These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the soft, fluffy texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for a decadent breakfast or brunch, these rolls are sure to be a hit! Trust me, you’ll love the creamy filling and crispy, cinnamon-sugar coating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique & Delicious: A creative twist on traditional cinnamon rolls.
- Soft & Fluffy: King’s Hawaiian rolls provide a unique texture.
- Creamy Filling: Cream cheese filling adds richness and tang.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with impressive results.
Ingredients
For Custard:
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: Provides a soft, sweet base.
- Half and Half: Adds richness to the custard.
- Eggs (Beaten): Provides structure and richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic flavor.
- Butter (Cubed): For searing the rolls.
For Filling:
- Cream Cheese (Softened): Adds creaminess and tang.
- Butter (Melted): Adds richness to the filling.
- Ground Cinnamon: Enhances the cinnamon flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
For Cinnamon Sugar:
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the coating.
- Ground Cinnamon: Provides the signature cinnamon flavor.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a bowl, mix melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar until a paste forms. Set aside.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Prepare Rolls: Cut Hawaiian rolls in half. Spread softened cream cheese on both sides. Drizzle cinnamon swirl over cream cheese. Sandwich rolls together. Chill for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Custard: In a bowl, whisk half and half, eggs, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Dip Rolls: Dip each chilled roll into the custard for 15-30 seconds.
- Sear Rolls: Preheat a sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add butter and sear rolls in batches like French toast until golden brown on at least 3 sides (4-5 minutes per batch). Wipe out the pan between batches.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Toss seared rolls in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
- Serve: Serve warm.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for easy spreading.
- Chill the rolls before dipping to prevent them from falling apart.
- Sear the rolls over medium-low heat to avoid burning.
- Wipe out the pan between batches to prevent burnt sugar.
How to Serve Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls
- Serve warm for breakfast or brunch.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filled rolls ahead of time and refrigerate. Dip and sear when ready to serve.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of roll? Yes, but King’s Hawaiian rolls provide a unique texture and sweetness.
- Can I use a different type of sugar? You can use coconut sugar or other granulated sugars for the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Can I add other fillings? Yes, you can add chopped nuts, raisins, or other fruit fillings.
- How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy? Don’t soak the rolls in the custard for too long and sear them until golden brown.
These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and unique treat that’s perfect for any occasion! Simple to prepare, packed with creamy, cinnamon-sugar flavors, and endlessly satisfying, this recipe is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime. Enjoy the fluffy, flavorful rolls with every delicious bite!
PrintHawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-inspired
Description
These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast treat, combining the sweet, buttery flavor of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with a creamy cream cheese filling, a rich cinnamon swirl, and a crispy, sugary exterior. Dipped in a cinnamon custard and pan-seared like French toast, these rolls are a decadent and irresistible way to start your day or enjoy a sweet brunch.
Ingredients
For Custard:
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 2/3 cup half and half
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
For Filling:
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
For Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl:
- In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar until it forms a paste.
- Set aside.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:
- Mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a large bowl.
- Set aside.
- Fill Rolls:
- Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half.
- Spread softened cream cheese on both sides of the rolls.
- Drizzle the cinnamon swirl over the cream cheese.
- Sandwich the top and bottom buns together.
- Chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.
- Prepare Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Dip Rolls:
- Dip each chilled roll into the custard mixture for 15-30 seconds, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Sear Rolls:
- Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat for 1 minute.
- Add one cube of butter to the pan.
- Sear the custard-dipped rolls in batches like French toast until golden brown on at least 3 sides (around 4-5 minutes per batch).
- Wipe out the pan with a paper towel between batches to prevent burning the sugar.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
- Remove the seared rolls to the cinnamon sugar bowl and toss until fully coated.
- Place on a serving plate.
- Serve:
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened to make it easier to spread.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon swirl to your preference.
- Keep the heat at medium-low to prevent the rolls from burning.
- Serve with a drizzle of icing or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- For a richer flavor, you can use heavy cream instead of half and half.
- If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar.
- Storing leftovers: keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 350kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg