If you have a soft spot for sweet breads that melt in your mouth and deliver a perfect harmony of flavors, this Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Bringing together the fluffiness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls, the tangy creaminess of soft cream cheese, and the irresistible warmth of cinnamon sugar, these rolls transform breakfast or brunch into a joyous occasion. Every bite offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes that feels both comforting and a bit indulgent — truly a recipe you’ll want to share with everyone you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each one plays a pivotal role in creating the rich flavor, tender texture, and inviting aroma that make these Hawaiian cinnamon rolls so special. From the soft sweetness of the rolls themselves to the luscious cream cheese and the fragrant cinnamon, every component works in harmony.
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: The soft, sweet base that makes every bite so tender and fluffy, perfect for soaking up flavors.
- Half and half: Adds a creamy richness to the custard, helping it coat the rolls beautifully.
- Eggs (beaten): Essential for binding the custard and giving the rolls a golden, French toast-like crust.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds warm, comforting notes.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice lending its irresistible warm and slightly spicy flavor.
- Butter (cubed and melted): Used for the cinnamon swirl and searing, adding richness and helping caramelize the sugar.
- Cream cheese (softened): Brings a smooth, tangy layer that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Brown sugar: Deepens the caramel flavor in the cinnamon swirl.
- Granulated sugar: Used in the cinnamon sugar coating to add the perfect crispy sweetness after searing.
How to Make Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
Start by mixing the melted butter, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar in a bowl until it forms a smooth paste. This cinnamon swirl is going to be the gooey center that brings a burst of flavor inside each roll, so make sure it’s well combined for that iconic rich sweetness.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar mixture. This will coat the rolls after searing and add that lovely crunch and sparkle on the outside — a little twist that toes the line between soft and crispy magic.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Carefully slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Generously spread softened cream cheese on both the top and bottom halves. Then, drizzle your prepared cinnamon swirl paste over the cream cheese layers. Gently sandwich the halves back together, creating a luscious stuffed roll, and chill them in the fridge for 20 minutes to let the flavors set and make dipping easier.
Step 4: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a large bowl. This custard will soak into the rolls and give them that rich, French toast-inspired coating — it’s where softness meets a golden, caramelized crust.
Step 5: Dunk and Sear the Rolls
Dip each chilled roll into the custard mixture for about 15 to 30 seconds, ensuring it’s fully saturated but not falling apart. Meanwhile, heat a sauté pan over medium-low heat and melt a cube of butter. Place the custard-dipped rolls in the pan in batches, searing until golden brown on at least three sides — this takes around 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Wipe the pan clean between batches to prevent sugar from burning and your rolls stay perfectly caramelized.
Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar and Serve
Once seared, immediately toss the warm rolls in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating every bit in that addictive sweet-spiced crunch. Arrange them on a serving plate and enjoy warm for the ultimate treat that your taste buds will thank you for.
How to Serve Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness and a pretty shine. If you want a boost of freshness, add finely chopped toasted macadamia nuts for a tropical crunch that complements the Hawaiian twist perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a simple fresh fruit salad with pineapple and mango to play up the tropical vibes, or pair with a rich cup of coffee or creamy chai latte to balance the sweet and spiced flavors of the rolls. These sides keep your meal bright and enticing without overpowering the star treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider stacking the rolls in a basket lined with a colorful cloth napkin for a festive breakfast table. For a party, arrange small skewers through each roll to make portable finger food. You can even serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a super indulgent dessert twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their softness and flavor. Avoid refrigeration if possible, as it can dry them out.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a warm oven to refresh their cozy softness.
Reheating
To bring them back to life, reheat rolls in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. You can also pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may leave them gummy instead of delightfully tender and caramelized.
FAQs
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of King’s Hawaiian Rolls?
While you can substitute with other soft rolls, King’s Hawaiian Rolls provide a unique sweet flavor and fluffy texture that’s central to this recipe’s appeal. Using standard rolls will slightly change the taste and softness.
Is it necessary to chill the rolls before dipping in custard?
Chilling helps the cinnamon swirl and cream cheese set, making the rolls easier to handle when dipping. It also prevents the rolls from falling apart in the custard, so it’s a helpful step for best results.
Can I make the cinnamon swirl and cinnamon sugar mixtures ahead of time?
Absolutely! Both mixtures can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered at room temperature. This makes the assembly smoother and quicker on the day you want to enjoy your rolls.
Are these rolls suitable for breakfast or dessert?
These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe are wonderfully versatile and can work beautifully for both breakfast and dessert. They’re sweet and rich enough to be a special treat any time of day.
How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from burning while searing?
Wiping out the pan with a paper towel between batches gets rid of the burnt sugar residue. Using medium-low heat also helps ensure the rolls get perfectly golden without the sugar darkening too much.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is a heartfelt way to bring a little island-inspired joy and cozy sweetness into your kitchen. Its blend of soft rolls, luscious cream cheese, and that irresistible cinnamon sugar crust is sure to become a beloved staple for your family and friends. Give it a try, and prepare to be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create moments full of warmth, comfort, and a sprinkle of tropical magic.
Print
Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these delightful Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls, a luscious twist on the classic cinnamon roll made with soft King’s Hawaiian rolls. Each roll is generously spread with creamy cream cheese, layered with a rich cinnamon-brown sugar swirl, dipped in a custard mixture, and pan-seared like French toast to achieve a golden, caramelized crust. Finished by coating in cinnamon sugar, these rolls are perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Swirl
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- â…“ cup brown sugar
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Rolls and Filling
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
Custard Mixture
- â…” cup half and half
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed (for searing)
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a bowl, mix together the melted butter, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar until it forms a smooth, spreadable paste. Set this aside for later use.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a separate large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon thoroughly. This will be used to coat the rolls after cooking. Set aside.
- Fill Rolls: Slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on both the top and bottom halves. Then, drizzle the prepared cinnamon swirl over the cream cheese layers.
- Assemble and Chill: Press the top and bottom halves of each roll together to sandwich the filling. Place the assembled rolls in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to help set the filling and firm up for easier cooking.
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined.
- Dip Rolls: Remove the chilled rolls from the fridge and dip each one into the custard mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated on all sides. Allow them to soak for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Preheat Pan: Heat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat for about 1 minute. Add one cube of butter to the pan just before searing.
- Sear Rolls: Place the custard-dipped rolls in the pan in batches. Cook them like French toast, searing each roll for about 4-5 minutes per batch until they are golden brown on at least three sides. Between batches, wipe the pan clean with a paper towel to prevent burning of sugars.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the seared rolls from the pan and immediately toss them in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve: Arrange coated rolls on a serving plate. Serve warm to enjoy the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and cinnamon flavors.
Notes
- Use fresh eggs and good-quality half and half for a richer custard coating.
- Ensure the pan is not too hot during searing to avoid burning the sugar.
- You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free option.
- For a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon inside the custard mix or on top after cooking.
- These rolls are best served warm but can be reheated gently in a skillet.
