Sweet Paradise: Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Tropical Bliss

Mixing classic Hawaiian cinnamon rolls with unexpected tropical flavors creates a morning treat that surprises every bite.

Sweet pineapple and warm spices dance through soft, pillowy dough.

Bakers love how these rolls blend comfort with island-inspired excitement.

Fragrant cinnamon swirls promise something magical beyond standard breakfast pastries.

Soft layers promise delectable moments of pure indulgence.

Each spiral tells a story of culinary adventure waiting to unfold.

You’ll want to savor every delicious moment of this delightful recipe.

Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls That Taste Like a Tropical Dream

• Quick and Easy Preparation: Whip up these rolls in just over an hour with simple mixing and kneading techniques perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Tropical Flavor Explosion: Infuse traditional cinnamon rolls with vibrant pineapple juice, creating a unique Hawaiian-inspired taste that sets these apart from ordinary breakfast treats.
• No-Fuss Family Favorite: Delight kids and adults alike with a comforting, sweet bread that combines familiar cinnamon roll warmth with an exciting tropical twist, making it ideal for weekend breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these rolls as a breakfast centerpiece, afternoon snack, or dessert, guaranteeing smiles and second helpings from everyone at the table.

Hawaiian Cinnamon Roll Ingredients

• Flour: The base for the soft, fluffy texture of the rolls.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast growth.
• Yeast: Essential for making the dough rise and creating light rolls.

• Pineapple Juice: Brings tropical Hawaiian flavor and helps tenderize the dough.
• Milk: Adds richness and moisture to the rolls.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• Melted Butter: Adds richness, flavor, and helps create a soft texture.

• Cinnamon: Classic spice that complements the tropical pineapple notes.

Cinnamon Rolls with Tropical Twist Bake Steps

Step 1: Whip Up the Dough Foundation

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and toss in flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.

Pour in warm pineapple juice and milk, then crack in eggs and drizzle melted butter.

Stir everything until a soft, supple dough emerges.

Knead the dough with passion for 5-7 minutes, working it until silky smooth.

Step 2: Let the Dough Dance and Rise

Transfer the dough to a generously greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel.

Nestle the bowl in a cozy, warm spot and let the magic happen.

Watch as the dough transforms, rising and expanding for about an hour until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Tropical Filling

• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Softened butter
• Crushed pineapple
• Shredded coconut

Blend these ingredients into a luscious, fragrant mixture that will make taste buds dance.

Step 4: Roll Out the Tropical Goodness

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a flour-dusted surface into a generous rectangle.

Spread the tropical filling generously across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 5: Shape and Slice the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a scrumptious log.

Slice the log into even rounds using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Arrange the rolls in a buttered baking dish, giving them room to expand.

Step 6: Final Rise and Bake

Cover the rolls and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.

Preheat the oven and bake until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.

Step 7: Craft a Tropical Glaze

• Powdered sugar
• Pineapple juice
• Vanilla extract

Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls and sprinkle with toasted coconut for the ultimate Hawaiian touch.

Baking Advice For Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Use fresh, high-quality pineapple juice for an authentic tropical flavor that elevates the entire roll.
• Heat pineapple juice and milk to lukewarm (around 110°F) to activate yeast without killing it, ensuring perfect rise and texture.
• Work the dough thoroughly for 5-7 minutes to develop gluten, creating soft and fluffy rolls with a delicate crumb.
• Place dough in a draft-free, warm spot like a slightly heated oven or near a sunny window to help it rise evenly and consistently.
• Gently press the dough – if it springs back slowly, it's perfectly proofed and ready for the next step in your Hawaiian cinnamon roll adventure.

Storing Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls

• Store leftover Hawaiian cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
• Seal cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container for maximum 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Warm gently in microwave for 15-20 seconds. For crisp edges, use toaster oven at 300°F for 2-3 minutes.
• Transfer from freezer to refrigerator overnight. Warm in oven at 325°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through and soft.

Cinnamon Rolls With a Hawaiian Twist

• Tropical Rum Cocktail Pairing: Blend a refreshing Mai Tai with pineapple juice, white rum, and a splash of orange liqueur to complement the sweet and tangy Hawaiian roll flavors.
• Creamy Coconut Dipping Sauce: Whip up a smooth coconut cream sauce with a hint of vanilla and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes to enhance the tropical essence of the rolls.
• Morning Coffee Companion: Serve these rolls alongside a rich, medium-roast Kona coffee from Hawaii, bringing out the warm cinnamon notes and creating a delightful breakfast experience.
• Tropical Fruit Salad Side: Prepare a fresh fruit salad with diced mango, papaya, and additional pineapple chunks to add a vibrant, juicy contrast to the sweet, spiced rolls.

Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Tropical Flavors

• Gluten-Free Tropical Rolls: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend using rice and almond flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the soft texture.
• Vegan Pineapple Cinnamon Rolls: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and coconut oil instead of butter to create a dairy-free and egg-free alternative.
• Low-Sugar Hawaiian Rolls: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while keeping the classic roll's rich flavor profile.
• Whole Wheat Tropical Variation: Incorporate whole wheat flour for added nutrition, using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain a light texture.

FAQs

• What makes Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls different from traditional rolls?

The tropical twist comes from using pineapple juice in the dough, which adds a subtle sweetness and unique flavor that sets these rolls apart from classic cinnamon rolls.

• Can I use regular milk instead of pineapple juice?

While you can substitute milk, pineapple juice is key to achieving the authentic Hawaiian flavor. If you must substitute, try using half milk and half pineapple juice to maintain some of the tropical essence.

• How do I know when the dough has risen properly?

The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and feels puffy when gently pressed. In a warm environment, this typically takes about 1 hour, but it can vary depending on room temperature.

• Is kneading important for this recipe?

Yes, kneading develops the gluten in the flour, which gives the rolls their soft, tender texture. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Sweet Hawaiian cinnamon rolls blend island charm with comforting bakery magic, offering warm spices and delicate coconut hints. Pillowy dough and rich filling promise a delightful breakfast escape you can savor with each delectable bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) pineapple juice, warmed
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) whole milk, warmed
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Fats and Sugars:

• 1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (7 grams) instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) sweetened coconut flakes
• 23 tablespoons coconut milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Amalgamate dry ingredients – flour, sugar, salt, and yeast – in a spacious mixing vessel.
2. Incorporate warmed pineapple juice, milk, eggs, and liquefied butter into the dry mixture, creating a cohesive, supple dough.
3. Vigorously knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until achieving a silky, elastic consistency.
4. Transfer the dough to a generously greased receptacle, envelop with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to proof in a draft-free, temperate environment.
5. Monitor the dough’s expansion, waiting until it has substantially increased in volume, approximately one hour.

Notes

• Enhance the tropical flavor by using fresh, ripe pineapple juice for a more authentic Hawaiian taste.
• Choose high-quality bread flour to ensure a soft, pillowy texture that complements the sweet pineapple essence.
• Adjust rising time based on kitchen temperature, looking for the dough to double in size and feel light and airy.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and add xanthan gum for better texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 248
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 154 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 47 mg