Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls
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Let me introduce you to the easiest, most magical treat you’ll ever make: Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls. Imagine soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls stuffed with a creamy, dreamy filling, brushed with cinnamon-sugar butter, and baked to golden perfection. They’re ready in just 25 minutes, making them the ultimate quick-fix for breakfast, dessert, or those moments when your sweet tooth demands immediate attention.
These rolls are a total game-changer. One bite, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. I discovered this recipe during a lazy Sunday morning experiment, and let me tell you—it’s been a hit ever since. My family begs for them at every brunch, and last Christmas, my sister-in-law literally snuck a few into her purse to take home. Yes, they’re that good.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No need to wake up at dawn—these rolls come together in minutes.
- Heavenly Flavor Combo: Sweet rolls, creamy filling, and buttery cinnamon glaze? Pure magic.
- Foolproof: Even if you’re half-asleep, these turn out amazing every time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or whenever you want to impress without the effort.
- Customizable: Add your own twist with berries, caramel, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
Must-Have Ingredients
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: Their signature sweetness is the secret to this recipe. Don’t substitute!
- Cream Cheese: Let it soften completely for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- Butter: I prefer salted butter—it balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark both work, but dark adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon: Fresh is best—ditch that jar that’s been sitting in your pantry for years.
How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls – Step by Step
Step 1: Prep the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grab a small serrated knife and carefully cut a square out of the top of each roll. Gently hollow out the insides (but don’t toss them—snack on those while you work!).
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon-Butter Mixture
- Melt the butter until it’s just liquid—don’t let it get too hot. Whisk in the brown sugar and cinnamon until smooth. Pro tip: Brush some of this mixture inside the hollowed-out rolls for extra flavor.
Step 3: Whip Up the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s silky smooth. Add an egg (room temperature, please!) and mix until fully combined. Any lumps now will show up later, so take your time.
Step 4: Fill the Rolls
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each hollowed-out roll, filling them almost to the top. Trust me, they’ll puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
- Brush the tops of the rolls generously with the cinnamon-butter mixture.
- Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish so they’re touching—this helps them bake evenly.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the filling is just set.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the rolls cool for exactly 5 minutes before serving. The filling will set just enough while staying perfectly gooey.
Creative Twists and Tips
Sweet Variations
- Berry Bliss: Add a fresh raspberry or blueberry to the cream cheese filling before baking.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top the baked rolls with warm caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.
- Sea Salt Sprinkle: A tiny pinch of sea salt on top makes the sweetness pop.
Perfect Pairings
- Coffee Lover’s Dream: These rolls + a strong cup of coffee = pure bliss.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The perfect light and refreshing side.
- For the Kids: Serve with a glass of cold milk—they’ll love it!
Storage Secrets (If They Last That Long)
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Pop them in the microwave for 15 seconds to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven magic.
- Don’t Freeze: The texture just isn’t the same after freezing—trust me on this one.
Pro Tips From My Kitchen Disasters
- Grease the Pan: These rolls can stick like crazy, so don’t skip this step.
- Room Temp Ingredients: Cold cream cheese or eggs can ruin the filling’s texture.
- Watch the Oven: If the tops are browning too quickly, tent the dish with foil.
Make-Ahead Magic
Busy mornings? No problem. Here’s how to prep ahead:
- The Night Before: Mix the cream cheese filling and cinnamon-butter mixture, then store them in the fridge.
- Morning Of: Hollow out the rolls and assemble everything just before baking.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of roll?
- You could, but I promise King’s Hawaiian rolls make all the difference.
2. What if my cream cheese isn’t soft enough?
- Cut it into cubes and let it sit for another 15 minutes. Patience pays off here!
3. Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time slightly.
4. Why is my filling lumpy?
- Your cream cheese wasn’t soft enough, or your egg was too cold. Room temp ingredients are key!
5. Can I make these savory?
- Sure! Swap the cinnamon-sugar butter for garlic-herb butter and the cream cheese filling for a cheesy spinach mixture.
Final Thoughts
These Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls are the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary morning into something special. They’re ridiculously easy, totally customizable, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile.
Whether you’re serving them at brunch, whipping them up for dessert, or sneaking one as a midnight snack, these rolls are pure comfort in every bite. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pro baker to pull them off. Just follow the steps, embrace the mess, and enjoy the magic.
So go ahead, grab a pack of King’s Hawaiian rolls and get baking. Your taste buds will thank you! 🥐✨
