If you’re looking for a delightfully easy and irresistibly tasty treat that brings warmth and comfort in every bite, this Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Using sweet, fluffy Hawaiian rolls as the base transforms traditional cinnamon rolls into something wonderfully soft and uniquely flavorful, all with a quick prep and a heavenly glaze that ties everything together. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these rolls are pure magic straight from the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is wonderfully simple, but each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of sweet, soft, and cinnamony goodness. From the buttery cinnamon spread that seeps into every roll to the creamy glaze that finishes it off, these components come together beautifully.
- Hawaiian rolls (12-oz package): These provide that signature soft, slightly sweet base that makes the recipe stand out.
- Butter (½ cup, softened): Adds rich creaminess and helps the cinnamon sugar mixture stick to the rolls.
- Brown sugar (½ cup): Brings a deep molasses sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon (1½ tablespoons): The star spice that infuses every bite with warmth and spice.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Essential for the smooth, sweet glaze that balances the cinnamon’s spice.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Lightens the glaze, making it creamy and easy to drizzle.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant note that elevates the glaze’s flavor.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350ºF. Having the oven at the right temperature ensures your rolls bake evenly, getting that perfect golden warmth in under 20 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Butter Spread
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Use a hand mixer to blend these together until it forms a smooth, fragrant spread that’s bursting with cinnamon-sweet goodness. This will be the heart of your rolls’ flavor.
Step 3: Slice Your Hawaiian Roll Loaf
Without pulling apart the individual rolls, carefully slice the entire loaf horizontally into two equal halves. Then place the bottom half in a well-sprayed 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure it’s evenly spread out. This will provide a sturdy, soft base for the cinnamon butter.
Step 4: Layer Cinnamon Butter and Pineapple Rolls
Spread about two-thirds of the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Next, place the top half of the loaf onto the butter-spread bottom layer, then generously spread the remaining cinnamon butter across the tops. This layering technique ensures every single bite is cozy and gooey.
Step 5: Bake Your Cinnamon Rolls
Pop the assembled rolls into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You want them to be warm with a slightly toasted top, allowing the buttery cinnamon mixture to melt and blend perfectly into the Hawaiian rolls.
Step 6: Whip Up the Glaze
While your rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and shiny. This glaze is the final touch that brings the whole recipe alive, so aim for a consistency that’s easy to drizzle but thick enough to coat the rolls beautifully.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Once the rolls come out of the oven, immediately drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls to melt slightly into every nook and cranny, making every bite irresistibly sweet and creamy.
How to Serve Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that plays off the soft rolls perfectly. For a pop of color and extra sweetness, try a dusting of freshly grated orange zest or even a few fresh berries on the side.
Side Dishes
Serve these cinnamon rolls alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk for a classic pairing. If you’re planning a brunch, fresh fruit salad or scrambled eggs balance the sweet rolls wonderfully, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at your next gathering, consider serving these rolls on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra glaze, nuts, and fresh fruit. Alternatively, cut them into smaller squares and arrange them in individual mini cupcake liners for a fun, grab-and-go style treat anyone can enjoy with ease.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep leftover rolls fresh, place them in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to three days when stored at room temperature, making them perfect for snacking later.
Freezing
Freeze any extra rolls before glazing by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag. This way they can be stored for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding fresh glaze.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300ºF for 10 minutes. Add a little fresh glaze or butter afterward to revive that just-baked freshness and gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
While regular dinner rolls will work, Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness and softness that really elevate the flavor and texture of this cinnamon roll recipe. For that signature taste, we recommend sticking with Hawaiian rolls.
Is it necessary to slice the rolls horizontally?
Yes, slicing the entire loaf horizontally without separating the rolls helps create the layered, gooey experience this recipe aims for. It’s part of what makes it so quick and easy, without the mess of rolling out dough.
Can I make the cinnamon butter mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cinnamon butter mixture a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bring it back to room temperature and mix briefly before spreading on the rolls.
What if I don’t have a hand mixer?
No worries! You can mix the cinnamon butter by hand with a sturdy spoon or spatula. Just take your time to combine everything thoroughly until it’s smooth and well blended.
How thick should the glaze be?
The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still runny enough to drizzle easily. Adjust by adding a little more milk if it’s too thick or powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so special about this Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe—it’s the kind of simple yet soul-satisfying treat you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether for family breakfasts, parties, or a cozy self-care moment, these rolls hit the perfect note of sweet, soft, and cinnamony every time. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen!
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Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls are a quick and easy twist on the classic cinnamon roll using soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls. Loaded with cinnamon-spiced butter and topped with a simple vanilla glaze, they make a perfect warm treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Rolls and Cinnamon Butter
- 1 (12-oz) package Hawaiian rolls
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1½ Tbsp ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 Tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to get it ready for baking the cinnamon rolls.
- Make Cinnamon Butter: In a small bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare Rolls: Without separating the Hawaiian rolls, slice the entire loaf horizontally into two halves. Place the bottom half of the rolls in a 9×13-inch baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
- Spread Cinnamon Butter: Spread about two-thirds of the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Then add the top half of the rolls back on and spread the remaining cinnamon butter over the tops of these rolls.
- Bake: Bake the assembled rolls in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until they are warmed through and the cinnamon butter is bubbly and toasty.
- Prepare Glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and ready to drizzle.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the rolls are done and still warm, drizzle the vanilla glaze evenly over the top. Serve these soft, sticky cinnamon rolls warm for best flavor.
Notes
- Be sure to slice the Hawaiian roll loaf carefully to keep the top and bottom halves intact.
- Use softened butter for easier mixing and better spreadability.
- You can adjust the cinnamon amount to suit your taste if you prefer more or less spice.
- The glaze hardens slightly as it cools; enjoy the rolls shortly after glazing for the best texture.
- This recipe serves about 12 rolls, perfect for sharing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
