Veg Recipes Mason Williams January 18, 2025 0 Comments

Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Hawaiian rolls are one of those treats that feel like a warm hug. Their soft texture, slightly sweet taste, and golden-brown crust make them a favorite at family dinners, holiday feasts, or even as a midday snack. If you’ve ever wondered how to create these delightful rolls at home, you’re in for a treat. This guide will take you step by step through a foolproof recipe to make homemade Hawaiian rolls that rival any store-bought version.

Table of Contents

Why Hawaiian Rolls Are So Special

Hawaiian rolls have a distinct flavor that sets them apart from regular dinner rolls. The secret lies in the unique combination of pineapple juice, eggs, butter, and just the right amount of sugar. These ingredients create a subtle sweetness and a pillowy texture that makes Hawaiian rolls perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or as a standalone indulgence.

I’ll never forget the first time I tried Hawaiian rolls. It was at a family barbecue, and I remember thinking, “Why don’t all rolls taste this good?” Since then, they’ve become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you.

Ingredients Needed for Making Homemade Hawaiian Rolls

To make about 12 to 16 rolls, you’ll need the following:

Dry Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (or one packet)
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

3/4 cup pineapple juice (room temperature)
1/4 cup warm milk (around 100°F)
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted and cooled slightly)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Brushing:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Hawaiian Rolls

1. Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the remaining sugar. Once combined, add the activated yeast mixture and stir well.

3. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment. Continue until a sticky but manageable dough forms.

4. Knead the Dough

If kneading by hand, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky.

5. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. A pro tip: If your kitchen is cold, preheat your oven to 200°F, turn it off, and let the dough rise inside.

6. Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into 12 to 16 equal portions. Roll each piece into a smooth ball and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion.

7. Second Rise

Cover the baking dish with a towel and let the rolls rise again for 30-45 minutes. They should puff up and touch each other slightly.

8. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter for a beautiful golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls sound hollow when tapped.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm with a pat of butter or as the base for your favorite slider recipe.

Tips for Making Perfect

Don’t Rush the Rise: Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for achieving the soft, fluffy texture Hawaiian rolls are known for.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your yeast is fresh and your pineapple juice is not expired for the best results.
Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer slightly less sweet rolls, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two.

Creative Ways to Use Hawaiian Rolls

Hawaiian rolls aren’t just for dinner. Here are a few fun ways to enjoy them:

Breakfast Sliders: Layer scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggie sausage for a hearty start to your day.
Mini Sandwiches: Use the rolls to make bite-sized sandwiches with hummus, roasted veggies, or avocado.
Dessert Rolls: Add a touch of cinnamon sugar to the dough and enjoy them as a sweet treat.

Conclusion

Making homemade Hawaiian rolls is a rewarding experience. The aroma of freshly baked rolls, combined with their soft and sweet flavor, makes all the effort worthwhile. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or using them for creative sandwiches, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Hawaiian rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

2. Can I freeze Hawaiian rolls?

Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, store the rolls in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.

3. Do I have to use pineapple juice?

Pineapple juice gives the rolls their signature flavor, but you can substitute orange juice or apple juice in a pinch. However, the taste will be slightly different.

4. Why didn’t my rolls rise?

Several factors can affect rising, including expired yeast, insufficient kneading, or a cold environment. Double-check your ingredients and ensure the dough is kept warm during the rise.