There’s something truly magical about homemade Hawaiian sweet rolls. With their soft, pillowy texture and just the right amount of sweetness, these rolls make any meal feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a holiday gathering, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
You’ll love how easy it is to make these hawaiian sweet rolls from scratch. The delightful aroma of pineapple and honey fills your home as they bake, and the tender crumb paired with a slightly glossy, golden crust is simply irresistible. Let’s get started on this recipe everyone will love!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Soft, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Mild pineapple sweetness adds a unique tropical flavor.
- Perfectly golden crust with a shiny honey glaze.
- Great for sandwiches, sliders, or as a dinner roll.
- Made with simple pantry ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your own batch of homemade Hawaiian sweet rolls. The pineapple juice and honey are key to achieving that signature sweet flavor and tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice, warm (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup whole milk, warm (about 110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon melted butter, for brushing
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including rising)
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Calories: Approximately 180 per roll
How to Make Homemade Hawaiian Sweet Rolls – Recipe Everyone Will Love
- In a small bowl, combine the warm pineapple juice, warm milk, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, honey, melted butter, and egg until well combined. Add the yeast mixture and stir.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. If too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and place them close together in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 20-25 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and brush again with melted butter for a shiny, soft crust. Let the rolls cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh, active dry yeast and proof it in warm liquid to ensure it’s alive and bubbly.
- Don’t rush the rising times; the dough needs to double in size for the best texture.
- Keep the dough covered with a damp towel or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Adjust flour quantity as needed; dough should be soft but not overly sticky.
- Brush with butter while warm to keep rolls tender and flavorful.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Hawaiian sweet rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm the rolls in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave individually for 15-20 seconds. Brushing with a little butter before warming helps refresh their softness and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, bread flour can be used and will yield a chewier texture due to its higher protein content. However, all-purpose flour produces a softer, tender roll which is typical for Hawaiian sweet rolls.
What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice or a mix of apple juice and a teaspoon of vinegar for acidity. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
To make vegan rolls, substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative. Use a flax egg or another egg replacer instead of the egg.
How do I keep the rolls soft for longer?
Storing the rolls in an airtight container and brushing them with melted butter after reheating helps maintain their softness. Avoid refrigerating for long periods as it can dry out the bread.
