There’s a delightful sense of wonder that comes with transforming something simple into a mouthwatering masterpiece. That’s exactly what you'll experience with these Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls. Not only are they a breeze to whip up, taking just 10 minutes of prep time, but they also promise to be a crowd-pleaser at any breakfast or brunch gathering. Imagine the sweet warmth of cinnamon mingling with the soft, fluffy goodness of Hawaiian rolls, all topped with a luscious cream cheese layer. These rolls encapsulate comfort food at its finest while offering a fun twist that makes them stand out. Ready to brighten your mornings and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this satisfying recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why are these cinnamon rolls irresistible?
Irresistible sweetness: The combination of Hawaiian rolls and rich cream cheese brings a delightful sweetness that’s hard to resist.
Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, these rolls fit seamlessly into any busy schedule—perfect for those last-minute brunch plans!
Mouthwatering flavors: The warm notes of cinnamon and buttery goodness create a flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing.
Serveable and shareable: Perfect for gatherings, each roll is beautifully crafted, ensuring everyone gets a taste of heaven.
Versatile topping: Drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness, making these rolls customizable and fun!
Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Roll Ingredients
• Get ready to create your delicious Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls!
For the Cinnamon Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – The star ingredient that gives these rolls their classic flavor and delightful aroma.
- ½ cup butter – Use softened butter to help create a gooey, luxurious filling that binds the sugar and cinnamon.
For the Rolls
- 1 package Hawaiian rolls – These soft, sweet rolls are the perfect foundation for your cinnamon rolls, making them extra fluffy!
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese – Provides a creamy, tangy layer that balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors and adds a lovely warmth to the frosting.
- 1 cup confectioners sugar – Sweetens the frosting to your liking and creates a delightful finish on top.
Optional Drizzle
- Simple glaze (optional) – Drizzle over the rolls for an extra touch of sweetness and enhance their visual appeal!
Now that you're armed with all the necessary ingredients, let’s roll into the preparation of these Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls that will surely bring joy to your breakfast table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a moment to lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This step ensures that your Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls won’t stick, allowing them to come out beautifully golden and easy to serve.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, making sure to mix thoroughly. Next, add in ¼ cup of softened butter to the bowl, using a spatula to work it into a paste-like consistency. This mixture will deliver a burst of sweet, cinnamon flavor in your rolls.
Step 3: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls
Carefully take your package of Hawaiian rolls and slice them in half horizontally or into quarters, depending on your preference. Lay the cut rolls neatly in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they’re close together, as this will help them rise and create a fluffy texture while baking.
Step 4: Spread the Cream Cheese
Take your 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and spread it generously over the cut sides of each roll. The cream cheese adds a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon filling. Ensure that each piece of roll has a nice layer of cream cheese to enhance the flavor of your Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
Now, evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cream-cheese-covered rolls. Make sure all rolls are generously coated, as this will infuse each bite with a delightful sweetness and a lovely cinnamon aroma as they bake.
Step 6: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let your Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them and look for a golden-brown hue on top, signaling that they’re perfectly baked and ready to come out.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow your rolls to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This step helps them set and makes them easier to serve. Enjoy the delightful aroma as they cool and prepare to share this comforting treat with your family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Enjoy them while they're fresh!
Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the rolls for 20-30 seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they’re warm and gooey!
Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to infuse your own creativity and taste into these delightful rolls!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly option. Enjoy the same creamy texture without any dairy!
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Nutty Boost: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts in the cinnamon-sugar filling for a delicious crunch. The added nuts provide a satisfying contrast to the softness of the rolls.
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Fruitful Addition: Add thinly sliced apples or pears mixed in with the cinnamon-sugar filling for a fruity twist. This addition brings a fresh burst of flavor!
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Spice it Up: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom with your cinnamon for a warm, aromatic layer of spice. These subtle notes will elevate your cinnamon rolls to new heights.
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Glaze it Up: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or experiment with flavored extracts like orange or almond for a special touch. This sweet finish takes your rolls to another level!
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Chocolate Chip Delight: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cream cheese before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture. The melted chocolate adds a delightful richness that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Heat it Up: If you love a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cinnamon mixture. This unexpected heat balances beautifully with the sweetness.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free Hawaiian rolls to ensure everyone can indulge in these sweet treats. No one will miss the gluten with this scrumptious alternative!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
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Perfect Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted. This helps to create a creamy filling without blending too much liquid into the dough.
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Cutting Technique: When slicing your Hawaiian rolls, use a serrated knife and be gentle. This prevents tearing the rolls and maintains their fluffy texture.
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Layering the Filling: Spread the cream cheese thickly and evenly over each roll before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This ensures that every bite of your Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls is deliciously creamy.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your rolls during baking. Ovens vary, and removing them when they’re just golden brown will keep them soft and fluffy instead of dry.
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Cooling Time: Let the rolls cool for a full 10 minutes in the pan. This step allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to serve without falling apart.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls?
There's something special about pairing sweet treats with flavors that elevate every bite into a memorable experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits brings a refreshing balance that cuts through the sweetness of the rolls.
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Savory Breakfast Casserole: This hearty dish adds a savory twist, perfectly complementing the cinnamon rolls' sweetness. The eggs and cheese will create a satisfying contrast.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon pairs wonderfully with the sweet, sticky rolls, creating an irresistible combination of flavors.
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Coffee or Latte: A warm cup of coffee or a creamy latte enhances the flavors, making every bite of Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls even more delightful.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert twist, scoop vanilla ice cream on warm rolls. The creaminess melts into the sugary goodness, achieving pure bliss!
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup over the rolls adds a rich, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and cream cheese.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream can be dolloped on top, blending with the cream cheese frosting for added creaminess.
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Herbal Tea: A calming herbal tea offers a fragrant counterpart, making for a soothing afternoon treat alongside your sweet rolls.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls are a game-changer for meal prep, perfect for busy weekends or unexpected brunch guests! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by following Steps 1-5 and then covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This keeps the rolls fresh and prevents them from drying out. When you're ready to indulge, simply preheat the oven and bake them directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time for the best quality. Rest assured, your warm, gooey cinnamon rolls will taste just as delicious as if you made them from scratch that same day!
Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of Hawaiian rolls should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! When selecting Hawaiian rolls, look for those that are soft, fresh, and slightly sweet—these qualities will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your cinnamon rolls. Brands like King's Hawaiian are widely popular for their delightful sweetness and fluffiness, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need a longer storage option, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 5 days. Just remember, they taste best when fresh!
Can I freeze Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls?
Definitely! For long-term storage, you can freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To do this, let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, let the rolls thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheate them in the oven or microwave.
Why are my cinnamon rolls dry or hard?
Oh no! If your cinnamon rolls turn out dry, it could be due to baking them for too long. Keep an eye on them as they bake—remove the rolls from the oven when they're golden brown. It’s also important that your butter is softened, not melted, when mixing the filling, as this helps retain moisture.
Can pets eat Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls?
No, it’s best not to share these rolls with your furry friends. Ingredients like sugar and cream cheese aren’t suitable for pets, especially dogs, which can lead to tummy troubles. Always be cautious and treat them to their own pet-safe snacks instead!
What should I do if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?
If you find yourself without cream cheese, no worries! You can create a simple glaze using powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until you reach your desired consistency, and drizzle it over the warm rolls for that sweet finishing touch. The more the merrier when it comes to delicious customization!
Indulgent Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Crave!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon, then add softened butter to create a paste.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half and lay them in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread cream cheese over the cut sides of each roll.
- Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the cream-cheese-covered rolls.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown on top.
- Allow rolls to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before serving.
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