Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls

Coincidentally, you've stumbled upon the perfect recipe to impress your guests. Hawaiian roll cinnamon rolls offer a unique twist on the classic breakfast treat, blending the soft, sweet flavors of Hawaiian rolls with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling. Customize them with tropical additions like coconut or macadamia nuts for an even more indulgent experience. But what makes these rolls truly special? You'll have to keep reading to find out.
History

Although the origins of Hawaiian rolls can be traced back to Portuguese immigrants who introduced sweet bread to Hawaii in the late 19th century, the modern cinnamon roll variation emerged in the 1950s.
Over time, bakers began experimenting with Hawaiian-influenced roll variations, incorporating ingredients like coconut, pineapple, and macadamia nuts.
These unique twists on the classic cinnamon roll showcased the islands' tropical flavors and became a beloved local delicacy.
Today, Hawaiian roll cinnamon rolls are a popular treat, blending the soft, pillowy texture of the original rolls with the warm, cinnamony goodness of a classic cinnamon bun.
Recipe

Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll. By using Hawaiian rolls as the base, these rolls become soft, fluffy, and lightly sweet. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat.
The Hawaiian rolls provide a tender and pillowy texture that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar filling. The addition of cream cheese frosting takes these rolls to the next level, creating a decadent and satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
In a large skillet or on a baking sheet, use a serrated knife to slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom.
Spread the softened butter evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered rolls.
Replace the top half of the rolls. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until the frosting is creamy and combined.
Once the rolls are baked, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
Nutritional Guide
While these Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls may seem indulgent, you can enjoy them as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional benefits include fiber from the whole wheat flour and nutrients like vitamin C from the pineapple.
To make these rolls healthier, use low-fat or non-fat cream cheese, unsweetened applesauce instead of butter, and reduce the amount of sugar. You can also experiment with ingredient alternatives like using whole wheat pastry flour or adding nuts for extra protein.
Final Thought
Now that you've learned about the nutritional benefits of these Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls, you can feel good about indulging in this decadent treat.
When serving, consider these cooking tips and serving suggestions. Slice the rolls and warm them briefly before serving to enhance the soft, pillowy texture. For added flavor, brush the warm rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with a dusting of cinnamon-sugar.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the rolls in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Enjoy this delightful homemade treat any time of day.