King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe Gooey, Sweet & Easy to Make

If you’re craving something buttery, warm, and cinnamon-sweet that doesn’t take hours to prepare, this King’s Hawaiian cinnamon rolls recipe is your answer. It delivers all the indulgence of traditional cinnamon rolls with less time, less effort, and even more flavor—thanks to the rich, pillowy soft texture of King’s Hawaiian bread. Whether you’re making breakfast for a holiday, hosting brunch, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these rolls are a show-stopping treat.

Unlike homemade dough recipes that require yeast, rising, and rolling, this version uses pre-made King’s Hawaiian rolls, which are already fluffy, lightly sweetened, and ideal for soaking in cinnamon sugar filling. You’ll love how the golden tops crisp up just right while the insides stay deliciously gooey. What’s more, they are endlessly customizable.

To understand why this sweet bread is so perfect, learn more about how Hawaiian bread became a national favorite. Its soft texture and subtle sweetness make it the perfect base for all kinds of breakfast and dessert recipes.

And if you’re looking to perfect your cinnamon roll baking skills, even with shortcuts like this one, be sure to review these expert cinnamon roll tips to ensure every batch turns out soft and flavorful—not dry or soggy.

Why These King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Work So Well

This recipe takes a brilliant shortcut—one that cuts prep time dramatically without compromising the gooey, indulgent cinnamon roll experience. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• No dough making or proofing needed
• Uses ultra-soft and slightly sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls
• Filled with buttery brown sugar and cinnamon mixture
• Glazed with a creamy vanilla or cream cheese icing
• Bakes in just 20–25 minutes
• Perfect for kids, busy mornings, and lazy weekends

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cinnamon Rolls:

• 1 pack of King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls (12-count)
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

These simple ingredients create a rich filling and a smooth glaze that melts perfectly over the warm rolls. If you want to skip the cream cheese, a traditional powdered sugar glaze works too.

How to Make King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the entire loaf of King’s Hawaiian rolls out of the package, keeping them connected. Slice horizontally to separate the tops from the bottoms, like a sandwich bun. Place the bottom half into a greased baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a thick spreadable paste. Evenly spread this cinnamon mixture onto the bottom half of the rolls. Carefully put the top half of the rolls back on.

Step 3: Bake

Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Bake for 15–18 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to crisp the tops. The filling will melt down and soak into the bread beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

Once the rolls come out of the oven, drizzle the glaze over the top while still warm for maximum melt and flavor.

Delicious Add-Ins and Variations for King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

These rolls are wonderfully versatile.

• Use a maple glaze by adding a teaspoon of maple extract to the icing
• Mix in pumpkin pie spice with the cinnamon during the fall months
• Add fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or strawberries, between layers
• Try a fruity spin using strawberry cream cheese glaze like in this strawberry cheesecake cookie recipe

You can even serve them alongside desserts like this churro cheesecake recipe for a full-on cinnamon-themed dessert spread.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Tips

Need to prep in advance for a party or morning event? These cinnamon rolls are incredibly make-ahead friendly.

• To refrigerate overnight: Prepare the rolls fully (up to baking), cover the dish with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before baking.
• To freeze: Assemble and freeze unbaked rolls in a tightly wrapped dish for up to one month. Bake from frozen by adding an extra 10–12 minutes to the baking time.
• To reheat: Warm leftovers in a 300°F oven or microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Planning a holiday brunch? These make-ahead cinnamon roll recipes for holidays will inspire your whole menu.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an air tight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for best taste and texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Rolls

• Don’t overload with too much filling—it can leak and make rolls soggy
• Bake covered first to prevent burning the tops
• Use a serrated knife to cut the rolls if slicing post-bake
• Apply glaze while warm, not hot, to avoid it running off completely
• Pair with a warm beverage like a caramel brulee latte for a cozy breakfast treat

For another rich, homemade roll experience, try these sourdough cinnamon rolls with added tang and flavor complexity.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: ~240
• Fat: 10–12g
• Sugar: ~16g
• Carbohydrates: ~34g
• Protein: 3g

Adjust based on glaze quantity and any added toppings like nuts or chocolate chips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different bread if I don’t have King’s Hawaiian for King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls?
You can, but the flavor and softness will differ. Brioche or milk bread are good substitutes, though they lack the distinct sweetness of Hawaiian rolls.

Do I need to toast or pre-bake the rolls?
No. The baking process will toast the top and warm the center perfectly.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute plant-based butter and cream cheese. Use almond or oat milk in the glaze.

How do I make a simpler glaze without cream cheese?
Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and a splash of vanilla for a classic icing drizzle.

What other toppings go well with this recipe?
Try mini chocolate chips, toasted coconut, or even crumbled red velvet brownies on top for a dessert fusion.

Final Thoughts

These King’s Hawaiian cinnamon rolls are proof that you don’t need complicated dough recipes to enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness of homemade rolls. With minimal effort and maximum payoff, they’re perfect for brunches, sleepovers, and last-minute cravings. Customize them with your favorite flavors and glazes, and enjoy a treat that tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Pair it with your favorite hot drink, or serve after a light main dish like crispy fish tacos with cilantro lime slaw for the perfect sweet ending.

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