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
Scale
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.
