Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Tropical Treat

Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls: Prepare to be transported to a tropical paradise with every single bite! Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls mingling with the tangy sweetness of pineapple and the rich creaminess of a decadent cream cheese frosting. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience.

Cinnamon rolls, in their classic form, have a rich history rooted in Northern Europe, with variations found in Sweden and Germany for centuries. But our version takes a delightful detour, infusing the traditional treat with the vibrant flavors of Hawaii. The addition of pineapple is a nod to the islands’ abundant fruit and its significant role in Hawaiian agriculture and cuisine. It’s a fusion of cultures that creates something truly special.

What makes these Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The soft, fluffy dough, swirled with cinnamon sugar and juicy pineapple, gives way to a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s both tangy and sweet. People adore this dish because it’s comforting, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping brunch centerpiece or a sweet treat to brighten your day, these rolls are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a taste of aloha in every delicious bite!

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• For the Filling:
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup crushed pineapple, well-drained
• ¼ cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons milk, or pineapple juice (for extra flavor)
• Optional Toppings:
• Toasted coconut flakes
• Chopped macadamia nuts
• Pineapple chunks

Preparing the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Gently stir to dissolve the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to use. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it might be old or the milk was too hot, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the melted butter, salt, and beaten eggs to the yeast mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it could cook the eggs.
3. Add the Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. I usually start with a wooden spoon and then switch to my hands as the dough becomes thicker. The dough should be slightly sticky but still manageable.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.
5. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is crucial for light and fluffy cinnamon rolls! I often put mine in a slightly warmed oven (turned off, of course!).

Preparing the Filling:

1. Combine Filling Ingredients: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until everything is evenly combined and forms a smooth paste.
2. Add Pineapple and Coconut: Gently fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. Make sure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

Assembling and Baking the Cinnamon Rolls:

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
2. Spread the Filling: Spread the prepared filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. This helps seal the rolls.
3. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Try to keep the roll as tight as possible to create nice, even spirals.
4. Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices. I find that dental floss works really well for clean cuts!
5. Second Rise: Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up slightly.
6. Preheat the Oven: While the rolls are rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake the Rolls: Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a roll; it should come out clean.
8. Cool Slightly: Let the cinnamon rolls cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting completely.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. It’s important that both the cream cheese and butter are softened to avoid lumps in the frosting.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Adjust Consistency: Add milk or pineapple juice, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. I like mine to be thick enough to hold its shape but still easily spreadable.

Frosting and Serving:

1. Frost the Rolls: Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls. Make sure to get frosting into all the nooks and crannies!
2. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle the frosted cinnamon rolls with toasted coconut flakes, chopped macadamia nuts, or pineapple chunks.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it! These Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are truly something special, and I genuinely believe they deserve a spot on your baking bucket list. The combination of the soft, fluffy dough, the warm cinnamon spice, the tangy cream cheese frosting, and that burst of tropical pineapple is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to a sunny Hawaiian beach, even if you’re just enjoying them in your kitchen on a rainy day.

But why are these cinnamon rolls a must-try? It’s more than just the taste; it’s the experience. From the satisfying process of kneading the dough to the anticipation as they bake in the oven, filling your home with that incredible aroma, making these rolls is a labor of love that pays off in every single bite. And let’s be honest, who can resist a warm, gooey cinnamon roll, especially one that’s been elevated with such unique and delicious flavors?

Beyond the sheer deliciousness, these rolls are surprisingly versatile. While they’re perfect as is, straight from the oven, there are plenty of ways to customize them to your liking. For a truly decadent experience, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess perfectly complements the warm, spiced rolls.

Looking for variations? You could add chopped macadamia nuts to the filling for an extra Hawaiian touch. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating other tropical fruits like mango or papaya into the cream cheese frosting. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top adds a delightful texture and flavor. For a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or frosting. You can even make them ahead of time! Prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature for about an hour before baking as directed. This is a great option if you want to enjoy fresh, warm cinnamon rolls for breakfast without spending all morning in the kitchen.

These Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for a special occasion, a weekend brunch, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day. They’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends, and they’re a fun and rewarding baking project for bakers of all skill levels.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of these rolls for yourself. Don’t be intimidated by the steps; I’ve broken everything down to make it as easy as possible. And remember, baking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things.

Once you’ve made these Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear all about your baking adventures. Happy baking!

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