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This decadent twist on classic cinnamon rolls transforms store-bought King's Hawaiian sweet rolls into a luxurious treat that tastes completely homemade. The pillowy soft rolls filled with creamy cheese filling and fragrant cinnamon create the perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I first made these rolls when hosting a last minute brunch for friends. The recipe was such a hit that it's now my go to impressive breakfast when family visits even though it requires almost no effort on my part.
Ingredients
- King's Hawaiian original sweet rolls. The pillowy texture and slight sweetness makes these the perfect base. Their signature flavor complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Salted butter. Creates that rich golden exterior and helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick. The quality of butter matters here for best flavor.
- Brown sugar. Adds a deeper caramel note than regular sugar would. Dark or light both work well.
- Ground cinnamon. The star spice that gives these rolls their classic flavor. Use fresh cinnamon for the most aromatic result.
- Cream cheese. The tang balances the sweetness beautifully. Be sure it's fully softened for the smoothest filling.
- Granulated sugar. Sweetens the filling without overpowering. Fine sugar dissolves best in the mixture.
- Egg. Creates a custard like texture in the filling and helps it set while baking. Room temperature works best.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the oven and rolls.
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Place the Hawaiian rolls in the dish with space between them if possible for even baking.
- Create cavities in the rolls.
- Using a sharp knife cut a small square in the top of each roll approximately 1 inch deep but be careful not to cut through the bottom. Gently pull out some of the bread creating a little pocket for the filling while preserving the structure of the roll.
- Prepare and apply cinnamon mixture.
- Melt butter until just liquid but not hot. Mix in brown sugar and cinnamon until fully incorporated with no lumps. Using a pastry brush generously coat both the tops and insides of the rolls ensuring the cinnamon flavor infuses throughout.
- Make the cream cheese filling.
- Beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer for at least 2 minutes until completely smooth and fluffy. Add sugar and continue beating for another minute. Add the egg and mix until the filling has a silky consistency with no lumps.
- Fill the rolls.
- Using a spoon or small scoop carefully fill each roll cavity with the cream cheese mixture. Fill them to slightly heaping as the mixture will settle during baking. Make sure all rolls have an equal amount for even baking.
- Bake to perfection.
- Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until you see the tops turning golden brown and the filling has puffed slightly. The filling should be just set but still have a slight jiggle when done.
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My family particularly loves the way the cream cheese filling gets a slightly caramelized top while staying creamy inside. My daughter always requests these for her birthday breakfast and insists the King's Hawaiian rolls are essential not just any bread will do.
Make Ahead Options
These cinnamon rolls are perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble them completely the night before cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning simply let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes while your oven preheats then bake as directed. The filling might need an extra minute or two in the oven if baking from cold but otherwise the process remains the same.
Seasonal Variations
During summer months try adding finely diced fresh peaches to the cream cheese mixture for a seasonal twist. In fall a tablespoon of pumpkin puree and a pinch of pumpkin spice creates a festive variation. Winter holidays call for a touch of orange zest in the filling which brightens the flavor profile perfectly. These adaptations keep the recipe fresh and exciting throughout the year without changing the beloved base.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls shine brightest when served warm about 5 minutes after removing from the oven. For an extra special presentation drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit especially berries which cut through the richness. For brunch serve alongside savory options like eggs and bacon to create a balanced spread that will please everyone at the table.
The History Behind The Hack
This recipe represents the best of American cooking ingenuity taking a premade product and transforming it into something that tastes completely homemade. King's Hawaiian rolls themselves have an interesting history originating in Hilo Hawaii in the 1950s before gaining mainland popularity. Their distinctive sweetness comes from a Portuguese influence in Hawaiian baking traditions making these cinnamon rolls a true melting pot recipe.
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Common Questions
- → Can I use other types of rolls instead of Kings Hawaiian?
While Kings Hawaiian rolls provide the signature sweet flavor that complements the cinnamon and cream cheese, you can substitute other dinner rolls. Just ensure they're sturdy enough to hold the filling and have a similar sweetness level for best results.
- → How do I know when the rolls are properly baked?
The rolls are done when they turn golden brown on top and the cream cheese filling is set but still slightly soft in the center, typically after about 15 minutes. Insert a toothpick near the edge of the filling - it should come out mostly clean.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can prepare the rolls up to the filling stage and refrigerate them covered for up to 8 hours before baking. Allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for best results.
- → What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Try adding vanilla extract or lemon zest to the cream cheese filling for extra flavor. You can also top with fresh berries before baking, drizzle with honey after baking, or add chopped nuts for texture. A simple powdered sugar glaze also works beautifully.
- → How should I serve these cinnamon rolls?
These rolls are best served warm about 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or milk. For a more decadent treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving as dessert.
- → Can these be frozen?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the baked rolls for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes before serving. The texture may change slightly but they'll still taste delicious.