Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
I still remember the morning I first made these Hawaiian roll cinnamon rolls. It was one of those sleepy Saturdays where you crave something indulgent but can’t be bothered to make scratch dough. I opened the fridge, spotted a pack of King’s Hawaiian rolls, and inspiration hit. Why not turn those sweet, buttery rolls into a quick version of our favorite cinnamon rolls?
What came out of the oven was pure magic—gooey, golden, slightly caramelized rolls that tasted like they took hours but came together in a flash. Since then, this has been my go-to when we need a fast but feel-good breakfast treat. They’re sweet, soft, and ridiculously easy. No yeast. No waiting. Just pure comfort in under 30 minutes.
Why This Recipe for Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls Is So Loved
Let me tell you—this recipe isn’t just quick, it’s next-level comforting.
So simple: No mixing dough or proofing. You just cut, mix, and bake.
Sweet and pillowy: The rolls are already soft, and that rich cinnamon butter soaks in perfectly.
My custom glaze? Silky smooth, and I give you two kinds to try.
Foolproof: It’s been tested on sleepy weekends, rushed holidays, and even “oops, I forgot the dessert” moments. Always works.
Crowd-tested: Every time I bring these to a brunch or serve them to overnight guests, they vanish in minutes.
If you’re also into creative cinnamon spins, I highly recommend our Cinnamon Roll Cookies or even a healthier twist like this Cinnamon Roll Protein Smoothie.
Ingredients (U.S. Customary & Metric)
1 pack King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls (12 rolls)
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
2 tablespoons (15g) ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Optional: 1/3 cup chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips
For the Glaze – Classic
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
For the Glaze – Cream Cheese
4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk
Splash of vanilla extract
Note: Use a good-quality butter—it’s the base of the flavor, and yes, it makes a huge difference.
Equipment You’ll Need
9×13 inch baking dish
Serrated knife
Mixing bowl
Whisk or hand mixer
Spoon or spatula
Oven-safe foil
How to Make the Best Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish.
2. Keep the rolls together and carefully slice the pack in half horizontally (like sandwich bread).
3. Mix the filling: Melt the butter, stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
4. Spread half of the cinnamon filling on the bottom half of the rolls.
5. Replace the top half and pour the remaining cinnamon mixture evenly over the top. Let it drip down the sides.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 15–18 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 4–5 minutes for a golden finish.
7. While baking, whip up your glaze of choice—classic or cream cheese. I always go for the cream cheese on holidays and the simple glaze for weekday treats.
8. Drizzle generously over warm rolls. Don’t skimp—they’re meant to be messy, sticky, and satisfying.
The PERFECT Icing for Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
Option 1: Classic Powdered Sugar Glaze
Light, smooth, and fast. Just whisk it up and pour it on.
Option 2: Cream Cheese Frosting
Rich and decadent, this one’s thicker and tangier—ideal for special occasions or if you like a frosting that holds its shape.
Sometimes, I add just a touch of maple syrup to the cream cheese version. That little hint of smokiness? Chef’s kiss.
Pro Tips for Irresistibly Gooey Results
Slice with a serrated knife to keep the rolls intact.
Don’t skimp on the filling—get it into every corner and crevice.
Use foil at first to trap steam and keep the rolls soft.
Let them rest 5 minutes before icing for perfect melt-in drizzles.
My go-to move? Swapping half the cinnamon for pumpkin spice in fall. Game changer.
You can also pair them with these savory Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls to round out a perfect breakfast table.
Customizations & Variations
These are incredibly versatile:
Add nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Spiced up: A pinch of cardamom or nutmeg deepens the flavor.
Add fruit: Raisins or diced apples blend beautifully with cinnamon.
Tropical: Use coconut rolls or ube-swirled Hawaiian rolls like these ube coconut rolls.
Chocolate lovers: Mini chips or Nutella drizzle take them over the top.
And if you’re craving more Hawaiian-inspired treats, check out our Hawaiian Pineapple Cake — it’s another crowd-pleaser.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate (covered) the night before. Bake straight from the fridge, adding 2-3 minutes to the time.
Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or in the fridge for 4–5 days.
Reheating: Microwave for 20 seconds or warm in a low oven.
Freezing:
Unbaked: Wrap tightly in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Baked: Freeze individual rolls. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any sweet rolls?
You can, but King’s Hawaiian gives the best results for that signature sweetness and soft texture.
What’s the best way to cut the rolls?
Use a serrated bread knife and hold the rolls together firmly while slicing.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can cut it down slightly in the filling or glaze, but keep enough to get that gooey caramel effect.
How long do these last?
They’re best fresh but still delicious for 2–3 days. Reheat to bring back the softness.
Can I add toppings?
Totally. Try crushed pecans, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of caramel.
Can I use store-bought icing?
Yes! A can of cream cheese or vanilla frosting melts beautifully over warm rolls.
Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls shine on lazy weekend mornings, holiday brunches, or as an unexpected dessert after a light dinner.
Serve them with:
Fresh fruit or citrus salad
Hot coffee, cold brew, or chai
Scrambled eggs or sausage to balance the sweetness
Hawaiian Roll Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 pack King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls 12 rolls
- 1/2 cup 113g unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup 100g light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons 15g ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Optional: 1/3 cup chopped pecans walnuts, or mini chocolate chips
Classic Glaze:
- 1 cup 120g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz 113g cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup 30g powdered sugar
- 1 –2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Without separating the rolls, slice the entire pack in half horizontally like sandwich buns. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
- Spread half the cinnamon mixture on the cut side of the bottom half of the rolls.
- Place the top half of the rolls back on, then pour the remaining cinnamon mixture over the top, letting it drip down the sides.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15–18 minutes. Uncover for the last 4–5 minutes to brown the tops.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the glaze of your choice by whisking all glaze ingredients until smooth.
- Once out of the oven, let rolls rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle generously with glaze and serve warm.
Notes
- Use a serrated knife to slice the rolls cleanly.
- For extra gooeyness, increase butter mixture slightly and drizzle some on the pan before layering.
- The cream cheese glaze is ideal for special occasions; use the classic for a quicker weekday treat.
- Make ahead by prepping the night before and refrigerating until ready to bake.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 11g
- Total Carbs: 34g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Net Carbs: 33.5g
So there you have it—your new favorite way to transform a humble pack of rolls into an ooey-gooey, crave-worthy masterpiece. These Hawaiian roll cinnamon rolls are quick, comforting, and guaranteed to bring smiles (and sticky fingers).
Tried them? Let me know how yours turned out in the comments below! Or better yet, snap a photo and tag us @TastyGoodRecipes on Instagram—we love seeing your creations.
