Name: Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 6 large Hawaiian sweet rolls, cubed; 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple, drained; 1/2 cup shredded coconut; 4 eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp dark rum; 1/4 tsp salt

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If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s ultra-comforting, easy to pull together, and irresistibly decadent, Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding is exactly what you need! Imagine pillowy-soft Hawaiian rolls soaking up a rich vanilla custard, getting baked until golden and crisp on top but lusciously tender underneath, and then finished with a flurry of your favorite toppings. This tropical twist on the classic bread pudding will win over friends and family in a single bite, especially with its sweet, buttery essence and hints of coconut. Trust me — you’ll want to keep this recipe close for every gathering or whenever your sweet tooth strikes.

Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe celebrates just a handful of simple yet impactful ingredients, turning each one into a show-stopping dessert. Every element not only adds flavor or creaminess, but also helps create that unforgettable texture and color we crave in Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding.

Hawaiian rolls: Their slightly sweet, fluffy texture is the star and soaks up the custard beautifully.
Whole milk: Adds creaminess to the custard, ensuring it’s rich without being too heavy.
Heavy cream: Gives the pudding its indulgent, silky mouthfeel.
Large eggs: The backbone of any custard, they bind everything and give the pudding structure.
Granulated sugar: Brings just the right amount of sweetness to balance the rolls.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the pudding with warm, aromatic notes.
Salt: A pinch is key to brightening up all the flavors.
Cinnamon (optional): Adds a lovely warmth for anyone who loves a spiced note.
Butter: Brushed over the top for extra golden color and a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
Shredded coconut (optional): Sprinkled on top for tropical flair and a toasty finish.

How to Make Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding

Step 1: Prep the Rolls

Start by tearing the Hawaiian rolls into rough, bite-sized pieces. Don’t overthink it — the rustic chunks soak up the custard better than any perfectly cubed bread ever could. Spread the pieces across a buttered baking dish, making sure to fill the corners and build a fluffy, even layer. Let the rolls sit out for about 15 minutes, which helps them dry out a touch and get extra thirsty for the custard.

Step 2: Make the Custard Base

Crack your eggs into a large mixing bowl and whisk them until well blended. Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, whole milk, and heavy cream, and whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy. If you’re a fan of cozy flavors, now’s the time to stir in a dash of cinnamon. This custard begins as a simple blend but transforms into a decadent sauce for the Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding as soon as it starts baking.

Step 3: Soak the Rolls

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the torn Hawaiian rolls, making sure to douse every nook and cranny. Gently press the rolls into the custard so each piece is well soaked but not entirely submerged. Let the whole thing sit for at least 20 minutes (or up to an hour if you have time), allowing the magic to happen as the bread soaks in all the flavors.

Step 4: Finish and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the soaking rolls generously with melted butter for that signature golden finish. If using, sprinkle shredded coconut over everything for a pretty, toasty crunch. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the pudding is puffed, golden brown, and just set in the center. The aroma will tell you it’s nearly there before the timer does!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding cool for at least 10 minutes so it sets up a bit. Scoop out generous portions while still warm — the contrast between the soft center and the crispy top is pure bliss. Now comes the fun part: add any garnishes or drizzles you crave!

How to Serve Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding

Garnishes

A warm slice of Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding is amazing as-is, but garnishes take it straight over the top. Try a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a handful of toasted nuts. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar brighten up each serving, while a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce brings even more decadence. Don’t forget a few extra flakes of toasted coconut for a finishing touch!

Side Dishes

This pudding is such a showstopper that it rarely needs much else, but a fruit salad featuring pineapple, mango, and kiwi complements those tropical undertones perfectly. Light and refreshing drinks like iced tea with a splash of coconut milk or a frothy latte make this dessert feel like a special occasion any day of the week.

Creative Ways to Present

Give Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding a fun twist for special occasions! Layer scoops in small mason jars for a picnic-ready treat, or bake in individual ramekins for dinner parties. You can even cut the baked pudding into cubes, skewer them with fresh fruit, and give them a quick toast under the broiler for a playful party snack. However you present it, every bite promises tropical comfort food at its best.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding keeps surprisingly well! Simply let the pan cool to room temperature, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you’ve garnished with fresh fruit or whipped cream, keep those separate and add just before serving.

Freezing

If you need to make it further ahead, Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding freezes nicely. Wrap fully cooled pudding in foil and place in a freezer bag or container. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

For a fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until piping hot. Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to bring back the pudding’s soft, custardy texture.

FAQs

Can I use stale or leftover Hawaiian rolls?

Absolutely! In fact, slightly stale rolls are perfect since they soak up more custard and result in a firmer, less soggy pudding. Just break them into pieces as usual and proceed with the recipe.

Is it possible to make Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap in coconut milk or your favorite non-dairy alternatives for the milk and cream, and use plant-based butter. Just note that this may give the pudding a slightly different, but still delicious, flavor profile.

Can I prepare Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding in advance?

Definitely! You can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature while the oven preheats, and then bake as directed.

What mix-ins work well with this pudding?

Feel free to let your creativity shine! A handful of chocolate chips, diced mango, dried pineapple, or macadamia nuts stirred in before baking turn this pudding into something extra special. Just make sure to keep portions modest so the custard still soaks through evenly.

How do I know when Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding is done baking?

The pudding should be puffed and golden with a slight jiggle at the center, but not liquidy. A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean. The aroma will also be sweet, buttery, and absolutely irresistible!

Final Thoughts

Warm, nostalgic, and just exotic enough to spark conversation, Sweet Hawaiian Roll Pudding is one of those recipes you’ll reach for time and time again. I promise, one bite is all it takes to see why it’s a household favorite. Gather your ingredients, turn on some island tunes, and treat your loved ones (and yourself!) to this delectable dessert. Happy baking, and let me know how your pudding adventure turns out!