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Transform ordinary Hawaiian rolls into an extraordinary breakfast treat with this clever shortcut recipe. These cream cheese-filled cinnamon rolls combine the soft, pillowy texture of Kings Hawaiian bread with a rich cream cheese filling and warm cinnamon spice. It's the perfect solution when you're craving homemade cinnamon rolls but short on time.
Yesterday morning, I surprised my family with these rolls, and they couldn't believe they started with store-bought bread. The secret lies in proper filling technique and careful baking time.
Essential Ingredients
- Kings Hawaiian Rolls: Their natural sweetness creates perfect base
- Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Essential for rich, creamy filling
- European-Style Butter: Higher fat content improves flavor
- Dark Brown Sugar: Adds depth to cinnamon glaze
- Fresh Ground Cinnamon: Quality matters for best flavor
Through multiple test batches, I've discovered that room temperature ingredients and careful hollowing technique make all the difference.
Detailed Instructions
- 1. Roll Preparation:
- Start by carefully hollowing each roll using a small sharp knife. Create a well in the center, leaving a ½-inch border on all sides. Press gently to compact the walls without tearing. Save removed bread for other uses - it makes excellent breadcrumbs.
- 2. Glaze Creation:
- Melt butter slowly to prevent separation. Whisk in brown sugar and cinnamon until completely smooth - no sugar granules should remain. The mixture should be warm enough to spread easily but not hot enough to melt the cream cheese filling.
- 3. Filling Technique:
- Beat cream cheese until completely smooth before adding sugar. Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy - about 3 minutes. Add egg and salt, mixing just until incorporated. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape.
- 4. Assembly Process:
- Brush interior and top edges of rolls generously with butter-cinnamon mixture. Fill each cavity about ¾ full with cream cheese mixture - it will puff slightly during baking. Arrange rolls close together in baking pan.
- 5. Baking Method:
- Place pan in center of preheated oven. Watch carefully after 12 minutes - tops should be lightly golden but not dark. Filling will be slightly jiggly when done but will set as it cools.
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Perfect Pairings and Service
Present these rolls on a rustic wooden board or elegant cake stand. Serve while still slightly warm with:
- Fresh brewed coffee or espresso
- Hot chocolate with whipped cream
- Mixed berry compote
- Maple-glazed bacon
- Fresh fruit salad
- Vanilla bean ice cream for dessert version
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Temperature Mastery
The key to perfect rolls lies in temperature control:
- Cream cheese must be properly softened - 2 hours at room temperature
- Butter should be melted but not hot when mixing with sugar
- Hollowed rolls should be room temperature for even baking
- Let rest 10 minutes after baking - filling will set as it cools
- If made ahead, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving
Creative Variations
- Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon zest to filling
- Nutty Version: Top with toasted pecans or almonds
- Berry Bliss: Swirl raspberry or strawberry preserves into filling
- Chocolate Lover's: Add mini chocolate chips before baking
- Caramel Dream: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce
- Maple Pecan: Replace cinnamon glaze with maple syrup and chopped pecans
Make-Ahead Strategies
Prep these rolls the night before:
- Prepare filling and store separately
- Hollow rolls and wrap tightly
- Combine dry ingredients for glaze
- Morning of, bring everything to room temperature
- Assemble and bake fresh
This ensures perfectly fresh rolls without morning stress.
Storage Solutions
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed same day
- Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days in airtight container
- Freezer: Not recommended - affects texture
- Reheat individual rolls in microwave for 15-20 seconds
- Add fresh glaze after reheating if desired
Through years of making these rolls, I've learned that success lies in careful preparation and attention to detail. What started as a simple shortcut recipe has become a beloved family tradition, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special celebrations. The combination of soft Hawaiian bread, creamy filling, and warm cinnamon creates something truly special that brings people together around the breakfast table.
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Final Thoughts
These Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls represent the perfect balance between convenience and homemade taste. They prove that sometimes the cleverest recipes come from thinking outside the box - literally! Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe delivers impressive results that will have everyone asking for seconds. Remember, the key to success lies in treating each step with care, from properly softening the cream cheese to watching the baking time carefully. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- You can prepare them up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.
- → What if I can't find Kings Hawaiian rolls?
- Any soft dinner roll will work, but the signature sweetness of Kings Hawaiian makes them ideal.
- → Can I add other toppings?
- Yes, try fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slightly before serving.
- → Can I freeze these rolls?
- Yes, freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.