Homemade Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

Homemade Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet rolls that are perfect for sandwiches, sliders, or as a side for dinner. With their golden tops and pillowy texture, these rolls are infused with a subtle tropical flavor from pineapple juice and a hint of honey, giving them that signature taste you know and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These rolls strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. They’re made with wholesome ingredients and no preservatives, giving you fresher and better-tasting bread than store-bought. The pineapple juice and honey create a light sweetness that enhances everything from pulled pork to a simple pat of butter. Plus, the dough is easy to work with, making it ideal for beginner and experienced bakers alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Pineapple juice
• Whole milk
• Active dry yeast
• Honey
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Eggs
• Salt

directions

this recipe

1. Warm the pineapple juice and milk to about 110°F (43°C). Stir in the honey and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape into rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Cover and let rise again for about 45 minutes until puffy.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
8. Brush warm rolls with melted butter, if desired. Cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rise Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

• Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Coconut Twist: Add a tablespoon of coconut milk or shredded coconut to the dough.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg.
• Mini Slider Rolls: Divide dough into 16 smaller rolls for party-sized sandwiches.
• Garlic Butter Topping: Mix garlic into the melted butter before brushing for a savory finish.

storage/reheating

Store cooled rolls in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds per roll. For longer storage, freeze rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.

FAQs

What makes Hawaiian rolls sweet?

The sweetness comes from pineapple juice, honey, and a small amount of sugar, which give these rolls their distinct flavor.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in equal amounts. Mix it directly with the dry ingredients and skip the proofing step.

Do I have to use pineapple juice?

Pineapple juice gives the rolls their unique taste, but in a pinch, orange juice or apple juice can be used for a slightly different flavor.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough?

The dough should double in size and hold an indentation when gently pressed with your finger.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight after the first rise. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Why are my rolls dense?

Over-kneading or not letting the dough rise fully can cause dense rolls. Ensure you allow proper rise times and knead just until smooth.

Can I add fillings like cheese or ham?

Absolutely. Flatten each dough piece, add your desired filling, and seal it before shaping into a ball.

What should the internal temperature of the rolls be?

Fully baked rolls should reach an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C).

Can I make these gluten-free?

It’s not recommended to substitute gluten-free flour directly as it affects the texture. Look for a specific gluten-free Hawaiian roll recipe.

How do I get the tops shiny?

Brush the rolls with melted butter right after baking or an egg wash before baking for a glossy golden crust.

Conclusion

Homemade Hawaiian Sweet Rolls are a delightful addition to any meal—fluffy, tender, and lightly sweet with a touch of island flavor. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven, used for sliders, or toasted with butter, these rolls are sure to become a household favorite. Once you taste the homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought.

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