Indulge in the irresistible delight of King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls – an unbelievably easy recipe for gooey, homemade cinnamon rolls featuring a rich, buttery brown sugar filling and a luscious, scratch-made cream cheese frosting. This simple yet spectacular dessert or breakfast treat promises bakery-quality results with minimal effort, making it a new favorite for busy mornings or sweet cravings.
Effortless King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls: Your 20-Minute Delight
Prepare to revolutionize your cinnamon roll game! After experiencing the sheer simplicity and incredible flavor of these King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls, you might find yourself questioning any other method. They are truly the easiest gooey cinnamon rolls you’ll ever bake, transforming beloved Hawaiian sweet rolls into a decadent treat in just about 20 minutes. Forget the laborious process of traditional cinnamon rolls – no waiting for dough to rise, no messy kneading, and no tedious rolling out. This recipe is a game-changer, designed for maximum deliciousness with minimum fuss.
The secret lies in starting with pre-made King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. Their unique tender texture and subtly sweet flavor provide the perfect foundation, absorbing the buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture beautifully to create that signature gooey center we all adore. Paired with a dreamy, homemade cream cheese frosting that comes together in minutes, these rolls offer an unparalleled homemade taste without the extensive time commitment. Whether it’s for a special brunch, a quick weekend breakfast, or an unexpected dessert, these cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions About King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls
Curious about making these easy cinnamon rolls even better? Here are some common questions and detailed answers to help you perfect your batch and even experiment with delightful variations.
How can I make these cinnamon rolls look more traditional?
To achieve the classic spiral look of traditional cinnamon rolls, we recommend cutting a spiral into each Hawaiian roll before baking. This simple technique isn’t just for aesthetics; it also allows the rich butter and brown sugar mixture to penetrate deeper into the roll, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor and gooiness. Start at the center of each roll and carefully cut in a circular motion outwards until you reach the edge. This creates channels for the filling to seep into, resulting in a more evenly flavored and visually appealing cinnamon roll. While this step is easy, it’s optional – the rolls will still be incredibly delicious even without the spiral cuts!
Are there other ways to cut the King’s Hawaiian rolls?
Absolutely! While the spiral cut yields a traditional appearance, you have other fantastic options for preparing your rolls.
- Horizontal Cut: Slice each roll in half horizontally, like you would a burger bun. Pour half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the bottom halves, then place the tops back on and pour the remaining mixture over them. This method creates two layers of gooey goodness within each roll.
- ‘X’ or Slit Cut: For a simpler approach, make a shallow ‘X’ cut or several small slits on the top of each roll. This allows the butter and sugar mixture to pool and soak into the bread, creating pockets of sticky sweetness. This is a great option if you’re in an extra hurry or prefer a less intricate preparation.
How can I customize these cinnamon rolls with different flavors?
These King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls serve as an excellent base for various flavor experiments. The possibilities are endless!
- Pecan Rolls: For a nutty crunch, stir finely chopped pecans into the butter and brown sugar mixture before pouring it over the rolls.
- Maple Cinnamon Rolls: Add a teaspoon of maple extract to your cream cheese frosting and drizzle a bit of pure maple syrup over the baked rolls before frosting them for an autumn-inspired twist.
- Orange Zest Rolls: Incorporate some fresh orange zest into both the cinnamon-sugar filling and the cream cheese frosting for a bright, citrusy note that beautifully complements the sweetness.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with other warm spices! A pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a hint of allspice can add depth to your cinnamon mixture.
- Chocolate Swirl: After spreading the cinnamon-sugar mixture, sprinkle some mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate sauce into the cuts before baking.
What other frosting or topping options can I use?
The homemade cream cheese frosting is divine, but if you’re looking for even quicker solutions or different flavor profiles, here are a few ideas:
- Store-Bought Frosting: To save even more time, a container of pre-made cream cheese frosting or classic buttercream frosting works wonderfully. Simply warm it slightly for easier spreading.
- Simple Glaze: A basic powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a touch of milk or water) offers a lighter, sweet finish. Add a splash of vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
- Caramel Drizzle: For an extra indulgent treat, top your frosted cinnamon rolls with a generous drizzle of warm caramel sauce.
- The “Sugar Crunchies”: Don’t forget the delightful sugary bits left on the parchment paper after baking! These caramelized sugar crystals are incredibly delicious. Sprinkle them generously over your rolls before or after frosting for an added textural element and burst of concentrated sweetness. They add a professional touch and enhance the overall experience.
Are there any additional tips to speed up the preparation?
This recipe is already designed for speed, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish, but a few tricks can shave off an extra minute or two:
- Warm Rolls in Packaging: Did you know you can gently warm King’s Hawaiian Rolls in their original paper tray packaging? This can make them even softer and more pliable for cutting and absorbing the butter mixture. Just be sure to remove any plastic wrap first and place them on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips.
- Softening Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free frosting quickly. If you forget, refer to quick softening tips online (e.g., microwave butter in short bursts, use a warm water bath for cream cheese).
- Pre-measure Ingredients: Having your butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, powdered sugar, and cream measured out before you start will streamline the process significantly.
While these tips can marginally reduce your prep time, remember that the recipe is inherently fast, making it perfect for last-minute cravings!
How long do King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls stay fresh?
These cinnamon rolls are undoubtedly at their absolute best when enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven. The gooey texture and warm aroma are simply irresistible. However, any leftover Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls can be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To revive their fresh-baked goodness, warm them briefly in the microwave for 10-20 seconds before serving. This will bring back some of their delightful gooeyness and tender texture.
Essential Ingredients for Your Easy Cinnamon Rolls
Crafting these delectable King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls requires just a handful of simple ingredients, readily available at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward nature, proving that you don’t need exotic items to create something extraordinary.
For the Cinnamon Roll Base:
- Original King’s Hawaiian Rolls: A 12-count package of these iconic sweet rolls is the star of our show. While the King’s Hawaiian brand offers unparalleled flavor and texture, don’t hesitate to use a favorite store brand or another variety of sweet dinner rolls if preferred. The key is a soft, slightly sweet foundation.
- Unsalted Butter: You’ll need 6 tablespoons for the filling. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, which is ideal for baking. If only salted butter is on hand, it will work perfectly fine – the small amount of salt won’t significantly alter the flavor profile.
- Dark Brown Sugar: Approximately ⅔ cup is needed for the rich, caramelized filling. Dark brown sugar provides a deeper molasses flavor and a moister texture compared to light brown sugar. However, light brown sugar can be substituted if that’s what you have, yielding a slightly milder but still delicious result.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 ½ teaspoons of this warm spice are essential for that classic cinnamon roll aroma and taste. Ensure your cinnamon is fresh for the best flavor impact.
For the Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces (or half a block) of cream cheese, softened to room temperature. Softened cream cheese is crucial for achieving a smooth, lump-free frosting. If you forgot to take it out in advance, quick tips for softening cream cheese rapidly can be found online.
- Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons, also softened to room temperature. Like the cream cheese, softened butter is key to a perfectly smooth and creamy frosting. For quick softening tips, similar methods as for cream cheese can be applied.
- Powdered Sugar: About 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar) provides the necessary sweetness and a smooth consistency to the frosting. Sifting it before use can help prevent lumps.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and adds a warm, aromatic depth to the frosting.
- Heavy Cream: 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, with a little extra available if needed. Heavy cream makes the frosting incredibly rich, luscious, and wonderfully fluffy. While milk can be used as a substitute, heavy cream truly elevates the frosting to bakery-level perfection.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls
Get ready to create a truly unforgettable treat with this incredibly straightforward recipe. Follow these steps for perfect, gooey cinnamon rolls every time.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This crucial step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, especially with the delicious, gooey filling. Carefully remove the entire block of 12 Original King’s Hawaiian Rolls from its packaging and place them gently on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they remain connected.
The untouched block of Hawaiian rolls resting on parchment paper, ready for the next step. Create the Spiral Cuts: Using a sharp steak or paring knife, carefully cut a spiral into the top of each individual roll. Start in the exact center of one roll and gently cut in a continuous circular motion until you reach the outer edge. Repeat this process for all 12 rolls. These spirals are key; they create little pockets and channels that allow the butter and brown sugar mixture to seep deep into the bread, maximizing that signature gooey texture.
Prepare the Gooey Filling: In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ⅔ cup of dark brown sugar, and 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Microwave the mixture in short, 15-20 second bursts, stirring well after each interval, until the butter is completely melted and the sugar begins to dissolve. Once melted, stir vigorously and continuously for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and fully combined, resembling a rich, brown sugar syrup.
Generously Apply the Filling: Using a large spoon, carefully and evenly spread the thick butter-sugar mixture over the top of all the Hawaiian rolls, making sure to cover them completely. Pay special attention to the spiral cuts you made. Once the mixture is spread, take your knife again and gently retrace the spiral cuts and the edges between the rolls. This action helps to ensure the delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture seeps down into every crevice and saturates the rolls from within, promising an extra gooey result.
The sweet, buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture generously poured over the spiral-cut Hawaiian rolls, beginning to seep in. Allow to Absorb: Let the rolls sit undisturbed on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This resting period is crucial for the rolls to fully absorb the rich butter and sugar mixture. This absorption time is what truly creates that incredible gooey, caramelized texture after baking.
Preheat and Bake: While the rolls are absorbing the flavors, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, place the baking sheet with the rolls on the middle oven rack. Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are beautifully golden brown and the edges are bubbling with the caramelized sugar mixture. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbrowning. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before frosting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened 4 ounces of cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat these ingredients on medium speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. Next, add the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar. Beat again on low speed until the sugar is just incorporated, then increase to medium-high and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Adjust Frosting Consistency: Gradually add the 1 tablespoon of heavy cream to the frosting, beating on medium speed until it reaches your desired fluffy and smooth consistency. If you prefer a thinner, more pourable glaze, add a little more heavy cream (or milk) a teaspoon at a time until you achieve your ideal texture. For a thicker, more spreadable frosting, stick to the initial amount or slightly less.
The rich, homemade cream cheese frosting, perfectly whipped and ready to be spread. Frost and Serve: Once the rolls have cooled for a few minutes (they can still be warm, but not piping hot, to prevent the frosting from melting completely), generously spread the homemade cream cheese frosting over the entire batch. Ensure every roll gets a good dollop of that creamy goodness. Serve immediately and prepare for rave reviews!
Craving More Easy & Delicious Recipes?
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of these King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls, you’re in for a treat! Explore more delightful recipes that bring comfort and deliciousness to your kitchen with minimal effort. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, these recipes are designed to satisfy every craving.
- Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls
- Tik Tok Cinnamon Rolls
- Classic Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
- Pie Crust Cinnamon Rolls
- Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
- Homemade Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
- Crock Pot Cinnamon Rolls
King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls
Delicious and incredibly easy cinnamon rolls made from King’s Hawaiian Rolls, featuring a rich, buttery filling and a sweet, homemade cream cheese frosting.
Average rating: 5 out of 5 stars (2 Reviews)
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Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 12 count package of Original King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- ⅔ cup dark brown sugar (can use light brown)
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 Tablespoon heavy cream (more if needed – can use milk)
Instructions
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Remove the 12 count package of Original King’s Hawaiian Rolls from the package and place them on the baking sheet, keeping them connected.
Use a sharp steak or paring knife to cut a spiral into each roll. Start in the center of the roll and cut in a circular fashion until you reach the edge of the roll.
Place 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, ⅔ cup dark brown sugar, and 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon into a microwave safe bowl.
Microwave in short bursts until the butter is melted. Stir vigorously until the sugar mixture is thick and fully combined with the melted butter.
Use a large spoon to evenly spread the mixture over the rolls.
Use your knife to gently retrace the spiral cuts and edges of the rolls to allow the mixture to seep deeper into the rolls.
Let the rolls sit for 10-15 minutes to further absorb the butter sugar mixture.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls (on the middle oven rack) for about 10 minutes or until golden brown, then remove and allow to cool slightly.
Add 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened to room temperature, and 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature, to a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 ½ cups powdered sugar and beat until smooth.
Add 1 Tablespoon heavy cream and mix. If needed, add a little more cream at a time until it reaches a thick and creamy consistency (or to your preference).
Spread the prepared frosting generously over the warm (but not hot) rolls and enjoy immediately!
Notes
- For ingredient substitutions, flavor variations, and common questions, please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and ingredient list sections above for detailed answers and tips.
- These rolls are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Information (Estimated per roll)
Calories: 190 kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Sodium: 74mg | Fiber: 0.1g | Sugar: 27g
Nutritional Disclaimer
Please note that “The Country Cook” is not a certified dietician or nutritionist. Any nutritional information provided is an estimate. If precise calorie counts and other nutritional values are important for your dietary needs, we recommend independently calculating the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Actual calories and other nutritional values can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and any modifications made to the recipe.
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