Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe

If you have a soft spot for sweet, fluffy bread that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then you are going to absolutely love this Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe. These rolls perfectly capture the light, airy texture and subtle sweetness that makes King’s Hawaiian bread so beloved, but with a creamy richness that elevates them to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, alongside dinner, or as a delightful snack, these rolls promise to transform any meal into something memorable and oh-so-comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe lies in its carefully chosen simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that signature softness, delicate sweetness, and appealing golden color. Together, they work like a dream to create an irresistible treat.

• Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness, helping create a tender crumb.
• Unsalted butter: Contributes buttery flavor and a soft texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast for proper rising.
• Active dry yeast: The essential leavening agent that makes the rolls fluffy.
• Warm water (110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast gently without killing it.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation for structure and chewiness.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor overall.
• Large eggs: Add richness, color, and a hint of tenderness.
• Vanilla extract: Brings a subtle fragrant sweetness that complements the rolls beautifully.

How to Make Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm water and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then sprinkle the yeast over the surface. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it gets foamy and alive—that’s your green light that the yeast is ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Warm Milk and Butter

In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and butter together until the butter fully melts and the milk reaches a cozy warm temperature (about 110°F). This creates the silky liquid base that will blend beautifully with your other ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk eggs and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour in your warm milk and butter mixture, stirring carefully to avoid cooking the eggs but ensuring everything becomes smooth and combined.

Step 4: Combine with Activated Yeast

Once your yeast is nice and foamy, add it to the wet mixture and stir to unify all the flavors and textures symbiotically.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, adding half a cup at a time. Mix until the dough starts pulling together into a soft, slightly sticky ball. Feel free to add a bit more flour if the dough feels too wet, but aim to keep it tender.

Step 6: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for around 5 to 7 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, signaling it’s ready for its rise. Alternatively, a stand mixer with a dough hook can make this step easier and faster.

Step 7: First Rise

Place your dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and leave it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—usually about 1 to 1.5 hours. This rise is crucial for that light, airy texture.

Step 8: Shape the Rolls

After the initial rise, gently punch down the dough, divide it into 12 equal pieces, and roll each piece into a smooth ball. Arrange these snugly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to encourage soft sides and perfect pull-apart rolls.

Step 9: Second Rise

Cover the baking dish and allow the rolls to puff up for another 30 minutes. This shorter rise ensures your rolls will be ultra-fluffy and soft once baked.

Step 10: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and sound hollow when you tap the top—a sure sign that they are perfectly baked.

Step 11: Optional Butter Brush

If you want to take the rolls to the next level, brush melted butter over their tops right after baking. This not only adds delicious flavor but also keeps the crust soft and inviting.

Step 12: Cool and Serve

Let your rolls cool for a few minutes directly in the pan before serving. The aroma and texture will make it almost impossible not to dive in immediately and savor every bite of your homemade King’s Hawaiian-inspired delight.

How to Serve Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

The classic way to enjoy these rolls is warm and simple—maybe with a pat of butter that melts into all those tender layers. For a festive touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top or serve with a drizzle of honey.

Side Dishes

These rolls are incredibly versatile. They pair beautifully with savory dishes like pulled pork, roasted chicken, or a hearty stew. Their subtle sweetness also complements spicy or tangy barbecue sauces perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Serve the rolls as sliders filled with ham and cheese or mashed avocado and tomato. You can also slice them open and transform them into mini sweet sandwiches perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover rolls tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and fresh for up to two days. Reheating gently helps restore that just-baked feel.

Freezing

To enjoy your Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe later, freeze the baked rolls in a sealed freezer bag. They keep well for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm straight from the freezer.

Reheating

Reheat your rolls in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 15 seconds to restore softness and warmth.

FAQs

Can I substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative in this recipe?

Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be used in place of whole milk, but choose unsweetened versions to control the sweetness. The texture might vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Yes, the two rises are essential. The first rise develops flavor and texture, while the second rise after shaping ensures your rolls stay soft and fluffy with that classic pull-apart quality.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, replace the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives, and swap eggs for flax or chia seeds mixed with water. The result might be a bit different but still tasty and satisfying.

Why are my rolls dense instead of soft and fluffy?

Dense rolls usually mean the dough didn’t rise enough or was over-floured. Make sure to proof your yeast properly and knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Avoid adding too much flour to retain softness.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the dough?

Definitely! Feel free to add things like coconut flakes, pineapple bits, or even a swirl of cinnamon sugar before baking to personalize your Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe to your taste buds.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making your own soft, sweet rolls at home, and this Quick King’s Hawaiian Cream Rolls Recipe is the perfect blend of ease and indulgence. With its irresistible texture and wholesome ingredients, these rolls will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how they bring a little extra joy to your table!

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