Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls are one of my favorite treats to bake, especially when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy version using sweet Hawaiian rolls has become a go-to in my home because it delivers that classic cinnamon roll flavor with a shortcut that makes the whole process simple and quick.
I love how the soft, slightly sweet rolls soak up the buttery cinnamon mixture and bake into fluffy, golden swirls of goodness. Whether I’m making them for a relaxed weekend breakfast, a brunch with friends, or a cozy dessert, these Hawaiian rolls cinnamon rolls always disappear fast.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Hawaiian rolls:
These soft, slightly sweet rolls are the secret shortcut in this recipe. Their fluffy texture and hint of sweetness perfectly mimic homemade cinnamon roll dough without the time-consuming kneading and rising. They also absorb the cinnamon butter mixture beautifully.
Butter:
Butter adds richness and helps create the gooey cinnamon filling that coats each roll. When melted and combined with sugar and cinnamon, it creates that classic sticky texture that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible.
Brown sugar:
Brown sugar gives the filling a deeper caramel-like flavor compared to white sugar. It melts with the butter and cinnamon to create that delicious syrupy filling that soaks into the rolls while baking.
Ground cinnamon:
Cinnamon is the star spice in this recipe. Its warm aroma and slightly sweet spice flavor create the signature cinnamon roll taste everyone loves.
Heavy cream:
Pouring a little heavy cream over the rolls before baking helps keep them soft and moist. It also creates a creamy, rich base that turns into a gooey sauce as the rolls bake.
Cream cheese:
Cream cheese forms the base of the frosting. Its slight tang balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and creates a smooth, creamy topping.
Powdered sugar:
Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting while keeping it smooth and silky. It blends easily with cream cheese and butter to make a perfect glaze.
Vanilla extract:
Vanilla enhances the flavor of the frosting and adds a warm, sweet aroma that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Milk:
A small amount of milk helps thin the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
Ingredients List
- 1 package (12 rolls) Hawaiian sweet rolls
- ½ cup butter, melted
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ cup heavy cream
For the frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
How to Make Easy Hawaiian Rolls Cinnamon Rolls
Prepare the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Without separating the rolls, slice the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls horizontally to create a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom half into a greased baking dish.
Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. This mixture should be thick, sweet, and fragrant.
Assemble the Rolls
Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls, making sure to cover all the edges. Place the top half of the rolls back on top.
Add the Cream
Slowly pour the heavy cream over the rolls. This step may seem unusual, but it helps keep the rolls incredibly soft and creates a rich, gooey texture during baking.
Bake the Rolls
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls bake, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
Frost and Serve
Spread the frosting over the warm rolls as soon as they come out of the oven so it melts slightly into all the crevices. Serve warm and enjoy every gooey bite.
Tips for Making This Recipe
Use fresh Hawaiian rolls for the best soft texture. Slightly stale rolls won’t absorb the filling as well.
If you want extra gooey cinnamon rolls, add a little extra brown sugar to the filling.
Pouring the heavy cream around and over the rolls evenly ensures they bake soft instead of dry.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the cinnamon mixture.
If you like a thicker frosting, reduce the milk slightly. For a glaze-style topping, add a bit more milk.
You can also add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a little crunch.
FAQs
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the rolls the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them fresh the next morning.
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian rolls?
Yes, but Hawaiian rolls add a subtle sweetness that makes the recipe taste closer to classic cinnamon rolls.
How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 20 seconds before serving.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Yes. Bake them first, let them cool completely, then freeze. Reheat in the oven and add fresh frosting before serving.
Can I add raisins or nuts?
Absolutely. Raisins, pecans, or walnuts work well in the cinnamon filling and add extra texture and flavor.