Name: Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package of King’s Hawaiian Rolls; 2/3 cup half and half; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons butter, cubed; 8 oz. cream cheese, softened; 4 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 64 reviews

If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then let me introduce you to the Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe. This irresistible dish combines the rich softness of King’s Hawaiian Rolls with a luscious cream cheese filling, all enveloped in a cinnamon-spiced custard and finished with a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating. Each bite is pure comfort with a perfect marriage of sweet, creamy, and spiced flavors making it an unforgettable treat that’s bound to become your new favorite breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several pieces of meat covered in a dry, crumbly coating of brown spices, arranged closely together in a silver tray. Each piece has a thick layer of a reddish-brown spice mix on its surface, giving a rough and textured look, with some pieces showing darker spots where the spices have clumped. The meat pieces are rectangular or square-shaped and appear moist under the spice layer, with some juices visible around the bottom edges. The background is a white marbled surface that softly contrasts with the darker tones of the meat and spices. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to make these Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is delightfully simple because the ingredients are straightforward yet critical. Each component brings something special: the soft King’s Hawaiian Rolls provide a tender base, cream cheese adds richness and tang, and the cinnamon sugar gives those incredible warm, sweet notes that define this dish.

King’s Hawaiian Rolls (1 package): The signature sweet, fluffy rolls are the perfect foundation for this recipe.

Half and half (2/3 cup): Adds creaminess to the custard for soaking the rolls.
Eggs (2, beaten): Help bind the custard and give it structure.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings a delicate, aromatic sweetness to the custard.

Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon for custard + 1 tablespoon for filling + 3 tablespoons for sugar): Offers that cozy spice that ties the whole dish together.
Butter (2 tablespoons cubed for custard + 4 tablespoons melted for filling + cubes for pan searing): Essential for richness, moisture, and that irresistible crispy crust when seared.
Cream cheese (8 oz., softened): The luscious, creamy filling that balances the sweet and spicy notes perfectly.

Brown sugar (1/3 cup): Adds deep caramel undertones in the filling.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Coats the rolls with that signature cinnamon sugar crunch.

How to Make Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling and Cinnamon Sugar

Start by blending the melted butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar together in a bowl. This creates a luscious, spiced paste that will infuse every bite with caramelized warmth. In a separate large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon—a simple but potent mixture that will envelope the rolls later for that perfect crunch.

Step 2: Assemble the Rolls

Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half. Spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on both the top and bottom halves. Then, drizzle the cinnamon-butter paste all over the cream cheese layers before sandwiching the halves back together. Pop the assembled rolls into the fridge for about 20 minutes; chilling helps the filling set so it doesn’t slide out when cooking.

Step 3: Make the Custard

While the rolls chill, whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a large bowl. This custard bath will soak the rolls, making them perfectly tender and flavorful, reminiscent of your favorite French toast.

Step 4: Soak and Sear the Rolls

Dip each chilled roll into the custard mixture for 15 to 30 seconds, ensuring it’s nicely saturated but not soggy. Heat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat for a minute, then add a cube of butter. Working in batches, sear the rolls like French toast so they develop a golden crust on at least three sides. Each batch will take around 4 to 5 minutes—wipe the pan clean with paper towels between batches to prevent burning.

Step 5: Coat and Serve

Once seared, immediately toss the rolls in the cinnamon sugar bowl so they’re completely coated in that addictive sweet-spiced crust. Transfer to a serving plate and serve these warm for the ultimate experience—oozing cream cheese, sweet cinnamon, and buttery goodness all in one bite.

How to Serve Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe

A close-up image shows several pieces of cinnamon sugar-coated fried dough on a white plate on a white marbled surface. One piece is cut in half, revealing two soft, pale yellow bread layers with a thick creamy white filling between them, lightly dusted with cinnamon sugar. The outer layer is golden to dark brown with a crisp, grainy texture from the sugar and cinnamon coating. The image captures the rough and crisp exterior contrasting with the smooth, creamy inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe by dusting a little powdered sugar on top or drizzling a thin glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Fresh berries or chopped toasted nuts like macadamias add delightful texture contrast and a pop of color. For a tropical touch, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes brings out the aloha spirit beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads or a light green salad to balance the sweetness. For a brunch spread, consider fresh squeezed orange juice or a rich coffee with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to complement the rolls’ warm flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these rolls in a rustic wooden board or a vibrant tropical-themed plate to accentuate the Hawaiian vibe. Arrange them in a circle around a bowl of whipped cream or a tropical fruit compote for a visually stunning centerpiece. Individual servings in small ramekins with a dollop of whipped cream also make for charming portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe can be stored tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their creamy filling and keeps the rolls moist but slightly soft.

Freezing

You can freeze the fully cooked rolls by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly cooked warmth and crispness, reheat the rolls in a toaster oven or skillet over medium-low heat. Avoid the microwave as it can make the rolls soggy. A few minutes per side will revive that golden crust and melty cream cheese center perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread instead of King’s Hawaiian Rolls?

While King’s Hawaiian Rolls are ideal for their sweetness and softness, you could experiment with other sweet rolls or brioche breads. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary, but the custard soak and cinnamon sugar will still make them tasty.

Is it possible to make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the half and half with your favorite plant-based milk like oat or almond, use dairy-free cream cheese, and replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. The texture and flavor may slightly differ but still delicious.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and cook it later?

Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, soak them in custard, and refrigerate them covered for a few hours or overnight. Just give them a quick pat before searing to remove excess moisture and proceed as usual.

How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from burning during cooking?

Cooking on medium-low heat and wiping out the pan between batches are key. This ensures the sugar doesn’t burn and turn bitter while still allowing the rolls to develop that perfect caramelized coating.

What’s the best way to serve these rolls warm if I’m making them ahead?

Reheat them gently in a skillet or oven to maintain the crisp edges and melty center. Serving immediately after reheating keeps that fresh-from-the-pan magic intact.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making these Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese and Cinnamon Sugar Recipe enough. They’re incredibly comforting, wonderfully flavorful, and come together with simple ingredients that work in harmony. Whether you’re treating yourself on a lazy weekend morning or impressing friends at brunch, these rolls will be a guaranteed hit. So, grab a package of those golden Hawaiian rolls, and get ready to taste something truly special!