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These easy Hawaiian cinnamon rolls are a quick and irresistible twist on a breakfast classic, using soft King's Hawaiian rolls as the base. Sweetened cream cheese fills the center and each roll bakes up buttery and golden, with a crisp cinnamon sugar top. When my kids want a bakery treat on a busy morning, I whip these up before anyone has finished their first cup of coffee.
One morning I made these for my family during a school break and now the request pops up on every holiday morning. The gooey center with the caramelized top is what dreams are made of.
Ingredients
- Kings Hawaiian original sweet rolls: these sweet pillowy rolls make a perfect shortcut base always check freshness by giving the package a light squeeze
- Salted butter: melted butter gives the tops a shiny golden look and brings out cozy flavors pick a good quality butter for the richest taste
- Brown sugar: brings caramel notes that perfectly balance the cinnamon and cream cheese opt for dark brown for a deeper taste
- Ground cinnamon: the heart of any cinnamon roll look for a freshly opened jar for the boldest flavor
- Softened cream cheese: at room temp so you blend a perfectly smooth filling use full fat for creaminess
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the filling without making it gritty use superfine sugar if you have it
- Egg: the secret for a fluffy yet set cream cheese center use a fresh egg for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Get your oven hot at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a nine by thirteen baking dish so nothing sticks
- Prep the Rolls:
- Nestle the Hawaiian rolls side by side in the dish and use a small knife to carefully cut a fat square out of the top of each roll then gently pull out some of the soft bread without poking through the bottom this creates the perfect pocket for your filling
- Mix and Brush Cinnamon Butter:
- Stir together melted butter brown sugar and cinnamon until the mixture is glossy and smooth Using a pastry brush swab plenty of this over both the tops and the insides of the rolls so every inch gets flavor
- Beat the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- With a hand mixer beat the softened cream cheese until it is lump free Slowly add sugar and the egg blending well until the mixture is creamy and mounded
- Fill the Rolls:
- Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into each hollowed roll filling generously to the top and letting a little rise over the edge for gooey bites
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the dish into the hot oven and bake about fifteen minutes until the rolls are puffed golden and the filling is lightly set Let cool a few minutes so the cheese does not burn your tongue before serving
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One of my favorite parts is the edge of the rolls where the filling gets just a touch toasty My daughter likes to help by brushing on the cinnamon sugar butter and ends up licking the bowl clean every time
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days If you want to keep that soft bakery taste reheat in the oven for about five minutes at a low temperature These taste best warm so do not skip the quick reheat
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in a dairy free cream cheese if needed and use a flax egg to make these egg free White sandwich rolls work in a pinch but the sweet Hawaiian flavor really makes these shine Try adding a sprinkle of orange zest to the filling for a fresh twist
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with a little honey Fresh berries scattered on top before or after baking add a pop of color and tang If you are doing brunch try setting out a dish of extra cream cheese filling as a spread for people to add as they wish
Cultural Note
Hawaiian rolls originated in Hilo Hawaii in the nineteen fifties and bring a uniquely light sweet flavor to both savory and sweet dishes These easy cinnamon rolls reflect that island spirit with their buttery flavor and comforting softness
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different brand of sweet rolls?
Yes, any similar soft, sweet dinner rolls can be used, though King's Hawaiian gives the distinct flavor and texture.
- → How do I avoid overfilling the rolls?
Fill rolls until just below the top edge, ensuring the cream cheese does not spill over while baking.
- → What toppings pair well with these rolls?
Fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar work beautifully as finishers.
- → How should these be stored?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Briefly warm before serving.
- → Can this treat be made ahead?
The assembled, unbaked rolls can be covered and chilled overnight, then baked fresh when ready.
- → Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, as long as you use standard cream cheese and rolls, it is suitable for vegetarian diets.