If you have a sweet tooth and a love for tropical flavors, you absolutely must try this Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Filled with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe. These rolls take the fluffy, sweet, and buttery King’s Hawaiian Rolls to a whole new level. Imagine soft, pillowy buns slathered with rich cream cheese and a luscious cinnamon sugar swirl, then dipped in a dreamy custard and pan-seared until perfectly golden. Each bite melts in your mouth with a delightful marriage of creamy, spicy, and sweet notes. Whether you’re serving breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack, this recipe promises a unique and unforgettable treat that’s bursting with comfort and aloha spirit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple but crucial ingredients that come together to create the texture, flavor, and warm hues that make these cinnamon rolls shine. Each component plays its part, from the soft rolls to the creamy filling and the sweet-spiced coating, making this creation truly special and approachable.
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: These sweet, fluffy buns are the base that delivers the signature soft texture and gentle pineapple essence.
- Half and half (â…” cup): Adds richness to the custard that soaks the rolls, making them tender and luscious.
- Eggs (2, beaten): Helps create the custard’s structure and binding.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a sweet, fragrant warmth that complements the cinnamon and cream cheese perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon + 1 tablespoon + 3 tablespoons): The star spice that brings cozy warmth and spicy sweetness to the swirl, custard, and sugar coating.
- Butter (2 tablespoons cubed + 4 tablespoons melted): Used both for creating the cinnamon swirl and for searing, imparting richness and helping achieve that golden crust.
- Cream cheese (8 oz., softened): Creates a divine, tangy filling that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cinnamon sugar.
- Brown sugar (â…“ cup): Blends with melted butter and cinnamon for a gooey, caramel-like swirl.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Combined with cinnamon to coat the rolls after searing, lending a crunchy, sweet finish.
How to Make Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Filled with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
Start by mixing the melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar in a bowl until it becomes a thick, paste-like swirl. This luscious mixture is what creates that deeply flavorful, sticky layer that hugs the cream cheese and rolls, giving each bite that irresistible gooeyness.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a separate large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Setting this aside is key because you’ll use it later to coat the rolls after they’re seared, ensuring a crunchy, sweet exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the soft inside.
Step 3: Fill the Rolls
Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls in half. Spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on both the top and bottom halves. Then, drizzle the cinnamon swirl mixture over the cream cheese. Once done, sandwich the buns back together and pop them in the fridge for 20 minutes. This chilling step helps the filling set, making the next steps easier and cleaner.
Step 4: Prepare the Custard
Whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl. This custard mixture will soak the rolls, tenderizing them and infusing each bite with cozy flavor reminiscent of French toast, but with that Hawaiian twist.
Step 5: Dip and Sear the Rolls
Dip each chilled roll into the custard, coating it thoroughly for 15 to 30 seconds. Heat a sauté pan over medium-low heat, add a cube of butter, and sear the rolls in batches until they’re golden brown on at least three sides—about 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Remember to wipe out the pan between batches to avoid any burnt residue affecting the flavor.
Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Once seared, immediately toss the rolls in the cinnamon sugar bowl until they’re fully coated in that sweet, crunchy mixture. Arrange them on a serving plate, and you’re ready to indulge in these melt-in-your-mouth delights.
How to Serve Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Filled with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle some powdered sugar lightly over the rolls for some extra sweetness and a pretty finish. Fresh pineapple chunks or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also add a tropical zing that highlights the Hawaiian spirit of this dish.
Side Dishes
Pair your cinnamon rolls with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tropical fruit smoothie to balance the richness. A simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette can also be an exciting contrast that refreshes the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these rolls in a large shallow basket lined with a brightly colored cloth napkin for that island vibe. You could also slice them into bite-sized pieces and serve them as a brunch buffet treat where everyone can grab a sweet, creamy morsel easily!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their softness and prevents the cinnamon sugar coating from drying out.
Freezing
These rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently.
Reheating
Warm leftover rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and the cinnamon sugar crust gets slightly crisp again. You can also microwave them briefly but watch carefully to avoid making them tough.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread rolls instead of King’s Hawaiian Rolls?
You can, but King’s Hawaiian Rolls bring a unique sweetness and softness that really elevate this recipe. Regular rolls might lack the subtle tropical flavor and fluffy texture, but soft brioche buns can be a decent substitute.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap out the half and half for a plant-based milk like coconut cream, use a vegan cream cheese, and substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and taste might differ slightly.
Can these rolls be baked instead of seared?
While baking is an option, searing gives these Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Filled with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe that irresistible crust and caramelized exterior. Baking might result in a softer, less textured finish.
How do I prevent the rolls from soaking up too much custard?
Chilling the cream cheese–filled rolls before dipping helps prevent them from absorbing too much custard at once, keeping them tender without becoming soggy. Also, limit dipping time to 15-30 seconds as directed.
Can I prepare these rolls the night before serving?
Absolutely! You can assemble and chill the rolls overnight and then dip and sear them fresh in the morning. This makes them perfect for a breakfast gathering or brunch party.
Final Thoughts
You are going to absolutely adore making and sharing this Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Filled with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe. It’s a joyful celebration of flavor and texture that brings the warmth of Hawaii and the comfort of cinnamon rolls together in one irresistible treat. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Filled with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls are a decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls, featuring King’s Hawaiian rolls filled with a creamy cinnamon swirl and cream cheese mixture. After chilling, they are dipped in a rich custard and lightly pan-seared like French toast to get a golden, caramelized crust. Finished with a coating of cinnamon sugar, this recipe results in soft, sweet, and irresistibly aromatic rolls perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Rolls and Filling
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
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
Custard Mixture
- â…” cup half and half
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar, stirring until it forms a thick paste. Set this aside to use as the flavorful filling.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a large bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon evenly. Set this aside for coating the rolls after cooking.
- Fill Rolls: Slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Spread the softened cream cheese generously on both the top and bottom halves of the rolls. Drizzle the prepared cinnamon swirl paste over the cream cheese on both sides, then sandwich the halves together.
- Chill Rolls: Place the filled and assembled rolls in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to allow the filling to set and enhance the flavors.
- Prepare Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
- Dip Rolls: Dip each chilled roll into the custard mixture for 15 to 30 seconds, ensuring the entire roll is well coated to absorb the custard.
- Preheat Pan: Warm a large sauté pan or skillet over medium-low heat for about 1 minute. Add one cube of butter to melt, preparing the pan for searing.
- Sear Rolls: Place the custard-dipped rolls in the pan in batches. Sear them similarly to French toast, cooking each batch for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning to brown at least three sides evenly until golden brown and caramelized. Wipe out the pan with a paper towel between batches to prevent sugar burning.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Transfer the seared rolls immediately to the cinnamon sugar mixture and toss or roll them until they are fully coated with the cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Serve: Arrange the cinnamon rolls on a serving plate. Serve warm for the best taste and enjoy the rich, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Notes
- Chilling the filled rolls before dipping them in custard helps the filling set and prevents the rolls from falling apart during cooking.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned pan to avoid sticking and burning of the sugar coating.
- Adjust the cinnamon quantity in the swirl and topping to your personal preference for spice level.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat half and half or substitute with heavy cream.
- Serve immediately after coating with cinnamon sugar for the best texture; leftovers can be warmed up gently.
