, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor twists.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm gently before serving to restore softness.