Soft, fluffy King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are transformed into a delightful treat with a rich cream cheese filling and a buttery cinnamon-sugar glaze. These rolls are quick to prepare and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
The combination of the sweet rolls, creamy filling, and warm cinnamon notes creates a comforting and indulgent experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cream cheese-filled rolls are sure to impress and satisfy.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Place the rolls in the prepared dish. Using a serrated knife, cut a square into the top of each roll, about halfway down, and remove the cut-out portion.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Brush the mixture generously over the tops and insides of the rolls.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and egg; mix until well combined.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each hollowed roll, filling to the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cream cheese filling is set and the rolls are golden brown.
- Allow to cool for 20 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 12 rolls
The Background of Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
Hawaiian sweet rolls originated from the Portuguese settlers in Hawaii, who introduced enriched, slightly sweet bread rolls to the islands. Over time, these soft and fluffy rolls became a household staple, known for their buttery, slightly sweet flavor. The most popular brand, King’s Hawaiian, made these rolls a pantry favorite across the U.S.
Our version takes the classic Hawaiian roll and elevates it with a luscious cream cheese filling and a warm cinnamon-sugar butter glaze, making it a decadent treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The inspiration behind this dish stems from traditional Danish pastries and cheesecake-filled pastries, but with the convenience and fluffiness of Hawaiian rolls.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Quick and Easy – No kneading, proofing, or waiting. The pre-made Hawaiian sweet rolls save time while still providing an ultra-soft texture.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The sweet, buttery rolls pair beautifully with the tangy cream cheese filling, while the cinnamon-brown sugar glaze adds warmth and depth.
- Versatile for Any Occasion – Serve these for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. They’re perfect for holidays, special gatherings, or meal prep.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Only a handful of basic ingredients create an indulgent experience without complicated steps.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Whether you’re hosting brunch or need a quick sweet fix, these rolls will disappear quickly at the table.
Ingredients Breakdown
To understand why this recipe works so well, let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients:
- Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – Their soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet taste provide the perfect base.
- Cream Cheese – Creates a rich, creamy filling that balances the sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the filling.
- Egg – Helps create a smooth, velvety filling texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Gives a rich and glossy finish when brushed onto the rolls.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the glaze.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor profile with warm, spiced notes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Rolls
- Prepare the Rolls
- Arrange the Hawaiian sweet rolls in a greased baking dish. Using a serrated knife, carefully cut out the top centers of each roll, creating a well for the filling.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- Beat the cream cheese, sugar, and egg together until smooth. This creates a cheesecake-like filling.
- Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Butter Glaze
- Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then brush it over and inside the rolls.
- Fill and Bake
- Spoon the cream cheese filling into each roll’s center. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve
- Allow to cool for at least 20 minutes to let the filling set properly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast & Brunch – Pair with fresh fruit and a cup of coffee or tea.
- Dessert – Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Holiday Treat – Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm for festive occasions.
Variations to Try
Want to customize your Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls? Here are some creative twists:
- Fruit-Filled Delight
- Add blueberry, raspberry, or strawberry preserves for a fruity burst.
- Nutty Crunch
- Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the glaze before baking.
- Chocolate Indulgence
- Stir chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a chocolatey surprise.
- Pumpkin Spice Version
- Replace cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired variation.
- Savory Twist
- Swap out the sugar for cheddar cheese and add a pinch of garlic powder for a savory, cheesy roll.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigeration:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month.
- To reheat, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
Make-Ahead:
- Prepare and assemble the rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next morning.
FAQs About This Recipe
1. Can I use regular bread rolls instead of Hawaiian sweet rolls?
Yes, but you may need to add a little more sugar to the filling to compensate for the sweetness in Hawaiian rolls.
2. How can I prevent the cream cheese filling from sinking?
Ensure that you don’t overmix the egg into the cream cheese mixture, as too much air can cause it to collapse.
3. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter.
4. Can I add a glaze on top after baking?
Absolutely! A simple vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract adds extra sweetness.
5. What other toppings can I add?
Try a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Final Thoughts
Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls are the ultimate combination of convenience and indulgence. With minimal prep and easy ingredients, this recipe allows you to create a bakery-quality treat at home. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or as an after-dinner dessert, their buttery, creamy, and spiced flavors will keep you coming back for more.
Try this recipe today and elevate your baking game with these delectable, cream cheese-filled rolls. Let us know how they turn out, and feel free to experiment with variations to make them your own!
Conclusion: The Perfect Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls are a deliciously simple yet indulgent treat that brings together the buttery softness of Hawaiian rolls, the richness of cream cheese, and the warmth of cinnamon-sugar glaze. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying dessert, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of flavors and textures—the fluffy bread, creamy filling, and caramelized glaze create a mouthwatering bite every time. Plus, with customizable variations, you can easily tailor it to suit your personal taste. Whether you add fruits, nuts, chocolate, or a drizzle of icing, these rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Not only is this recipe quick and beginner-friendly, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal go-to for those who love homemade baked goods without the hassle. Serve them fresh out of the oven for the best experience, and don’t forget to experiment with different flavors to keep things exciting!
So, whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating yourself to a sweet snack, or looking for an easy yet impressive dessert, these Sweet Hawaiian Cream Cheese Rolls are bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Try them today and enjoy a warm, creamy, and utterly delightful bite!