Meet your new favorite treat: King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls. Fluffy, golden rolls brimming with a cloud-like vanilla cream filling, these are as fun to make as they are to eat. Sweet, simple, and stunningly beautiful with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scattering of fresh berries, this dessert will steal the spotlight at any gathering or make an ordinary day feel extra special. The irresistible combination of pillowy bread and cold, luscious cream is pure magic in every bite—easy enough for a weeknight, delightful enough for a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pudding Mixture:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
Additional:
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls (12-count)
- Fresh berries or fruit preserves (optional, for topping or filling)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls
Step 1: Whip the Cream
Start by pouring the heavy whipping cream into a medium-sized bowl. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat with a hand mixer (or a sturdy whisk if you want an arm workout) until the cream forms soft peaks. The goal is a cloud-like, billowy texture that will melt beautifully in your mouth. Don’t overwhip—it should look smooth and creamy, not stiff or grainy.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Base
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and the cold milk. Keep whisking for about two minutes; you’ll notice the mixture thickening up to a luxurious, velvety consistency. This is what gives the King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls their luscious filling that doesn’t run or ooze.
Step 3: Fold It All Together
Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the thickened pudding base. Use a spatula and a light touch—think gentle scoops and swirls. This keeps the filling fluffy, airy, and irresistible. Your dreamily smooth cream should be able to hold its shape, perfect for tucking inside those sweet rolls.
Step 4: Slice and Fill the Rolls
Carefully slice the King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls in half horizontally, creating a neat top and bottom for each roll. Using a spoon or piping bag, dollop or pipe the vanilla cream generously onto the bottom half of each roll. Here’s your moment to add a layer of fresh berries or a spoonful of fruit preserves, if you’re feeling fancy!
Step 5: Assemble and Finish
Set the tops of the rolls back on, pressing gently to sandwich that luscious filling inside. Just before serving, dust the King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls with a snowy layer of powdered sugar for a bakery-worthy finish. Serve chilled for peak deliciousness!
How to Serve King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls
Garnishes
The simple addition of a dusting of powdered sugar transforms these rolls into a showstopper. A handful of fresh berries or a few mint leaves adds an inviting pop of color and freshness. For extra flair, a drizzle of berry sauce or chocolate syrup is pure magic.
Side Dishes
Pair King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls with a platter of mixed fruit, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a citrusy salad for a bright, refreshing contrast to the sweet, creamy rolls. A cup of hot coffee or iced tea brings everything together perfectly for a relaxed afternoon treat or a dessert spread to remember.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the filled rolls on a cake stand or vintage tray, nestled among sprigs of mint or edible flowers. For parties, serve each roll in its own colorful cupcake liner. Or cut the rolls into mini sandwiches and stack them high for a playful, kid-friendly version of King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls that’s just as irresistible for adults.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls left, they’ll keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The rolls might soften a bit, but the flavor stays incredible, and that creamy filling is just as dreamy the next day.
Freezing
While these are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cream filling separately for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, give it a gentle stir, and assemble the rolls just before serving to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls are meant to be served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a slightly warmer roll, let the filled rolls rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving—just don’t microwave them, as it may affect the cream filling’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade rolls instead of store-bought King’s Hawaiian?
You can absolutely make your own sweet rolls if you prefer, but King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls have a uniquely soft and airy texture that really makes this recipe sing. Store-bought keeps things quick, easy, and always delicious.
What other flavors of pudding mix work well?
Vanilla pudding is the classic choice, but you can experiment with white chocolate, coconut, or even cheesecake pudding mixes for a twist. Each one gives the King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls a new flavor personality—go ahead and make it your own!
How do I keep the cream filling from being runny?
Be sure to beat the whipped cream to soft peaks and thoroughly mix the pudding until it’s thick. Folding the cream in gently will keep things airy but stable. If it seems too soft, chill the filling for 10-15 minutes before assembling the rolls.
Are King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls gluten free?
Traditional King’s Hawaiian rolls are not gluten free. If you need a gluten-free version, try using your favorite gluten-free sweet rolls and double-check that your pudding mix is also gluten free.
Can I make King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls ahead for a party?
Definitely! For the freshest texture, prepare the cream filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Slice the rolls and keep them wrapped, then just assemble the cream rolls right before serving—they’ll taste like you just whipped them up.
Final Thoughts
I can honestly say that sharing these King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls feels a bit like letting you in on a family secret. They’re gloriously easy, a delight to make with loved ones, and so delicious that you may just find yourself making up reasons to whip them together. Give them a try, share them around, and watch them disappear—you’ll be the star of any table!
Print
King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 cream rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the heavenly combination of fluffy King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls filled with a luscious cream mixture, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cream Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pudding Mixture:
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
Additional:
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls (12-count)
- Fresh berries or fruit preserves (optional, for topping or filling)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Make Pudding Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Cream and Pudding: Fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble Rolls: Slice each sweet roll in half horizontally. Spoon or pipe the cream mixture onto the bottom half of each roll. Add fresh berries or fruit preserves if desired, then place the top half back on.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar just before serving.
Notes
- These cream rolls are best served chilled.
- For easy prep ahead, store the whipped filling separately and assemble just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American, Hawaiian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cream roll
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 135 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
