Heavenly Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Crave Every Morning

Aromatic cinnamon rolls have a special place in Hawaiian culinary traditions, blending tropical warmth with sweet, comforting flavors.

The islands’ unique baking culture transforms classic pastry recipes into delightful, soft experiences that tantalize taste buds.

Hawaiian bakers infuse local ingredients and cultural influences into these beloved breakfast treats, creating a distinctive twist on traditional rolls.

Soft, pillowy dough becomes a canvas for rich cinnamon swirls and subtle tropical nuances that reflect the region’s vibrant food heritage.

Ingredients like macadamia nuts, coconut, and local honey often elevate these rolls from simple pastries to extraordinary culinary expressions.

The magic of Hawaiian cinnamon rolls lies in their ability to capture the essence of island hospitality and delicious innovation.

What’s Tasty About Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Effortless Indulgence: Transforms ordinary Hawaiian rolls into a decadent dessert with minimal cooking skills required.
• Quick Breakfast Delight: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous sweet cravings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combines familiar flavors of cinnamon, cream cheese, and French toast-style cooking that appeals to all ages.
• Versatile Entertaining Option: Easily adaptable for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or weekend family breakfasts with minimal preparation stress.

Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients Guide

Main Ingredients:

Hawaiian Rolls: Soft, sweet bread rolls perfect for creating a rich, indulgent dessert. Look for fresh, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls for the best texture.

Cream Cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy base that adds richness to the rolls. Choose full-fat cream cheese for maximum flavor.

Butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden-brown exterior. Use unsalted butter for better control of the recipe’s saltiness.

Filling and Coating Ingredients:

Cinnamon, Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Create a sweet, warmly spiced flavor profile. Use fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon for the best taste.

Half and Half: Creates a rich custard base for dipping. Whole milk can be substituted if needed.

Eggs: Bind the custard and add richness to the dipping mixture. Use fresh, large eggs at room temperature.

Flavor Enhancers:

Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and aromatic sweetness to the custard. Pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor.

How To Bake Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Flavor Boosters

• Melted butter
• Ground cinnamon
• Brown sugar

Stir until a rich, smooth paste forms.

• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon

Step 2: Build Roll Foundation

Slice Hawaiian rolls precisely in half.

Spread a generous layer of cream cheese on both interior sides.

Drizzle the cinnamon butter mixture over cream cheese.

Carefully reassemble the rolls.

Chill in refrigerator for 20 minutes to set flavors.

Step 3: Create Luxurious Custard Bath

• Half and half
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon

Blend until smooth and uniform.

Step 4: Transform Rolls

Remove chilled rolls from refrigerator.

Gently submerge each roll in custard mixture for 15-30 seconds.

Ensure complete coating without saturating.

Step 5: Golden Transformation

Heat large sauté pan over medium-low temperature.

Add butter to pan surface.

Carefully place rolls in pan.

Cook until golden brown on multiple sides.

Rotate rolls for even caramelization.

Wipe pan between batches to prevent burning.

Step 6: Final Flavor Explosion

Roll warm rolls in cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Ensure complete and even coating.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Quick Tips For Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Butter Brilliance: Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness and a more consistent flavor profile in the recipe.
• Cream Cheese Hack: Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier spreading and smoother texture on the rolls.
• Custard Coating Trick: Dip rolls quickly to prevent soaking, ensuring they remain structurally intact during cooking.
• Pan-Frying Perfection: Maintain medium-low heat to achieve golden-brown exterior without burning the sugar coating.
• Temperature Timing: Serve rolls warm for the most delightful taste and optimal gooey texture that melts in your mouth.

How To Save And Reheat Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Refrigerate: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Reheat Oven: Warm rolls at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. This method restores their soft texture and crispy edges.
• Reheat Skillet: Quickly pan-fry rolls over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, adding a small butter pat to refresh crispiness and maintain moisture.
• Freeze Option: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Freeze up to 2 weeks. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Best Pairings For Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Tropical Rum Punch Pairing: Blend fresh pineapple juice, coconut rum, and a splash of grenadine for a sweet Hawaiian-inspired cocktail that complements the rolls' tropical bread base.
• Creamy Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Companion: Scoop rich vanilla bean ice cream alongside the warm cinnamon rolls to balance the crispy exterior and create a luxurious dessert experience.
• Caramel Macchiato Drizzle: Add a light caramel macchiato on the side, offering a coffee-forward counterpoint that enhances the cinnamon's warm spiciness and provides a delightful contrast to the sweet rolls.
• Toasted Macadamia Nut Sprinkle: Crush toasted macadamia nuts and sprinkle over the rolls or as a garnish, introducing a crunchy texture and authentic Hawaiian flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.

Fun Versions Of Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Gluten-Free Hawaiian Roll Hack: Swap traditional Hawaiian rolls with gluten-free bread or specialized gluten-free rolls, ensuring the same soft texture and sweet flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace cream cheese with coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Use plant-based butter and dairy-free half and half for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Low-Sugar Version: Substitute brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Use a sugar-free cinnamon coating made with erythritol and ground cinnamon for reduced sugar content.
• Vegan Hawaiian Roll Remix: Use plant-based eggs like flax eggs, coconut cream instead of dairy, and vegan butter. Select vegan Hawaiian-style rolls to create a completely plant-based breakfast treat.

Answers About Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Are Hawaiian rolls different from regular bread rolls?

Hawaiian rolls are softer, slightly sweeter, and have a more tender texture compared to traditional bread rolls. They’re made with ingredients like pineapple juice, giving them a unique flavor and pillowy consistency.

• Can I use a different type of roll if Hawaiian rolls aren't available?

Yes, you can substitute with brioche or soft dinner rolls. However, the distinctive sweetness and texture of Hawaiian rolls contribute significantly to the recipe’s overall taste and experience.

• Why do I need to chill the rolls before dipping in custard?

Chilling helps the rolls firm up, preventing them from falling apart during the custard dip and cooking process. It also allows the cream cheese and cinnamon filling to set, making handling easier.

• What's the purpose of pan-frying the rolls instead of baking?

Pan-frying creates a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside soft and custardy. It also allows for better control of the cooking process and helps develop a rich, caramelized flavor.

Best Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Homemade Hawaiian cinnamon rolls blend tropical sweetness with warm spices, creating a delightful breakfast sensation. Pillowy dough infused with pineapple juice delivers comfort and island charm that delights breakfast lovers and baking enthusiasts alike.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 package Kings Hawaiian Rolls
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened

Dairy and Liquid Ingredients:

• ⅔ cup (158 milliliters) half and half
• 4 tablespoons (60 grams) butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Spices and Sweeteners:

• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup (70 grams) brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Craft a luscious cinnamon-butter blend by whisking melted butter with brown sugar and ground cinnamon until it transforms into a rich, glossy paste. Simultaneously, prepare a separate cinnamon-granulated sugar mixture for the final coating.
2. Carefully slice Hawaiian rolls horizontally, creating a delicate sandwich-like structure. Generously spread softened cream cheese across both interior surfaces, then lavishly drizzle the prepared cinnamon filling over the cream cheese. Reunite the roll halves and refrigerate for a precise 20-minute cooling period.
3. Create a luxurious custard bath by vigorously whisking half and half with eggs, vanilla extract, and an additional dash of cinnamon until the mixture achieves a smooth, uniform consistency. Retrieve the chilled rolls and delicately submerge each one into the custard, ensuring thorough but gentle coating without oversaturating.
4. Activate a large sauté pan over medium-low temperature. Introduce a butter cube to establish a non-stick foundation. Carefully pan-fry the custard-drenched rolls in controlled batches, rotating to achieve a golden-brown exterior on multiple sides. Meticulously clean the pan between batches to prevent sugar caramelization and burnt residue.
5. Once the rolls emerge with a perfect golden hue, immediately enrobe them in the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring complete and even coverage. Serve these decadent treats while they retain their optimal warmth and irresistible texture.

Notes

• Customize the cream cheese spread by mixing in different extracts like almond or coconut for a tropical twist.
• Prevent rolls from falling apart during dipping by ensuring cream cheese is evenly spread and rolls are chilled.
• Use stale Hawaiian rolls for better custard absorption and a more stable texture during cooking.
• Select unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness and allow the cinnamon flavors to shine through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg