Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the comforting smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. It’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a sweet whisper of nostalgia that transports us back to simpler times. I’ve spent countless afternoons in the kitchen alongside my beloved grandmother, who would whip up her famous rolls with love and care, using her secret ingredient: a dash of joy. Today, I’m excited to share my take on those tender, fluffy bites with these Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls. Whether for a cozy holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, these rolls are sure to steal the show. Trust me, they’re the kind of dreamy fluffiness that you’ll want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender & Fluffy Texture: These rolls have a pillowy softness that just melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holiday dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy family meal; they are universally loved.
- Easy to Follow: This recipe is perfect for home bakers of all levels — no experience required!
- Sweet Tropical Flavor: The hint of pineapple and vanilla makes these rolls uniquely tasty and inviting.
- Crowd-Pleasing: With 15 rolls per batch, there’s plenty to share (or keep for yourself!).
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients for your Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 3 tsps instant yeast
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsps unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 whole eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup whole milk (lukewarm)
- ¾ tsp salt
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 whole egg
- 2 tsps milk
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter (melted)
Let’s Make It Together
In a stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix with a whisk until just combined.
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the eggs, pineapple juice, milk, and vanilla extract.
Using the hook attachment, knead on low speed for 5 minutes. Gradually add in the softened butter while mixing, and continue to mix for 2 more minutes until the dough comes together.
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with cling wrap, and allow it to proof for 1½ to 2 hours until it has doubled in size (this may vary depending on the temperature of your room).
Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into 15 equal-sized balls, and line the dough balls into a 9 x 13 non-stick or lined baking dish (or spray with non-stick baking spray), arranging them in 5 rows by 3. Cover and let the dough rest for at least another hour until the dough balls double in size.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Brush the dough balls with the egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 2 tsps of milk) and place the baking tray on the middle rack of the oven. Bake the rolls for 22-25 minutes until the tops are golden.
Once they come out of the oven, brush them with melted butter. Allow to cool for at least 5-7 minutes before serving.
Delicious Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered these Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls, consider trying these fun twists:
Coconut Bliss: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a delightful, tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with the pineapple.
Cinnamon Swirls: Roll out the dough, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, then roll it up before cutting into pieces for a cinnamon roll effect!
Savory Herb Rolls: Toss in some dried herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for an earthy flavor that complements savory dishes beautifully.
Cheesy Delights: Fold in some shredded cheese into the dough for a rich and savory take on these rolls.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it warm to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Ingredient Swaps: No pineapple juice? You can use orange juice for a different fruity twist!
Storage Suggestions: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month. Just reheat to enjoy that fresh-baked goodness again!
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 210
- Total Carbohydrates: 33g
- Sugar: 8g
- Total Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite fruit juices or even add different herbs and spices.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for later enjoyment.
How long do they last?
Refrigerated, they should last about 3 days, while frozen versions can be kept for up to a month.
A Cozy Closing Note
These Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls are more than just a recipe; they are a way to connect with loved ones, to celebrate gatherings, or simply to indulge in a sweet treat while sipping on a warm cup of tea. There’s truly something special about pulling apart a soft, warm roll right from the oven. Save this Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls recipe to your cozy baking Pinterest board so it’s ready for when you need a comforting touch in your kitchen! Happy baking, friends!
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Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 15 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender and fluffy Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls with a hint of pineapple and vanilla, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 3 tsps instant yeast
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsps unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 whole eggs (room temperature)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup whole milk (lukewarm)
- ¾ tsp salt
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 whole egg (for egg wash)
- 2 tsps milk (for egg wash)
- 2 tbsps unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)
Instructions
- Combine all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt in a stand mixer; mix with a whisk.
- Create a well in the center and add eggs, pineapple juice, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Knead on low speed for 5 minutes, adding softened butter, and mix for 2 more minutes until the dough comes together.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with cling wrap, and let it proof for 1½ to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide into 15 equal balls and line in a baking dish.
- Cover and let the dough balls rest for at least another hour until they double in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with egg wash and bake for 22-25 minutes until golden.
- Brush with melted butter after removing from oven; cool for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Notes
Try adding shredded coconut or creating cinnamon swirls for fun variations. Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg






