I’m so excited to share this Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe with you because it’s truly a game-changer. Imagine soft, fluffy King’s Hawaiian rolls swirled with sweet cinnamon and creamy cheese, baked into golden perfection — it’s like a warm hug first thing in the morning. Every bite is buttery and tender, with a luscious cream cheese filling that makes these cinnamon rolls stand out in the best way.

What I love most is how easy it is to take this recipe from simple ingredients to a show-stopping breakfast or dessert that your family will absolutely love. Whether you’re making a weekend brunch or a special holiday treat, these cinnamon rolls deliver on both flavor and comfort. I promise once you try this Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, they’ll become your go-to for any occasion!

🤍

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Extra Fluffy Texture: King’s Hawaiian rolls give a uniquely soft and tender crumb that’s hard to beat.
  • Cream Cheese Filling Magic: The smooth cream cheese filling adds a subtle tang and richness that perfectly balances the sweetness.
  • Simple Yet Impressive: You don’t need fancy skills here — just a little patience and a warm oven will do the trick.
  • Perfect for Gatherings: These rolls disappear fast at family breakfasts and special occasions alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe come together beautifully to create a balance of sweet, creamy, and cinnamon-spiced flavors. You’ll find that using quality cream cheese and real cinnamon really elevates the final result.

  • Kings Hawaiian Rolls: This is the star of the recipe — their softness and slight sweetness are unmatched.
  • Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
  • Butter: Unsalted is best so you can control the salt balance in the filling.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a deep caramel flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
  • Ground Cinnamon: The key spice for that classic cinnamon roll taste.
  • Powdered Sugar: Used in the glaze for a silky, sweet finish.
  • Milk: A splash adds smoothness to the glaze and softens the cream cheese filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Just a touch boosts all the flavors.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a perfect base to customize however you like. Whether you want to turn it into a chocolate lover’s delight or lighten it up with some fresh fruit, there’s so much room to play.

  • Add Chocolate Chips: I sometimes sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a little extra indulgence.
  • Swap for Vegan Options: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter to make it vegan-friendly — it still tastes amazing, promise!
  • Fruit Twist: Mixing in some diced apples or berries adds a fresh and slightly tart contrast that brightens up the rolls.
  • Maple Cinnamon Glaze: For fall vibes, drizzle a maple-infused glaze instead of the classic powdered sugar one.

How to Make Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Rolls

Start by slicing the Kings Hawaiian rolls horizontally, carefully opening them up without tearing, since you want to keep that soft texture intact. I find it easier to use a serrated knife and cut slowly to avoid squishing the rolls. Lay them flat with the cut side up in a baking dish or pan lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Mix softened cream cheese, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. I’ve learned that whisking it vigorously helps avoid lumps and gets a silky texture, plus you want those flavors to meld just right. This filling is where the magic happens, so take your time to get it just right!

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cut side of the rolls. Then, gently press the top halves of the rolls back on. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, and then uncover and bake for another 5-7 minutes until golden and bubbly. You’ll see the cream cheese filling oozing lightly and the cinnamon scent filling your kitchen — so good!

Step 4: Add the Glaze

While the rolls are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a simple glaze, then drizzle generously over the top. This glaze melts a bit from the heat, soaking lightly into the rolls for that perfect sticky-sweet finish. If you want extra flair, sprinkle a touch more cinnamon or chopped nuts on top.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

  • Soften Your Cream Cheese Properly: I’ve found that room temperature cream cheese blends more smoothly, so take it out at least 30 minutes before mixing.
  • Don’t Overbake: Because the rolls are already soft, just warm them until the filling bubbles; overbaking dries them out.
  • Use a Gentle Hand When Slicing: This keeps your rolls intact and looking beautiful when served.
  • Let Glaze Set Slightly: Wait a few minutes after drizzling the glaze before cutting so it doesn’t all run off.

How to Serve Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

A red bowl with white chain pattern holds a creamy base mixed with chunks of green apple and chopped chocolate candy pieces with nuts. The creamy layer is off-white and thick, filling the bowl almost to the top. On top, there are larger pieces of bright green apple and chunky chocolate candy pieces scattered evenly around. A caramel-colored sauce is being poured from a jar held by a woman's hand onto the top, creating thin, shiny drizzles over the whole dish. The bowl is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to keep the garnishes simple but inviting— a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or toasted coconut adds a lovely texture contrast and a hint of nuttiness. Sometimes I dust a bit of cinnamon on top right before serving to deepen the spice aroma.

Side Dishes

Cinnamon rolls are a treat on their own, but pairing them with fresh fruit like berries or a light yogurt makes for a balanced breakfast plate. For brunch, I love serving them alongside scrambled eggs or a crisp green salad to cut through the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

A fun idea I recently tried was serving individual rolls in cute ramekins with extra glaze drizzled on top for a personalized touch. Another time, I rolled them into a large pull-apart cinnamon roll loaf for an impressive centerpiece that everyone can dig into together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I wrap leftover rolls tightly with plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep nicely for 3-4 days without losing their soft, gooey charm. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before reheating.

Freezing

These rolls freeze beautifully! I like to wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them all in a freezer bag. When I’m ready to enjoy, I thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in the oven the next day. Freezing doesn’t affect flavor or texture much, which is a big win for me.

Reheating

For reheating, I find wrapping the rolls loosely in foil and warming them at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes keeps them moist and soft. If you’re in a rush, a quick zap in the microwave (20-30 seconds) works, but watch carefully to avoid drying them out.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular hamburger buns instead of Kings Hawaiian rolls?

    Regular buns don’t have the same sweetness and fluff that King’s Hawaiian rolls offer, so your cinnamon rolls might turn out denser or less flavorful. I recommend using Kings Hawaiian rolls if possible to capture that signature soft texture and hint of sweetness.

  2. Is it okay to make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

    Absolutely! You can assemble the cinnamon rolls the night before, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Then, bake them fresh in the morning for an easy, stress-free breakfast.

  3. How do I prevent the cream cheese filling from leaking out during baking?

    Be careful not to overstuff the rolls with filling. A thin, even layer spreads best and bakes without spilling. Also, pressing the top half down gently after spreading helps seal in the filling.

  4. Can I add nuts or raisins to these cinnamon rolls?

    Yes! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins make great additions that add texture and flavor. I usually sprinkle them into the cream cheese mixture or directly onto the rolls before baking.

  5. What’s the best way to reheat leftover cinnamon rolls?

    Reheat wrapped loosely in foil in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes to thaw and warm evenly. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent them from drying out, unless you do it in short bursts and check frequently.

Final Thoughts

This Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen rotation because it’s just that good — effortless to prepare, incredibly fluffy, and full of cozy flavor. I think you’ll enjoy how it makes your mornings feel a little more special, and your family will ask for it again and again. So go ahead, grab those King’s Hawaiian rolls and get baking; you’re in for a delicious treat!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 128 reviews
  • Author: Bertha
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A delightful and easy-to-make dessert salad combining crisp Granny Smith apples with sweet Snickers candy bars, creamy vanilla pudding, and whipped topping, finished with a luscious caramel drizzle. Perfect for potlucks and gatherings.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Apples & Candy

  • 4-5 Medium to Large Granny Smith Apples
  • 20 Miniature Snickers Candy Bars or 6 full size Snickers Bars

Pudding & Dairy

  • 3.4 oz Package of Instant Vanilla Pudding
  • 3/4 cup Whole Milk
  • 8 oz Container of Cool Whip, thawed

Topping

  • 1/4 cup Caramel Sauce for drizzling over the top

Instructions

  1. Prepare Apples and Snickers: Cut the Granny Smith apples and Snickers bars into small bite-sized pieces. Set aside about 1/2 cup of diced apples and Snickers to use later as a garnish.
  2. Make Vanilla Pudding Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the instant vanilla pudding package and 3/4 cup of whole milk. Using a hand mixer or whisk, mix until the pudding thickens and becomes creamy.
  3. Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold the thawed Cool Whip into the pudding mixture to create a smooth, fluffy texture.
  4. Add Apples and Snickers: Stir the remaining diced apples and Snickers bars into the pudding and whipped topping mixture until evenly combined.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to let the flavors meld and the mixture firm up.
  6. Garnish and Serve: When ready to serve, sprinkle the reserved diced apples and Snickers on top and drizzle the caramel sauce liberally over the salad for a sweet finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness that balances the sweetness of Snickers and caramel.
  • For a less sweet option, reduce the caramel sauce amount or use a sugar-free variety.
  • This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 24 hours for freshness.
  • Can be made a few hours ahead to save time on the day of serving.
  • Variations include substituting Snickers with other candy bars like Milky Way or Butterfinger.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/16 of recipe (approx. 1/2 cup)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star