Introduction
King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls combine the beloved sweet, fluffy texture of King’s Hawaiian rolls with the warm, comforting taste of cinnamon and brown sugar. These rolls offer a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, making them a perfect breakfast treat, dessert, or special occasion indulgence.
Origin and Cultural Significance
King’s Hawaiian bread originated in Hilo, Hawaii, in the 1950s, created by Robert Taira. The bread’s signature sweetness comes from a traditional Portuguese sweet bread recipe, which was adapted with local Hawaiian flavors. Over time, King’s Hawaiian bread has become a household favorite across the U.S., known for its soft, slightly sweet texture. Incorporating this bread into cinnamon rolls merges Hawaiian tradition with the comforting classic of cinnamon pastries, creating a unique fusion dish.
Ingredients Quantity
Dough:
- 1 package (12 rolls) King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp milk (if needed for consistency)
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness
- A pinch of nutmeg for extra spice
- Drizzle of caramel sauce for indulgence
Tips for Success
- Use soft rolls: King’s Hawaiian rolls are naturally soft; avoid overhandling to maintain their fluffiness.
- Butter generously: This ensures a gooey, caramelized texture as the cinnamon-sugar mixture bakes.
- Heavy cream trick: Pouring heavy cream over the rolls before baking keeps them moist and rich.
- Warm the frosting slightly: A slightly warm frosting spreads easier and melts into the rolls beautifully.
- Allow resting time: Let the cinnamon rolls sit for a few minutes after baking to soak up all the flavors.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the filling: In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
- Slice the rolls: Without separating them, slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls horizontally.
- Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon mixture over the bottom half of the rolls.
- Reassemble: Place the top half back on and gently press down.
- Pour heavy cream: Drizzle heavy cream over the assembled rolls.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
- Prepare frosting: Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Frost and serve: Spread frosting over warm rolls and enjoy!
Description
King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls are irresistibly soft, with layers of caramelized cinnamon sugar and a rich, creamy frosting. The rolls maintain their signature fluffy texture while absorbing the buttery, sweet flavors, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
- Calories: ~280
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls elevate the classic cinnamon roll with a tropical twist, offering an irresistible balance of sweetness and warmth. Whether enjoyed as a morning treat or a decadent dessert, they are sure to please.
Recommendation
For the best experience, pair these cinnamon rolls with a hot cup of coffee, a chai latte, or a glass of milk. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently for a fresh-baked taste.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While indulgent, these cinnamon rolls can be modified for a healthier twist. Consider using whole wheat Hawaiian rolls, reducing the sugar slightly, or substituting the frosting with a lighter glaze made from Greek yogurt and honey. Enjoying these treats in moderation ensures you can savor their deliciousness while maintaining balance in your diet.