Easy Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

These Hawaiian cinnamon rolls are my answer for when I need a decadent breakfast that comes together quickly and disappears even faster. Plush King's Hawaiian rolls become buttery and crisp on top while a creamy filling bakes inside. The cinnamon-butter glaze takes it over the top making this an easy crowd pleaser for any brunch or dessert table.

I first whipped these up for a holiday breakfast when I was short on time and the pan vanished in minutes. Now my sister asks for them every time she visits.

Ingredients

• King's Hawaiian original sweet rolls: this is the secret to the pillowy texture try to select the freshest package for maximum softness
• Salted butter: melted to soak in flavor and keep the rolls rich if possible pick a good quality butter for the best taste
• Brown sugar: brings molasses warmth and caramel notes dark brown adds even more depth
• Ground cinnamon: the heart of any cinnamon roll use fresh spices for true aroma
• Cream cheese: softened for easy mixing and creaminess use full-fat for the richest filling
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the filling without overpowering the cream cheese
• Egg: binds the filling and makes it set up fluffy cage free eggs usually have deeper color and flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with a little melted butter or a paper towel coated in oil to prevent sticking

Hollow the Rolls:

Place all the Hawaiian rolls snugly in the prepared dish Cut a square shape into the top of each roll using a small knife and gently pull out a chunk of bread from the center to create a well being careful not to scrape through the bottom

Make Cinnamon Butter:

Mix melted butter brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl Stir until it looks like a thick shiny paste

Brush the Rolls:

Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops and the hollowed insides of every roll with the cinnamon butter mixture getting into all the nooks

Whip the Filling:

In a mixing bowl beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until completely smooth Add in the granulated sugar and egg then mix again until no lumps remain

Fill the Rolls:

Spoon the cream cheese filling into the wells of each roll Distribute evenly so every roll gets a generous plug of creamy goodness

Bake the Rolls:

Slide the dish into a preheated three hundred seventy five degree oven Bake for around fifteen minutes Watch closely near the end The rolls should be golden brown on top and the filling just set

Cool and Serve:

Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving so the filling sets up Serve warm for ultimate gooeyness

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My favorite part about these rolls is the contrast between the sweet crusty top and the silky cream cheese center. Every time I bake them my son insists on licking the bowl and sneaking the first warm roll right out of the pan.

Storage Tips

Any leftovers keep best for up to two days in the fridge sealed in an airtight container This prevents them from drying out To reheat microwave each roll for fifteen seconds or warm in a low oven until just heated through

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find King's Hawaiian rolls use any soft dinner rolls with a little sweetness Use Neufchâtel cheese if you want a lighter filling Coconut sugar substitutes well for brown sugar and adds a tropical note

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls fresh from the oven with coffee or chai tea For extra flair dust with powdered sugar or add a handful of mixed berries on top right before baking They also make a fun dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

Cultural and Historical Context

Sweet rolls filled with spiced cream cheese bridge American comfort food with a nod to Hawaiian flavors King’s Hawaiian rolls originated in Hilo Hawaii and brought the joy of ultra soft sweet bread to the mainland This recipe keeps the ease and the spirit of sharing alive

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Common Questions

→ What type of bread is used for these cinnamon rolls?

King's Hawaiian original sweet rolls give these cinnamon rolls their soft, fluffy texture and a hint of sweetness.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the rolls and filling, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the filling?

Mascarpone or ricotta can be used as alternatives, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Are these cinnamon rolls vegetarian?

Yes, the rolls contain no meat or gelatin and are suitable for vegetarian diets.

→ Can I add toppings for extra flavor?

Absolutely. Dust with powdered sugar after baking or add fresh berries before baking for a fruity note.