1. Home
  2. Dishes
  3. Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon

Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon

Category: Treats That Make Everything Better

Enjoy soft Hawaiian sweet rolls elevated with luscious cream cheese and a swirl of warm cinnamon brown sugar. The golden-topped rolls are filled generously, offering tangy and sweet flavors in every bite. Begin by preparing a simple cream cheese mixture and brushing butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon inside each roll. Fill and bake until golden and fragrant, letting the decadent aroma fill your kitchen. Serve these warm for breakfast, as a sweet brunch addition, or as an indulgent snack at gatherings. Each bite guarantees a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spiced goodness—an easy treat that will stand out on any table.

Pin It Share Send Print Jump to Recipe
Lili Clark smiling at the camera.
Created By Lili Clark
Updated on Thu, 06 Nov 2025 16:41:24 GMT
Three pieces of cinnamon rolls with cream cheese. Save
Three pieces of cinnamon rolls with cream cheese. | lilicooks.com

Kings Hawaiian cream cheese cinnamon rolls bring together soft buttery rolls with a sweet spiced swirl and creamy filling. They are one of those treats that vanish fast from a brunch table or dessert spread. I love how easily they come together and how every bite feels like warm comfort.

The first time I tried these was for a weekend breakfast with my nieces They could not believe how soft and gooey they turned out and they have requested these cinnamon rolls for every family sleepover since

Ingredients

  • Kings Hawaiian original sweet rolls: The pillowy base that gives a unique sweetness Look for the original version for the classic flavor
  • Salted butter melted: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar soak in Opt for European style butter if you like extra depth
  • Brown sugar: Brings caramel notes and moisture to the filling Choose soft and fresh crystals for best melting
  • Ground cinnamon: Delivers the classic warmth and spice Choose fresh fragrant cinnamon for full flavor
  • Softened cream cheese: The heart of the creamy filling It should be fully soft for smooth blending
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling without overpowering it Use fine white sugar for best texture
  • Egg: Helps set the filling so it is luscious and never runny Pick a fresh large egg for smoothness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rolls:
Preheat your oven to the listed temperature and grease a 9x13 baking dish well to avoid sticking Place the sweet rolls in the dish and use a small paring knife to cut a square on the top of each roll Gently pull out a little bread from the center but do not pierce through the bottom This creates space for the creamy filling
Make and Brush the Cinnamon Mixture:
Melt the butter and stir in brown sugar and cinnamon until completely combined Use a pastry brush to coat both the tops and the inside cavities of each roll completely This ensures every bite has the classic warm cinnamon toast flavor
Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
Beat the softened cream cheese on medium until entirely smooth This step helps avoid lumps Add sugar and egg and continue beating until fully creamy and uniform
Fill and Bake:
Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each hollowed out roll filling generously Bake in the preheated oven until the tops are golden and the filling is set Cool just slightly before slicing and serving so the filling is still silky
A plate of cinnamon rolls with cream cheese. Save
A plate of cinnamon rolls with cream cheese. | lilicooks.com

Brown sugar might be my favorite part here because it creates gooey melted spots inside the roll My family always gathers around the oven while these bake and we have to resist sneaking a roll before they have cooled enough

Storage Tips

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven for best taste The texture stays soft and you can even freeze them just wrap well and thaw overnight before warming

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use unsalted butter and add a small sprinkle of sea salt to the butter mixture Plain brioche buns can work in place of Kings Hawaiian rolls though the flavor will be slightly less sweet If you want it lighter use reduced fat cream cheese though I love the richness of the full version

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm for breakfast brunch or dessert Some people like to drizzle additional melted butter and sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for more decadence A side of fresh berries adds a tart contrast

A plate of cinnamon rolls with cream cheese on top. Save
A plate of cinnamon rolls with cream cheese on top. | lilicooks.com

Cultural and Historical Context

Cinnamon rolls have deep roots in many cultures but this recipe is an American spin with the distinct sweet rolls from Hawaii The creamy filling nods to a cheesecake influence making this a true comfort fusion food

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other types of bread for this treat?

While King's Hawaiian rolls add extra sweetness, you can use any soft dinner rolls for a similar texture and flavor.

→ How do I keep the filling from leaking out while baking?

Make sure to carefully remove only the top section of each roll, keeping the base intact so the cream cheese filling stays inside as it bakes.

→ Can these rolls be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, fill the rolls and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best warmth and freshness.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Leftover rolls can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Warm briefly before serving for best texture.

→ Can I add nuts or fruit to the filling?

Absolutely! A sprinkle of chopped pecans or a few raisins in the cream cheese layer add extra flavor and texture.

Kings Hawaiian Cream Cheese Cinnamon

Pillowy rolls filled with rich cream cheese and cinnamon, perfect for sharing at any time of day.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
15 min
Overall Time
25 min
Created By: Lili Clark

Category: Desserts

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves (12 rolls)

Dietary Options: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Rolls

01 12-count package King's Hawaiian original sweet rolls
02 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
03 2 tablespoons brown sugar
04 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

→ Cream Cheese Filling

05 8 ounces softened cream cheese
06 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
07 1 egg

Steps

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 02

Place the King's Hawaiian rolls in the baking dish. Carefully cut a small square in the top of each roll and gently pull out some of the bread, ensuring not to cut through the bottom.

Step 03

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well-combined. Generously brush the mixture over the tops and insides of each roll to ensure they are well-coated.

Step 04

In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and egg, and mix until the mixture is creamy and well-blended.

Step 05

Carefully fill each prepared roll with the cream cheese mixture, distributing generously into the cavities.

Step 06

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rolls are golden and the cream cheese filling is set.

Step 07

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before slicing into individual portions. Serve warm for the best experience.

Tips

  1. Ensure rolls are not overfilled with the cream cheese mixture to avoid spills during baking.
  2. For an enhanced flavor, sprinkle additional cinnamon on top of the rolls before baking.

Required Tools

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer
  • Pastry brush

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains gluten (wheat)
  • Contains dairy (butter, cream cheese)
  • Contains eggs

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 245
  • Fats: 13 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Proteins: 5 g