Description

Experience a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls with King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls. These soft, fluffy rolls are layered with a rich cinnamon-butter spread, baked to a golden perfection, and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect as a warm breakfast treat or a comforting dessert, this recipe is simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor and sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Rolls and Filling

1 package (12 rolls) King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Frosting

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk

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Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Slice Rolls: Carefully slice the entire block of King’s Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the individual rolls intact, forming top and bottom layers.
Arrange Bottom Layer: Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared baking dish, forming a solid base for the cinnamon filling.
Make Cinnamon Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg to create a thick, spreadable paste.
Spread Filling and Add Nuts: Evenly spread the cinnamon mixture over the bottom layer of rolls, then sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top if using.
Replace Top Layer: Place the top half of the rolls back onto the cinnamon-spread bottom layer and gently press down to set the layers together.
Bake Rolls: Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent excessive browning and bake for 15–18 minutes until the rolls are warm and slightly golden.
Prepare Frosting: While the rolls bake, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. Add milk one tablespoon at a time and blend until the frosting reaches your desired spreading consistency.
Cool and Frost: Remove the baked rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly so the frosting won’t melt. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Serve Warm: Serve the cinnamon rolls warm for the best taste and texture experience.

Notes

For a sticky bun variation, drizzle caramel sauce over the rolls before baking.
These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated briefly in the microwave for 15–20 seconds if needed.