If you are looking for an irresistibly soft, sweet, and gooey treat that will have everyone asking for seconds, this Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is your new go-to. Combining the pillowy fluffiness of classic Hawaiian sweet rolls with a rich, spiced cinnamon filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, these cinnamon rolls transform a simple snack into a celebration of delightful flavors and textures. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any time you crave a warm, comforting indulgence, this recipe uses accessible ingredients in a fresh way that promises a crowd-pleasing result every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in creating the soft texture and perfect balance between sweetness and spice in your cinnamon rolls. These simple components come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and a golden, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Cooking spray: Essential for greasing the pan to prevent sticking and help achieve a perfectly tender crust on the rolls.
- 12-count package Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls: The star of the show, offering fluffy, sweet bread that’s softer than traditional dough.
- Unsalted butter (9 tablespoons divided, softened to room temp): Butter adds rich creaminess; softened butter spreads easily without melting the bread.
- Light brown sugar (2/3 cup, soft and gently packed): Provides caramel notes and moisture to the cinnamon filling.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Brings the warm, spicy aroma and signature flavor that is essential to any cinnamon roll.
- Salt (1/8 teaspoon, plus another 1/8 teaspoon for glaze): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances richness.
- Cream cheese (2 ounces, softened): Creates a tangy, smooth frosting that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a luscious topping.
- Milk (2 tablespoons, preferably whole): Adds creaminess and the right consistency to the glaze.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a hint of warmth to the frosting.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray for easy release. Then, spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on the base of the pan—this not only helps prevent sticking but adds a subtle buttery layer that makes the bottom of your rolls extra special. Preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s ready once you have your rolls assembled.
Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine 8 tablespoons of softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes thick, smooth, and wonderfully fragrant. This mixture is the sweet, spiced heart of your cinnamon rolls and will bring that classic gooey texture to every bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Take the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls and slice it horizontally, but keep the individual rolls connected so they pull apart easily after baking. Place the bottom half in the prepared pan and spread just under half of the butter mixture evenly over it. Then, carefully place the top half over the bottom and spread the remaining butter mixture over the tops and sides of the rolls, covering everything except the pan’s base.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the rolls for 11 to 13 minutes or until the tops turn a light golden brown. While the rolls are baking, it’s the perfect moment to prepare the irresistible cream cheese glaze that will complete this dish.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until creamy and smooth. Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, milk, and salt, then continue to beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly spreadable—a dreamy finish to complement the warm cinnamon rolls.
Step 6: Frost the Rolls
Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool for just a minute so the glaze doesn’t melt away instantly. Spoon the cream cheese glaze over the rolls, making sure it fills every nook and cranny. If you want extra decadence, apply a second layer of frosting after the rolls cool a bit more. Then, grab a roll and enjoy that heavenly fusion of flavors!
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe even further, sprinkle a few chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top after glazing for a subtle crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft rolls. You can also add a dusting of cinnamon powder or a drizzle of extra melted butter for a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a mixed berry compote to add a fresh, tangy component to the sweetness. A creamy cup of coffee or a warm chai latte also make wonderful companions to balance the sugar and spice on your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these rolls in a bundt pan and drizzle the cream cheese glaze in spirals for eye-catching presentation. You can also cut them into individual squares and serve them as finger-food at brunches or potlucks, making it easy for guests to grab one without mess!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to retain their softness. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week, but make sure to warm them gently before serving to bring back their fresh-baked warmth.
Freezing
If you want to make these cinnamon rolls in advance, freeze them before baking. Wrap the assembled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or thawed cinnamon rolls by microwaving them in short bursts to keep them soft and gooey. Alternatively, warming them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes wrapped lightly in foil helps restore their just-baked texture without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
While you can substitute regular dinner rolls, the signature softness and sweetness of Hawaiian rolls really make this recipe special. Using them will ensure you get that unique fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor that’s key to the Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.
Do I have to slice the rolls horizontally?
Yes, slicing the rolls horizontally keeps them connected and allows the butter mixture to seep through both layers, creating gooey, sticky pockets of cinnamon goodness everywhere.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?
You can make a simple powdered sugar glaze with milk and vanilla if needed, but the cream cheese glaze is what provides that wonderful tang and richness that pairs so well with the cinnamon and sweet rolls.
Can I prepare the rolls the night before baking?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake them fresh the next day for a quick homemade breakfast or treat.
Why is the butter softened but not melted?
Softened butter spreads smoothly and helps the filling stay in place without making the rolls soggy, while melted butter would make the dough too wet and affect the texture adversely.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe truly brings a fresh, fun spin to an all-time classic. With its sweet, tender rolls and creamy cinnamon glaze, it’s a treat that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. Give it a try for your next breakfast or dessert—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy cinnamon rolls!
Print
Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls are a quick and easy twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, using sweet and fluffy Hawaiian dinner rolls topped with a rich cinnamon butter filling and a smooth cream cheese glaze. Perfect for a delicious breakfast or snack, these rolls bake to golden perfection in just under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Rolls
- Cooking spray
- 12-count package Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls
- 9 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided, softened to room temperature; do not melt!)
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar (soft, gently packed)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (preferably whole milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare pan and preheat oven: Grease a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray. Spread 1 tablespoon of softened butter evenly on the base of the pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy spreading.
- Make the cinnamon butter mixture: In a medium bowl, combine 8 tablespoons (1 stick) of softened butter, 2/3 cup light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Use a hand mixer to beat until the mixture is thick and smooth.
- Slice and assemble the rolls: Carefully slice the entire slab of 12 connected Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create a top and bottom half, keeping the rolls connected. Place the bottom half in the prepared pan. Spread just under half of the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the bottom rolls.
- Add the top layer and remaining butter mixture: Place the top half of the rolls back on and spread the remaining cinnamon butter mixture over the top and sides, making sure to cover all parts except the bottom layer.
- Bake the rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 11–13 minutes or until the rolls are lightly golden on top.
- Prepare the cream cheese glaze: While the rolls bake, beat together 2 ounces softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons softened butter with a hand or stand mixer until smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/8 teaspoon salt, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the rolls: Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let cool for about a minute. Spoon the cream cheese glaze generously over the rolls, making sure it fills all crevices. For extra indulgence, apply a second layer of frosting once the rolls cool a bit more.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy this quick, delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Notes
- Use softened butter (not melted) for the best spreading and texture.
- Keeping the rolls connected while slicing and assembling helps maintain their shape during baking.
- If you prefer a thinner glaze, adjust the milk quantity accordingly.
- Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently before serving to restore softness.
