There’s something magical about the sweet aroma of cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven. Our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls recipe takes this classic comfort treat to a whole new level by adding a tropical twist. Infused with pineapple and a hint of coconut, these rolls bring a burst of island flavor that makes breakfast feel like a vacation.
We love how the soft, fluffy dough perfectly balances the rich cinnamon filling and the subtle sweetness from the pineapple. Topped with a creamy glaze, these rolls are irresistible and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just craving a special treat, our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls, we need a carefully balanced set of ingredients that bring together soft dough, tropical sweetness, and a luscious glaze. Each component works in harmony to deliver a truly memorable treat.
Dough Ingredients
Our fluffy dough is the foundation of these Hawaiian cinnamon rolls. To achieve the ideal texture and flavor, we use:
- 3 1/4 cups (410g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup (180ml) warm whole milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
Filling Ingredients
Our tropical twist comes alive with the rich cinnamon filling enhanced by sweet pineapple and coconut. The filling blends spice with island flavors beautifully:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar (packed)
- 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained well)
- 1/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut
Glaze Ingredients
The glaze adds a creamy finish that complements the cinnamon and tropical notes perfectly. To prepare it, we use:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (120g) |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz (113g), softened |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp (28g), softened |
| Whole milk | 2 tbsp (30ml) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
We prioritize fresh, quality ingredients throughout to ensure our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls are as decadent as they are delightful.
Equipment Needed
To create our boldly flavorful Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls, having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process and perfect results every time. Here’s what we need to gather before starting:
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the dough ingredients gently and evenly without mess.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurement keeps the dough and filling balanced.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook (optional): Speeds up kneading for a soft and elastic dough, but kneading by hand also works well.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling the dough flat to an even thickness.
- Sharp Knife or Bench Scraper: For slicing the dough into perfect rolls quickly and cleanly.
- 9×13 Inch Baking Pan: This size holds all the rolls comfortably for baking, helping them rise evenly.
- Plastic Wrap or Clean Kitchen Towel: To cover dough during rising, keeping it warm and moist.
- Small Mixing Bowl: For blending the cream cheese glaze ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula or Spoon: Useful for spreading butter, filling, and glaze evenly onto the dough and baked rolls.
- Cooling Rack: Allows rolls to cool slightly while preventing sogginess on the bottom.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Mixing dough components |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Stand Mixer with Dough Hook | Efficient kneading of dough (optional) |
| Rolling Pin | Flattening dough |
| Sharp Knife or Bench Scraper | Cutting dough into rolls |
| 9×13 Inch Baking Pan | Baking rolls evenly |
| Plastic Wrap/Kitchen Towel | Covering dough for proper rising |
| Small Mixing Bowl | Mixing glaze ingredients |
| Spatula or Spoon | Spreading butter, filling, and glaze |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling baked rolls without sogginess |
Let’s prepare these tools ahead so we can focus on the aromatic swirl of cinnamon, pineapple, and coconut in our delightful Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls. Having everything organized will keep us on track and help us bake these irresistible rolls with ease.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls in advance is a smart way to enjoy fresh, tropical sweetness without the last-minute rush. Here are our step-by-step Make-Ahead Tips to ensure the dough, filling, and glazing process fits smoothly into your schedule.
Chill the Dough Overnight
- After kneading the dough to a soft, elastic texture, place it in a lightly oiled bowl.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
- Refrigerate the dough for 8 to 12 hours.
- Chilling slows the yeast activity, creating deeper flavor while making the dough easier to handle.
Shape and Proof Later
- Remove the chilled dough and let it warm at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften slightly.
- Roll out the dough and spread the tropical filling of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut evenly.
- Roll up the dough and cut into even slices.
- Place rolls in the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Cover loosely and refrigerate again if baking the next day, or proof immediately at room temperature for 45 to 60 minutes until doubled in size.
Bake Fresh When Ready
- If the rolls were refrigerated after shaping, preheat the oven and allow the rolls to come to room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.
- Bake at the specified temperature until golden brown and cooked through.
- While still warm, spread the luscious cream cheese glaze for optimal melting and flavor combination.
| Step | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerate dough | 8-12 hours overnight | Enhances flavor development and easier rolling |
| Warm dough before rolling | 30 minutes at room temp | Softens the dough for easier handling |
| Refrigerate shaped rolls | Optional, up to 12 hours before baking | Allows flexible timing; proof before baking if refrigerated |
| Room temp proofing | 45-60 minutes | Required if skipping refrigeration before baking |
| Warm rolls before baking | 20 minutes if refrigerated after shaping | Helps achieve even baking |
“Properly refrigerating the dough and rolls lets us manage time effortlessly without sacrificing the fluffy texture and rich tropical flavor that make these cinnamon rolls special.”
Following these Make-Ahead Tips ensures our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls maintain their soft crumb and luscious filling even when prepared in stages. This flexibility adds ease without compromising taste.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create soft, fluffy Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls bursting with tropical flavors. We guide you through each stage for perfect results every time.
Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Warm ¾ cup milk to about 110°F (warm to the touch but not hot).
- Add the warm milk to the dry ingredients, then stir in ⅓ cup melted butter and 2 large eggs, beaten.
- Mix until the dough begins to come together. Gradually add about 1 cup additional flour as needed, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for the first rise.
Making the Filling
- In a small bowl, combine ½ cup softened butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon.
- Stir until creamy and well blended.
- Fold in ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained thoroughly, and ½ cup shredded coconut to add that signature Hawaiian twist.
- Mix gently to distribute the pineapple and coconut evenly throughout the cinnamon mixture.
Assembling the Rolls
- On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 15×9-inch rectangle.
- Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
- Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the log into 12 equal rolls, about 1 ½ inches thick.
First Rise
Place the cut rolls into a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking pan, spaced evenly but not too tight.
Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours or until doubled in size.
| Rising Stage | Duration | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Rise | 1 – 1 ½ hours | Warm, draft-free | Until doubled in size |
Shaping the Cinnamon Rolls
After the first rise, gently press down on the rolls to release excess air if needed. This ensures a tender crumb.
This step is important for shaping but do not overwork the dough to maintain fluffiness.
Second Rise
Cover the pan again and let rolls rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
This second rise creates the soft, airy texture we love in Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls.
| Rising Stage | Duration | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Second Rise | 30 minutes | Rolls become puffy and soft |
Baking the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls on the middle rack for 25-30 minutes.
- Watch for a golden brown top and a cooked-through center.
- Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes before glazing.
By following these precise steps, we achieve the ideal balance of softness, tropical flavor, and cinnamon sweetness essential to our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls.
Glazing and Serving
Finishing our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with a luscious glaze adds the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Here’s how we prepare, apply, and serve this tropical treat to highlight every irresistible flavor.
Preparing the Glaze
To create a silky smooth glaze that complements the soft rolls and tropical filling, we combine:
- 4 oz softened cream cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, blending well after each addition.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until the glaze is smooth and spreadable.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker texture.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | Softened |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup | Softened |
| Powdered sugar | 1 1/2 cups | Sifted |
| Whole milk | 2 tbsp | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Applying the Glaze
We apply the glaze while the rolls are warm but not piping hot to ensure it melts perfectly without sliding off.
Step-by-step:
- Let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes after baking to set slightly.
- Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to generously spread the cream cheese glaze over all the rolls.
- If desired, drizzle extra glaze lightly for a decorative touch.
- Allow a few minutes for the glaze to set and slightly soak into the rolls, enhancing the flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls shine when served warm and fresh. Here are some ideas to elevate the experience:
- Pair with a hot cup of Kona coffee or tropical fruit tea to heighten the Hawaiian vibe.
- Serve on a pretty platter garnished with toasted shredded coconut and fresh pineapple chunks for visual appeal.
- Offer alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad for a balanced brunch.
- Wrap leftovers tightly and reheat gently to enjoy the tropical sweetness any time.
With this glaze and serving style, every bite bursts with cinnamon-spiced, coconut-pineapple goodness wrapped in a creamy finish—truly a tropical delight worth savoring.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls fresh and flavorful, proper storage and reheating are essential. Here are our top tips to ensure every bite remains soft, moist, and bursting with tropical goodness.
Storing Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls
- Room Temperature:
Store the rolls in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration at this stage to maintain the dough’s softness.
- Refrigeration:
If you need to keep the rolls longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. The rolls may firm up slightly but will still retain flavor.
- Freezing:
For longer storage, freeze the rolls either before or after baking. Wrap individually or place them in a freezer-safe container. They will maintain their best quality for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container or plastic wrap | 2 days | Keeps rolls soft without drying |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container or foil wrap | 5 days | Rolls may firm up slightly |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container or wraps | 3 months | Wrap individually for best results |
Reheating Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls
For the perfect warm and gooey texture we love, follow these simple reheating steps:
- Microwave Method:
Place a cinnamon roll on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it loosely with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm and soft. Avoid over-heating to prevent dryness.
- Oven Method:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the rolls in foil to lock in moisture. Heat for 10-15 minutes. For extra softness, add a small oven-safe dish with water in the oven to create steam.
- Toaster Oven:
Heat at 325°F (160°C) wrapped in foil for 8-10 minutes. This method crisps the edges slightly while keeping the inside tender.
Tips to Retain Freshness
- Always cover the rolls while storing to prevent drying.
- To restore softness, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rolls before reheating.
- Avoid overheating to preserve the delicate balance of pineapple, cinnamon, and coconut flavors.
“Proper storage and gentle reheating keep our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls tasting as fresh and tropical as the moment they came out of the oven.”
By following these storage and reheating strategies, we can enjoy our Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls anytime without sacrificing their delicious texture and flavor.
Conclusion
These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls bring a unique tropical twist to a classic favorite, making every bite a delightful experience. With their soft texture and rich flavors, they’re perfect for sharing or treating yourself to something special.
By following the recipe and tips we’ve shared, you’ll enjoy a seamless baking process and consistently delicious results. Whether for brunch, dessert, or a cozy morning, these rolls are sure to brighten any occasion and become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls different from traditional cinnamon rolls?
Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls include tropical ingredients like pineapple and coconut, adding a sweet and tangy twist to the classic cinnamon and sugar filling.
What ingredients are used in the dough for Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls?
The dough includes all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, salt, warm milk, melted butter, and eggs for a soft and fluffy texture.
How do you prepare the filling for these rolls?
The filling combines softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut for a rich, tropical flavor.
What is in the glaze for the cinnamon rolls?
The creamy glaze is made from powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, whole milk, and vanilla extract for a smooth, sweet finish.
Can I make Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can chill the dough overnight and shape the rolls the next day, then refrigerate or proof them before baking for better flavor and ease.
What equipment do I need to make these cinnamon rolls?
Basic tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, 9×13 inch baking pan, spatula, and a cooling rack; a stand mixer is optional.
How long should the rolls rise before baking?
Allow the rolls to rise until doubled in size, typically 1 to 2 hours at room temperature, for fluffy and tender results.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
What is the best way to reheat Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls?
Reheat gently in a microwave, oven, or toaster oven to restore softness and moisture without drying them out.
What are some serving suggestions for these rolls?
Serve with Kona coffee or tropical fruit tea, garnish with toasted coconut and fresh pineapple, or pair with fresh berries and fruit salad.