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These homemade Hawaiian rolls are light, fluffy, and kissed with the subtle pineapple flavor that makes them completely irresistible. Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner, a summer luau, or a casual game day spread, these sweet bread rolls are always the star of the show. Made with bread flour, pineapple juice, and a touch of vanilla extract, they offer the perfect balance of tropical sweetness and pillowy texture. Once you try baking them from scratch, you’ll never reach for store-bought again.
This recipe feels right at home among sweet dinner rolls, fluffy pineapple rolls, or pull-apart sweet rolls. If you’re into homemade Hawaiian sweet rolls or love that buttery tropical dinner roll flavor, this one hits the mark. Whether you call them golden Hawaiian rolls or soft sweet yeast rolls, they’ll remind you of your favorite store-bought brand- but better. This is a true copycat recipe that fits in any side dish rotation or holiday spread.
The Chemistry of Hawaiian Rolls
The key to that signature soft Hawaiian roll texture is the combination of enriched dough (thanks to eggs, milk, and butter) and acidity from the pineapple juice, which helps tenderize the gluten. Bread flour provides enough structure for a good rise, while a bit of all-purpose flour keeps the crumb delicate. The yeast gets activated by the warm liquid mixture, and two long rising periods ensures a pillowy softness. Finally, brushing the top with an egg wash gives you that classic golden brown finish a touch of extra flavor when finished with cold butter.
Recipe Troubleshooting
One issue is when the dough doesn’t rise well– this is usually because the yeast was inactive or the dough wasn’t left in a warm place. If the pineapple juice is too cold, it may slow the yeast, and if it’s too hot, it can kill it. Make sure your liquids are at room temperature.
Some bakers find their rolls come out dense– this could be from too much flour or not enough rising time.
Others find their pineapple flavor gets lost– be sure to use 100% pineapple juice.
Over-baking is also common and leads to dry rolls, while underbaking results in doughy centers. Use light-colored pans and check for a deep golden brown color.
If they browned too fast, its either your oven is too hot or you are baking in dark pans. Use light metal pans and a mid-rack bake to help prevent this.
How do I make them extra fluffy? Let the dough rise in a draft-free area and avoid adding too much flour.
Can I use fresh pineapple juice? Yes- just strain out pulp for best results.
Do I need to use bread flour? Bread flour gives a stronger structure, but you can use all-purpose if needed- just expect a softer, more delicate roll.
What’s the best glaze? A simple rub of cold butter over hot rolls is all you need.
They’re not sweet enough– try increasing granulated sugar slightly.
They stuck to the pan– always grease your pan thoroughly or line it with parchment.
They didn’t taste like King’s Hawaiian rolls– balance of pineapple juice, butter, and eggs is essential to get that iconic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls shine as Thanksgiving sweet rolls, Easter dinner rolls, or part of a Christmas bread roll basket. They’re trending as a part of Mother’s Day brunch rolls, Hawaiian BBQ side dishes, or luau party recipes. Think cookout bread ideas, spring baking recipes, or a perfect dish dish for ham. With tropical flavors becoming more popular, these are ideal for backyard gatherings or game day sliders.
Serve them warm with butter, or better yet, honey butter. Use them as mini sandwiches for pulled pork, ham and cheese, or roast beef sliders. Pair with dishes like teriyaki chicken, grilled pineapple shrimp, or macadamia nut salad. Serve in a rustic bread bowl, stack them in a basket with clean towel, or line a tray with colorful parchment for a festive flair. Brush the tops with extra melted butter and a pinch of kosher salt for an irresistible finish.
Use as sliders for pulled pork or turkey. Serve with soup or chili as the ultimate side dish. Try slicing and toasting with jam for breakfast, or layer with ham and honey mustard for party sandwiches. They also make amazing leftover turkey sandwiches post-holiday.
Storage Tips
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate and reheat briefly in the oven wrapped in foil.
Freezer– Freeze fully baked and cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat at 300 degrees F wrapped in aluminum foil for 15-20 minutes.
Making Ahead– Make the dough the day before, complete the first rise, then shape and place in pans. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature before baking the next day.
Recommended Products
Easy Hawaiian Rolls with Buttery Glaze
These homemade Hawaiian rolls are more than just bread- they’re soft, sweet little clouds of comfort. Perfect for everything form holiday dinners to easy weeknight sliders, they add a tropical twist to your table with just the right hint of pineapple juice and buttery richness. Try them once and you’ll never need another sweet roll recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying yeast dough for the first time, this one’s a keeper.
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Sweet Hawaiian Rolls with Pineapple Flavor
Ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tbsp instant yeast
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 5 cups bread flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- egg wash
- butter to glaze
Instructions
- In a standing mixer with the dough hook attachment add 1 cup cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup whole milk and 1 tbsp instant yeast. Mix to combine.
- Add in 5 tbsp softened butter, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract and two eggs. Mix until combined.
- Add 5 cups bread flour, 1/2 cup all-purpose flour and 1 tsp salt. Mix until a dough forms and then knead on slow for 5 minutes.
- Remove the bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel and place in a warm spot to rise for 2-3 hours.
- Once risen, place the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into 24 even peices.
- Roll each piece into a circle and place in two greased, 9×13 light-metal colored pans.
- Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise for another hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Egg wash the rolls by whisking 1 egg + 1 tbsp milk in a small bowl and painting on the top of each roll using a pastry brush.
- Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove, and while the rolls are still hot, take a few tablespoons of cold butter and rub the top of each roll to glaze. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Have you tried this recipe?
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Jayden
These are so soft and fluffy! I can even eat them even though I am gluten free!
Madison Reid
Wow! I am so happy to hear that 🙂 Longer rise times helps break down the gluten making it easier on your tummy.