Few things in life are as indulgent and comforting as a warm, gooey cinnamon roll fresh from the oven. When you combine the pillowy softness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with the rich, creamy texture of sweetened cream cheese, and the warm spice of cinnamon butter, you get an irresistible treat. These King’s Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls bring a unique twist to the classic cinnamon roll by using sweet Hawaiian bread, making them extra soft and flavorful.

This recipe is quick and simple, requiring minimal preparation and baking time. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a cozy weekend brunch, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cinnamon rolls will surely become a family favorite.

Overview of the Recipe

These cream cheese-filled cinnamon rolls are unique because they don’t require traditional dough-making or rolling. Instead, King’s Hawaiian Rolls serve as the base, already providing a fluffy and slightly sweet foundation. The rolls are hollowed out and stuffed with a rich cream cheese filling, coated in buttery cinnamon sugar, and baked to golden perfection. Finally, a velvety frosting is spread on top, creating an ooey-gooey treat that melts in your mouth.

This recipe is:

• Beginner-friendly – No kneading or yeast proofing required.
• Fast – Ready in about 15 minutes.
• Perfect for any occasion – A great breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Brief History and Cultural Significance

Cinnamon rolls have a long and rich history, with roots tracing back to Sweden and Germany, where they are known as “kanelbulle” and “schnecken”, respectively. These spiced, sweet buns became especially popular in America in the 20th century, particularly in the Midwest, where they are often served with cream cheese frosting.

King’s Hawaiian Rolls, on the other hand, originated from a Hawaiian bakery in the 1950s, quickly becoming a household name for their soft, sweet, and slightly buttery texture. By merging these two beloved baked goods, this recipe elevates traditional cinnamon rolls into something even more decadent.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Cooling Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls

Essential Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools makes this recipe effortless. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing Bowls

• A medium bowl for mixing the cream cheese filling.
• Another bowl for preparing the cinnamon butter coating.

Piping Bag or Ziploc Bag

• Essential for neatly filling the Hawaiian rolls with the cream cheese mixture.
• If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a Ziploc bag with a small cut in the corner.

Baking Dish (9×9 inches)

• Holds the stuffed rolls snugly together, helping them bake evenly and keep their soft texture.

Small Spatula or Spoon

• Helps evenly spread the frosting on top once the rolls are baked.

Knife or Utensil Handle

• Used to poke holes into each roll for the filling.

Why Each Tool is Important

• Mixing Bowls keep ingredients separate and allow for easy preparation.
• A piping bag or Ziploc bag ensures even distribution of the filling without making a mess.
• A baking dish helps retain moisture while baking, ensuring a soft and fluffy texture.
• A spatula makes frosting application smooth and even.
• A knife or handle creates space inside the rolls for the filling without tearing them apart.

Preparation Tips

To ensure your cream cheese cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly, follow these expert tips:

For the Best Texture

• Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
• Do not overfill the rolls to prevent leaking while baking.

For the Best Cinnamon Flavor

• Use high-quality cinnamon for a rich and aromatic taste.
• Dark brown sugar provides a deeper caramel-like sweetness compared to light brown sugar.

For a Perfect Bake

• Do not overbake! These rolls only need 10 minutes—overbaking can dry them out.
• Let them rest for 5 minutes before frosting so the icing doesn’t melt too much.

Ingredients List 

For the Filling:

• 1 (12 oz) package King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Butter:

• ½ cup butter, melted
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

For the Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the rolls.

Step 2: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls

• Separate the King’s Hawaiian Rolls from each other.
• Using your finger or the handle of a spoon, poke a hole into the side of each roll.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
  • 4 oz softened cream cheese
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Mix until completely smooth, with no lumps.

Step 4: Fill the Rolls

• Transfer the cream cheese filling into a piping bag or Ziploc bag.
• Cut off one small corner of the bag.
• Pipe the filling generously into each Hawaiian roll.

Step 5: Arrange the Rolls in a Baking Dish

• Place the filled Hawaiian rolls into a 9×9 baking dish.
• Ensure they are snugly packed to prevent drying out.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Butter Coating

• In another mixing bowl, combine:
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• Stir until the mixture becomes a smooth, buttery paste.

Step 7: Coat and Bake

• Evenly pour the cinnamon butter mixture over the stuffed rolls.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

• While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine 4 oz softened cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, and ½ cup heavy whipping cream.
  • Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

• Once the cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, let them cool for 5 minutes.
• Spread the frosting evenly on top of the warm rolls.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Side Dish Recommendations

While King’s Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are a star on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can balance the sweetness and add variety to your meal. Here are eight perfect pairings that will take your cinnamon roll experience to the next level.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad

A light and refreshing fruit salad is the perfect contrast to the richness of cinnamon rolls. The natural sweetness and juicy texture of fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi cleanse the palate and prevent the meal from feeling too heavy.

How to Make It

• Combine chopped strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, mango, and kiwi in a bowl.
• Squeeze fresh orange juice over the top to enhance the natural flavors.
• Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh aroma.

2. Scrambled Eggs with Cheese

The savory creaminess of cheesy scrambled eggs is an ideal pairing for sweet cinnamon rolls. The fluffy eggs provide protein, which helps balance the sugar content of the dessert.

Quick Recipe

• Whisk 4 eggs with ¼ cup milk, salt, and pepper.
• Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until fluffy.
• Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy texture.

3. Maple-Glazed Bacon

Crispy bacon drizzled with maple syrup adds a sweet-and-savory contrast to the cinnamon rolls. The salty crunch of bacon cuts through the richness, making every bite satisfying.

Quick Recipe

• Lay bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
• Brush with maple syrup and bake for another 2 minutes until caramelized.

4. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Nuts

A serving of Greek yogurt topped with honey and crunchy nuts adds tanginess, protein, and texture to your meal. The creamy and slightly tart flavor of yogurt perfectly complements the sweetness of cinnamon rolls.

How to Serve

• Spoon plain Greek yogurt into a bowl.
• Drizzle with honey and sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts on top.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

5. Vanilla Latte or Iced Coffee

Pairing these sweet, buttery cinnamon rolls with a bold coffee balances the flavors beautifully. A vanilla latte or cold brew coffee provides a bitter contrast that enhances the overall experience.

Quick Iced Coffee Recipe

• Brew strong coffee and let it cool.
• Pour over ice and add a splash of vanilla syrup.
• Stir in cream or milk to taste.

6. Herb-Infused Scrambled Tofu (Vegan Option)

For a plant-based alternative, scrambled tofu with fresh herbs and a hint of turmeric makes a delicious protein-packed side dish.

How to Make It

• Sauté crumbled firm tofu with olive oil, garlic powder, and turmeric.
• Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley and chives.
• Season with salt and black pepper.

7. Apple Cinnamon Compote

A warm apple cinnamon compote is a perfect dipping sauce for your cinnamon rolls, adding even more autumn-inspired flavors.

How to Make It

• Simmer chopped apples, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon in a saucepan.
• Cook until the apples are soft and syrupy.
• Serve warm as a topping or side dip.

8. Classic Hot Chocolate

For an indulgent treat, pair your cinnamon rolls with a rich, velvety hot chocolate. The deep chocolate flavor complements the buttery, spiced rolls perfectly.

How to Make It

• Heat milk in a saucepan until warm.
• Stir in cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract.
• Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

While these cinnamon rolls are a treat, they also provide some nutritional benefits when consumed in moderation. Let’s break down the key nutrients and how they impact your body.

Calories & Macronutrients Per Roll

• Calories: ~250-300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~12g
• Sugar: ~20g

Key Nutrients in the Ingredients

Cream Cheese

• Provides healthy fats that help keep you full.
• Contains calcium for bone health.

Cinnamon

• Contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
• Supports blood sugar regulation.

Brown Sugar & Powdered Sugar

• Supplies quick energy but should be consumed in moderation.

Butter

• Adds richness but should be balanced with other nutritious foods.

Heavy Whipping Cream

• Contains healthy saturated fats and enhances the creamy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this recipe is easy to make, small mistakes can affect the final result. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Overfilling the Rolls

• What Happens: Too much cream cheese filling can cause the rolls to leak out while baking.
• Solution: Fill the rolls ¾ full to prevent overflow.

Mistake #2: Using Cold Cream Cheese

• What Happens: Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly, leading to lumpy filling.
• Solution: Always use room temperature cream cheese for a silky texture.

Mistake #3: Overbaking the Rolls

• What Happens: Overbaked rolls become dry and tough.
• Solution: Bake for exactly 10 minutes and check for light golden brown edges.

Mistake #4: Skipping the Cooling Time Before Frosting

• What Happens: If you spread frosting too soon, it melts completely into the rolls.
• Solution: Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes before adding frosting.

Mistake #5: Not Mixing the Cinnamon Butter Well

• What Happens: Uneven butter distribution leads to some parts being too sweet and others too dry.
• Solution: Stir the cinnamon butter thoroughly and evenly pour it over the rolls.

Mistake #6: Using Too Much Cinnamon

• What Happens: While cinnamon is delicious, too much can create a bitter, overpowering taste.
• Solution: Stick to 1 tablespoon of cinnamon for the best balance.

Mistake #7: Not Serving Warm

• What Happens: If eaten cold, the texture becomes dense rather than soft and gooey.
• Solution: Always serve warm for maximum enjoyment.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

How to Store Cinnamon Rolls

Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days)

• If you plan to enjoy the cinnamon rolls within 1-2 days, keep them at room temperature.
• Place them in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep them from drying out.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator Storage (Up to 5 Days)

• To keep the cinnamon rolls fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator.
• Place in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing other fridge odors.
• When refrigerated, the rolls may firm up slightly but can be easily softened when reheated.

Freezer Storage (Up to 3 Months)

• If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, freezing is the best option.
• Wrap each individual roll in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
• For best results, freeze without frosting, and add the frosting after reheating.

How to Reheat Cinnamon Rolls

Microwave Method (Quick & Easy)

• Place a cinnamon roll on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
• Microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm and soft.
• If reheating from frozen, microwave for 45-60 seconds in 10-second intervals, checking frequently.

Oven Method (Best for Large Batches)

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the rolls in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for 10 minutes (or 20 minutes if frozen).
• For extra softness, brush with melted butter before baking.

Air Fryer Method (Crispy Edges, Soft Center)

• Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
• Place cinnamon rolls in the basket without overcrowding.
• Heat for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently.
• This method gives the edges a slight crisp while keeping the inside soft.

FAQs About King’s Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls, fill them with cream cheese, and store them in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, take them out 30 minutes before baking to bring them to room temperature.

2. Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?

Yes! While King’s Hawaiian Rolls are ideal for their sweet and fluffy texture, you can substitute them with:

• Brioche rolls – Slightly richer and buttery.
• Dinner rolls – Less sweet but still soft.
• Parker House rolls – Soft and pillowy, like Hawaiian rolls.

3. What’s the Best Way to Pipe the Filling?

For the smoothest experience:

• Use a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid clogging the bag.
• Pipe the filling evenly into each roll, filling about ¾ full to prevent overflowing.

4. How Do I Make the Frosting Thicker or Thinner?

• If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.
• If the frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.

5. Can I Add Nuts or Other Toppings?

Absolutely! Try these delicious add-ins:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts – Sprinkle on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
• Caramel drizzle – Adds extra richness.
• Coconut flakes – Pairs well with the tropical sweetness of Hawaiian rolls.
• Chocolate chips – For a fun twist, mix them into the cream cheese filling.

6. How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute:

• Vegan cream cheese for regular cream cheese.
• Coconut milk or almond milk for heavy cream.
• Plant-based butter for regular butter.

7. Can I Use a Different Type of Sweetener?

Yes! Instead of brown sugar and powdered sugar, you can use:

• Coconut sugar – A natural alternative with a hint of caramel flavor.
• Maple syrup or honey – Can be used in the filling or frosting.
• Stevia or monk fruit sweetener – A low-carb, keto-friendly option.

8. How Do I Prevent the Rolls from Getting Soggy?

If your rolls turn out too wet, try these tips:

• Don’t overfill with frosting—apply just enough to coat the top.
• Let them cool for 5 minutes before adding frosting so it doesn’t melt into the rolls.
• Bake on the middle rack for even heat distribution.

9. Can I Double the Recipe for a Crowd?

Yes! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish (9×13-inch pan) to accommodate more rolls.

10. What Can I Serve These Rolls With?

For a well-rounded meal, serve them with:

• Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance.
• Scrambled eggs or bacon for protein.
• A hot latte or iced coffee for the perfect pairing.

Final Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

Tip 1: Use High-Quality Ingredients

The best cinnamon rolls come from using high-quality butter, fresh cream cheese, and real vanilla extract. Don’t skimp on ingredients for the richest flavor!

Tip 2: Customize the Filling

While the classic cream cheese filling is delicious, try mixing in:

• Pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired version.
• Lemon zest for a fresh citrus kick.
• Cocoa powder for a chocolatey touch.

Tip 3: Add a Streusel Topping

For an extra crunchy twist, mix together:

• ¼ cup flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Sprinkle over the rolls before baking.

Tip 4: Make a Drizzle Instead of Frosting

If you prefer a lighter glaze instead of thick frosting, mix:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Drizzle over the rolls for a lighter, glossy finish.

Tip 5: Experiment with Different Frostings

For a fun variation, try:

• Maple Cream Cheese Frosting – Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the frosting.
• Caramel Frosting – Replace heavy cream with dulce de leche for a caramel twist.
• Cinnamon Honey Butter – Whip together butter, honey, and cinnamon for a spiced topping.

Tip 6: Make Mini Cinnamon Rolls for Parties

For bite-sized cinnamon rolls, use mini Hawaiian rolls and follow the same process. These make great finger foods for parties or brunch gatherings!

Conclusion

These King’s Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are soft, gooey, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, dessert, or a holiday gathering, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With their pillowy texture, sweet cinnamon butter, and creamy filling, they take classic cinnamon rolls to a whole new level.

By following these tips for storage, reheating, and customization, you can enjoy these treats whenever you crave them. So go ahead—gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the ultimate cinnamon roll experience!

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