King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

These King's Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls transform soft, sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls into a treat that feels homemade and indulgent in just 20 minutes. The mix of buttery cinnamon sugar soaking into the rolls combined with a smooth cream cheese frosting makes this recipe perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dessert.

I remember making this first on a weekend morning when I had no time for dough prep and it was such a hit the kids asked for it again the next day

Ingredients

• Twelve count package Original King’s Hawaiian Rolls: for their irresistible sweetness and soft texture which is ideal for absorbing the cinnamon butter
• Six tablespoons unsalted butter: for richness in the cinnamon sugar mixture and frosting
• Two thirds cup dark brown sugar: to bring deep molasses flavor light brown sugar works too but dark gives better caramel notes
• One and a half teaspoons ground cinnamon: for that warm spice that defines cinnamon rolls
• Four ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature: makes the frosting creamy and tangy
• Two tablespoons unsalted butter softened for the frosting: to balance the cream cheese
• One and a half cups powdered sugar: to sweeten and thicken the frosting
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: to add depth and aroma to the frosting
• One tablespoon heavy cream: to loosen the frosting and make it spread perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slicing the Rolls:

Use a sharp knife to cut a spiral starting from the center of each roll outward to the edge if this is tricky just cut a large X instead. These cuts help the cinnamon butter soak into the rolls and create beautiful layers when baked.

Mixing Cinnamon Butter:

Combine butter sugar and cinnamon in a microwave safe bowl and melt the butter in short bursts. Stir vigorously to fully combine into a thick spreadable mixture. The brown sugar must be fully dissolved for even flavor and texture.

Spreading the Mixture:

Evenly spread the cinnamon butter onto and into the rolls carefully pushing it into the spiral or X cuts so the flavor penetrates deeply. Let the rolls rest for about 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the mixture.

Baking:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the rolls on the middle rack for around 10 minutes or until the rolls turn golden brown and the aroma fills your kitchen. Let them cool slightly before frosting.

Making the Frosting:

Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Add vanilla and powdered sugar gradually and continue beating until creamy. Add heavy cream a little at a time to get the perfect spreading consistency that stays thick but is easy to spread.

Frosting and Serving:

Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over warm rolls. The warmth helps the frosting soften slightly making each bite luxurious. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

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Storage Tips

Once cooled, store leftover cinnamon rolls covered tightly in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until just warm for a freshly baked feel. Freezing is possible but the texture is best on the day made or the next day.

Ingredient Substitutions

Light brown sugar can be used if dark brown sugar is not available, though flavor will be slightly milder. You can swap heavy cream for milk in the frosting but add it slowly to maintain the right consistency. Butter can be salted but reduce additional salt in your spread or frosting.

Serving Suggestions

These rolls are delicious on their own but you can serve them with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. They pair beautifully with a strong coffee or chai tea. For a brunch spread add scrambled eggs and fresh fruit on the side.

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Cultural Context

King’s Hawaiian Rolls originate from Hawaiian baking traditions featuring sweet enriched bread that balances softness and sweetness. Dessert or breakfast recipes like this showcase the rolls’ versatility beyond just sandwich buns. Cinnamon rolls themselves have long British and Scandinavian roots but have been embraced warmly across America.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other types of rolls?

While King’s Hawaiian rolls bring a unique sweetness and texture, other soft, slightly sweet rolls can work, though the flavor and softness may vary.

→ What’s the best way to cut the rolls for filling?

A spiral cut into each roll allows the cinnamon butter to seep deeply, but if preferred, a simple 'X' cut is easier and still flavorful.

→ Can I substitute the brown sugar?

Light brown sugar can be used instead of dark brown sugar without compromising the rich molasses flavor in the butter mixture.

→ How should the cream cheese frosting be stored?

Keep the frosting refrigerated if not using immediately and bring it to room temperature before spreading for an easier application.

→ Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls with cinnamon sugar and refrigerate for up to a day, then bake and frost before serving for fresh results.