If you are craving a delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite, look no further than these Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Tropical Treat Recipe. Imagine soft, fluffy dough infused with warming cinnamon sugar, perfectly complemented by the vibrant flavors of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. These rolls are rich, aromatic, and drenched in a luscious cream cheese glaze that makes every bite heaven. Whether you’re serving them for a special brunch, holiday morning, or just because you deserve a tropical escape in your kitchen, these cinnamon rolls will transport your taste buds straight to island paradise.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and tropical flair that defines these Hawaiian cinnamon rolls.
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting: The foundation for our dough, providing structure and chewiness.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Helps activate the yeast and adds subtle sweetness.
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast: Essential for making the dough rise and achieve that fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dough.
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Provide structure and a beautiful golden color.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: For the rich cinnamon filling that will melt in your mouth.
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar: Brings a deep caramel flavor to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The warm, aromatic star of the filling.
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, well-drained: Adds juicy tropical brightness and sweetness.
- ½ cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened: Provides chewy texture and enhances the island vibe.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Key for a luscious, tangy glaze that ties it all together.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened: Makes the cream cheese glaze luxuriously smooth.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze perfectly without graininess.
- ¼ cup milk: Adjusts the glaze to your desired consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor to the glaze.
How to Make Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Tropical Treat Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let this sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy—this ensures your yeast is active and ready to work magic. Next, whisk in melted butter and the beaten eggs to this mixture. In another bowl, mix the flour and salt together, then slowly add this to your wet ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. This first step is crucial because a well-mixed dough ensures the rolls will be soft, tender, and have the perfect crumb.
Step 2: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic
Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for about 6 to 8 minutes, or let your stand mixer with a dough hook do the work for 5 to 7 minutes. You’re aiming for a dough that feels slightly tacky but is not sticky. Proper kneading develops the gluten structure, which is essential for that perfect bounce in every bite.
Step 3: First Rise for Fluffy Dough
Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and turn it to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and leave it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size. This rise is what gives your cinnamon rolls the airy, lofty texture that keeps them irresistibly soft and fluffy.
Step 4: Prepare the Tropical Cinnamon Filling
While the dough is rising, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. This filling is where the tropical magic comes alive, pairing the warm spice of cinnamon with juicy sweetness and chewy coconut for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Step 5: Roll Out, Fill, and Shape
After the dough has doubled, give it a gentle punch to release trapped air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 12 by 18 inches. Spread your luscious filling evenly, leaving a small border along one long edge. Starting from the opposite side, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seam to seal. This rolling technique ensures each cinnamon roll is packed with that delicious tropical filling.
Step 6: Slice and Proof Before Baking
Using a sharp serrated knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices. Lay these slices in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish cut-side up. Cover loosely and allow them to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed up slightly. This second rise creates those lovely, pillowy layers we’re all dreaming about.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. The smell wafting through your kitchen at this point will be absolutely intoxicating— a mouthwatering preview of the tropical delight coming your way.
Step 8: Prepare and Apply the Cream Cheese Glaze
While your rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in milk and vanilla extract until you have a creamy, spreadable glaze. Spread this indulgent topping generously over the slightly cooled rolls to add that silky, tangy finish that makes these Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Tropical Treat Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Tropical Treat Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra oomph, sprinkle toasted shredded coconut or chopped macadamia nuts on top of the glaze. These garnishes add a lovely crunch and enhance the island-inspired flavor profile. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a pretty finishing touch for a brunch-worthy presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve these rolls alongside a fresh tropical fruit salad featuring mango, papaya, and kiwi to echo and amplify those sunny flavors. A cup of freshly brewed Kona coffee or a refreshing pineapple mimosa would pair wonderfully as well, turning your breakfast or brunch into a mini Hawaiian getaway.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve warm Hawaiian cinnamon rolls stacked on a rustic wooden board topped with edible flowers like hibiscus or orchids. Alternatively, present them in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You could even drizzle a little extra caramel sauce over the glaze for a sweet surprise everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Hawaiian cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them covered to retain moisture and softness. For best enjoyment, reheat gently before serving.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these tropical treats later, freeze unbaked, cut rolls in a single layer on a tray until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and allow a final rise before baking as directed.
Reheating
Warm leftover or thawed rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Add a fresh brush of glaze or a dollop of butter to revive that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture you love.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned crushed pineapple?
Absolutely! Just make sure to finely crush and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that could make the filling soggy. Fresh pineapple will add a bright, natural sweetness that’s perfect for this recipe.
What type of coconut is best for these cinnamon rolls?
Either sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut works well. Sweetened will add a touch more sugary flavor, while unsweetened keeps it a bit more natural. Toasted coconut can be sprinkled on top for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Is it possible to make the dough in a stand mixer?
Yes! Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook is a great way to knead the dough evenly and efficiently, especially if you want to save time or avoid sticky hands. Knead on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?
You can adapt this recipe by substituting plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax or chia egg replacer. Keep in mind that texture and flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
They should be golden brown on top and smell fragrant and sweet. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a roll; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, not raw dough.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way these Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Tropical Treat Recipe combine the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls with the bright, vibrant flavors of pineapple and coconut. They’re perfect whether you’re treating yourself, impressing brunch guests, or creating a holiday tradition. Believe me, once you try them, these rolls will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the tropical magic begin!
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Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Tropical Treat Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls bring a tropical twist to a classic treat, combining soft, fluffy dough with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling enhanced by crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, these rolls offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tropical flavor, ideal for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
- ½ cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare Dough Mixture: Add the melted butter and beaten eggs to the yeast mixture and whisk to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 6-8 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat it evenly. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, until it doubles in size.
- Make the Filling: While the dough rises, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Pineapple and Coconut: Ensure the crushed pineapple is well-drained to avoid soggy filling. Gently fold the pineapple and shredded coconut into the cinnamon sugar mixture and set aside.
- Roll Out Dough: After the dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the prepared filling over the dough surface, leaving a small border along one long edge.
- Roll and Cut: Starting at the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log shape and pinch the seam to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a serrated knife or dental floss.
- Second Rise: Place the slices cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover loosely and let rise in a warm area for 30-45 minutes until slightly puffed.
- Preheat Oven: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls rise.
- Bake: Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool before Frosting: Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes to avoid melting the glaze.
- Prepare Glaze: Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix on low speed. Add milk and vanilla extract, beating until smooth. Adjust milk quantity for desired consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Spread the cream cheese glaze generously over warm cinnamon rolls and serve immediately for the best tropical flavor experience.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy filling.
- If your kitchen is cold, place the rising dough in an oven with just the light on for a warm environment.
- Use room temperature ingredients to help yeast activate better and dough to rise properly.
- For a more intense pineapple flavor, add a little pineapple juice into the glaze if desired.
- Sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut can be used based on your preference.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate and reheat gently before serving.
