
Turn plain Hawaiian rolls into fancy cream cheese-filled bites that seem like they're from a high-end bakery. This smart trick converts basic items into mouthwatering sweet rolls in just 25 minutes. Great for fancy breakfasts or a rich dessert, these cream cheese rolls blend store-bought ease with a homemade touch.
These rolls became what I'm known for at family get-togethers after catching my sister-in-law sneaking two into her handbag during our Christmas morning meal. They're so simple yet taste incredible, making regular mornings feel extra special.
Delicious Success Components
Kings Hawaiian Rolls give you that distinct sweet foundation that other breads just can't match
Cream cheese at room temperature makes for a velvety filling with no bumps
Salted butter cuts through the sweetness and adds a wonderful richness

Dark brown sugar adds rich caramel undertones throughout
Freshly ground cinnamon brings cozy warmth and that classic roll taste
Making Sweet Magic
Cut out the centers of each roll with a serrated knife, making ideal pockets for your filling.
Whip the softened cream cheese until it's totally smooth, then mix in the room temperature egg.
Heat butter just until it's melted, then stir in your cinnamon and sugar mix.
Squeeze cream cheese mixture into each hollowed roll, filling them almost completely.
Coat rolls with the cinnamon-butter blend, making sure they're covered evenly.
Cook until they turn golden, but keep an eye on them to keep their centers creamy.

Experimenting with this recipe taught me that taking your time with the cream cheese filling really matters. One morning I was in a hurry and used cold cream cheese - the chunky mess showed me some steps just need proper time.
Perfect Companions
Make breakfast extra special by putting these cream cheese rolls next to some fresh berries and hot coffee. For brunch with friends, set them on a tiered plate with fruit on sticks and yogurt parfaits. During Christmas or Thanksgiving mornings, serve them alongside a festive coffee cake and cranberry mimosas for a real treat.
Tasty Twists
Change these rolls to fit any mood or event. Mix some orange zest into your cream cheese for a citrusy kick, or throw in tiny chocolate chips for a rich chocolate-cinnamon combo. Make fruit versions by adding a small spoonful of jam before baking, or go seasonal with pumpkin spice or maple pecan flavors.
Staying Fresh
Keep these rolls tasting great by storing them right. Put them in a sealed container in your fridge for up to two days, though they taste best if you eat them within a day. When you want to enjoy them, warm them in the microwave for 15 seconds to bring back that gooey, just-baked feel.
Not Just For Morning
These handy rolls work great any time of day. They've become a hit at afternoon teas, book clubs, and late-night snack runs. Once, these rolls turned an ordinary family movie night into something really special, showing that sometimes the best moments aren't planned at all.
Breakfast Traditions
Make everyday mornings feel special with these cream cheese-stuffed goodies. They've become our go-to for first school days, holiday breakfasts, and good news celebrations. Just making these rolls brings the family together, creating bonding time over shared treats.
Expert Advice
Set rolls snugly together in your baking dish so they hold their shape while cooking
A pastry bag makes filling them neat and simple

Keep a close eye on baking time to maintain that creamy middle
My adventure with these Hawaiian cream cheese rolls has brought so many happy discoveries and shared moments. They've gone from just a simple recipe to a treasured part of our family customs, bringing happiness to countless gatherings. Just remember, it's not about getting everything perfect - it's about making sweet moments and memories around your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Prepare early?
- Tastes best fresh, keeps 2 days chilled.
- → Extra toppings?
- Add berries before throwing in the oven.
- → How to enjoy?
- Best eaten warm for flavor and texture.
- → Filling too soft?
- Pop the cream cheese into the fridge briefly.
- → Storage tips?
- Store cold in the fridge up to 2 days.