When you want a cinnamon roll that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Using the irresistibly soft and sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls as a base, this recipe transforms them into a gooey, cinnamon-sugar-laced treat topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, perfect for any morning or dessert occasion. The beauty lies in its simplicity and incredible flavor harmony that tastes like it took hours to make but comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you only need a handful of everyday ingredients that work together perfectly to create the most tender, flavorful cinnamon rolls you can imagine. Each component plays a key role—from the buttery richness to the sweet cinnamon filling and the creamy, dreamy frosting.
- King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls: These soft, fluffy rolls add natural sweetness and a tender texture making the perfect base.
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp softened): Provides richness in the filling ensuring everything melts into gooey goodness.
- Brown sugar (1/3 cup packed): Adds deep molasses notes and helps caramelize the cinnamon filling beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp): The star spice, delivering that warm, fragrant essence we all crave.
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp, optional): A subtle piping of spice that enhances the cinnamon without overpowering it.
- Cream cheese (4 oz softened): Key for a tangy, rich frosting that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp softened for frosting): Adds smoothness and body to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Creates a silky, sweet icing that clings beautifully to the rolls.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 tsp): Gives the frosting a warm, aromatic depth.
- Milk (1–2 tbsp): Adjusts the frosting to the perfect spreading consistency.
How to Make King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, take that beautiful package of King’s Hawaiian rolls and slice them horizontally all together, creating a top and bottom half without separating the individual rolls. Place the bottom half into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish so they’re ready to be layered with the cinnamon filling.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg until you get a smooth, spreadable paste. This filling is what gives the rolls their addictive warm spice and caramelized richness. Spread it evenly over the bottom half of the rolls, making sure every bite gets that perfect swirl of flavor.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Once the cinnamon mixture is spread, place the top half of the savory-sweet rolls back on gently, pressing slightly so the filling nestles in between. Slide your dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and you see the filling bubbling slightly—a surefire sign of sticky, melt-in-your-mouth joy.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
While those rolls work their magic in the oven, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable. This luscious icing is what turns an already fantastic treat into pure comfort food bliss.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes—just enough to be warm but not so hot that the frosting melts away completely. Then, spread that cream cheese frosting generously over the top of the rolls. Serve immediately to enjoy the most heavenly combination of soft, sweet, spiced rolls with creamy frosting that melts in your mouth.
How to Serve King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cream cheese frosting for a delightful crunch. If you want to go a step further, a light drizzle of caramel sauce can add an indulgent finish that complements the cinnamon notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pairing these cinnamon rolls with a fresh fruit salad or a simple berry compote brightens the meal and balances the sweetness, making it feel a bit lighter while keeping each bite vibrant and fresh. A cup of rich coffee or chai tea completes the experience with warm, cozy vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve these rolls on a beautiful wooden board garnished with fresh mint leaves and seasonal fruits for an eye-catching centerpiece. You can also slice them into individual rolls after frosting and place each on delicate dessert plates for personal servings that feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cinnamon rolls maintain their soft texture best when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re wonderful enjoyed the next day slightly warmed or at room temperature, retaining that fresh-baked goodness.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, assembled but unbaked rolls can be refrigerated overnight or frozen before baking. To freeze, wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as directed for a fresh-from-the-oven experience anytime.
Reheating
To bring out the best flavors and texture in leftover rolls, warm them gently in a microwave for 20–30 seconds or heat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Add a quick spread of extra cream cheese frosting if desired and enjoy a treat that tastes just as magical the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls?
While you can substitute other sweet rolls, King’s Hawaiian rolls have a unique honeyed sweetness and soft texture that really shine in this recipe. Using them ensures the perfect balance of softness and flavor.
Is it necessary to slice the rolls horizontally as one block?
Yes, slicing the entire block horizontally keeps the cinnamon filling evenly distributed and allows the layers to meld perfectly during baking. It’s part of what makes this recipe so effortless and cohesive.
Can I make the cinnamon rolls vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting. While the rolls themselves rely on the King’s Hawaiian variety, making the frosting vegan-friendly is a great place to start.
How far in advance can I assemble these rolls before baking?
You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. When ready to bake, just slide them directly from the fridge into the preheated oven and bake as usual, adding convenience to your busy mornings.
Can I add nuts or fruit to the filling?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even raisins added to the cinnamon filling bring extra texture and flavor. Just sprinkle them evenly over the butter and sugar paste before topping with the roll halves for a personalized twist.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cinnamon roll recipe that’s quick, ridiculously tasty, and downright comforting, you’ll want to try this King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe as soon as possible. It’s the kind of easy, soulful baking that makes mornings or anytime moments extra special. Once you taste how the sweet rolls transform into a sticky, spice-kissed delight crowned with creamy frosting, this will definitely become a favorite in your recipe collection. Happy baking and even happier eating!
