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This quick Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls recipe transforms store-bought sweet rolls into a magnificent breakfast treat with minimal effort. The creamy cheese filling combined with the warm cinnamon sugar creates an irresistible morning indulgence that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
I first made these during a chaotic holiday morning when I needed something special but had zero time. These rolls saved the day and have since become our Saturday morning tradition while we watch cartoons in pajamas.
Ingredients
- King's Hawaiian original sweet rolls: These provide the perfect soft, slightly sweet base that eliminates the need for making dough from scratch
- Salted butter: The richness enhances the cinnamon flavor and helps create that gorgeous golden exterior
- Brown sugar: Adds a deeper molasses note than regular sugar would provide
- Ground cinnamon: Look for fresh, fragrant cinnamon for the best flavor profile
- Cream cheese: Full-fat works best here for the creamiest texture
- Granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese perfectly
- Egg: Creates a custard-like filling that sets beautifully in the oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the rolls:
- Cut a small opening in each roll carefully keeping the bottom intact. This creates the perfect pocket for the filling while maintaining the roll structure. I find using a small serrated knife works best for clean cuts.
- Create the cinnamon mixture:
- Thoroughly combine the melted butter brown sugar and cinnamon until completely smooth. Make sure the butter is fully melted but not hot which helps the sugar dissolve evenly. Brush this generously inside and over the tops of each roll reaching all surfaces.
- Prepare the filling:
- Beat the cream cheese until completely smooth before adding other ingredients about 2 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the sugar and egg beating for another minute until silky and uniform in texture. The mixture should be thick but spoonable.
- Fill the rolls:
- Use a small spoon to carefully fill each cavity with the cream cheese mixture. Fill them slightly higher than the opening as the filling will settle during baking. For precision I sometimes transfer the filling to a piping bag.
- Bake to perfection:
- Position the rack in the center of the oven for even heat distribution. Watch for the rolls to turn golden brown and the filling to set but still maintain a slight jiggle in the center. Overbaking will dry out the rolls.
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My favorite part of this recipe is watching the cinnamon butter caramelize slightly around the edges of the rolls. That first bite where the warm spiced exterior meets the creamy center reminds me of special Sunday breakfasts with my grandmother who always said cinnamon was good for the soul.
Flavor Variations
These cinnamon rolls welcome customization depending on your mood. Try adding orange zest to the cream cheese filling for a citrus twist that brightens the whole experience. You could also mix mini chocolate chips into the filling or sprinkle chopped pecans over the tops before baking for added texture. My personal favorite variation includes a teaspoon of vanilla extract in the cream cheese mixture which enhances the dessert-like quality.
Serving Suggestions
While these rolls are magnificent on their own consider serving them with fresh berries on the side to balance the richness. For special occasions drizzle warm maple syrup over the tops just before serving or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. When hosting brunch I arrange them on a tiered platter alongside fresh fruit and a pot of strong coffee creating an impressive spread with minimal effort.
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Storage Tips
These rolls are best enjoyed fresh from the oven but can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat place them covered with foil in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave individual rolls for 20 seconds. Avoid freezing the baked rolls as the texture of the filling changes upon thawing. However you can prepare them up to the point of baking freeze unbaked and then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, but King's Hawaiian sweet rolls provide the ideal soft, slightly sweet base for this dish.
- → Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
You can assemble the rolls a few hours in advance and bake them when ready to serve for maximum freshness.
- → What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative can be used for a similar consistency.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
- → Can I add extra toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding powdered sugar, drizzled caramel, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.