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The Irresistible Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Hawaiian Rolls are delectable, fluffy yeast rolls that are sure to captivate your taste buds. With a buttery texture and a hint of sweetness from pineapple juice, these rolls are perfect for any occasion.

Not only are they light and moist, but they surpass any store-bought version you might find. Prepare to be amazed at how simple it is to whip up a batch of these rolls in your very own kitchen.

Steps for Creating Hawaiian Rolls

Follow the recipe and allow the dough to rise twice.
Divide the dough into 12 pieces and roll them into balls or braid them into three long strips.
Transfer the rolls into two greased 9×13 pans and let them proof for another hour.
Brush the tops with melted butter.
Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Refer to the printable recipe card below for detailed measurements and ingredients.

Ingredients Needed

5 to 6 cups of bread flour
1½ cups of pineapple juice
4½ teaspoons of active dry yeast
⅔ cup of granulated sugar (divided)
½ cup of butter (at room temperature)
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon of salt
Melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Instructions for Making Hawaiian Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare two 9×13-inch baking pans by lining them with parchment paper. Set them aside for later.
Gently heat the pineapple juice in a small saucepan over low heat until it reaches 109°F. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
Turn off the heat and allow the juice to cool until it reaches 105°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Then pour in the warm pineapple juice and let it sit for about 10 minutes until bubbly.
Stir in the remaining sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and eggs until everything is well mixed.
Gradually add 3 cups of flour and salt using a dough hook on low speed. Mix until the dough starts to come together but still feels sticky.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for around 2 minutes.
Place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with plastic wrap and a warm towel, and let it rise in a warm area until it has doubled in size; this will take about 2 hours.
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into approximately 16 equal pieces. Shape them into round balls.
Place the rolls into the prepared pans, ensuring there’s some space between them, and cover with plastic wrap. Allow them to rise again for 1 hour.
When ready, bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
As soon as you remove them from the oven, brush the tops generously with melted butter for that extra touch of flavor.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Rolls

To create a warm environment for rising, try preheating your oven to 200°F for about 30 minutes, then turning it off and placing the covered dough inside.
Ensure the water temperature is warm to your wrist (around 105°F) when mixing with the yeast to activate it properly.
Keep an eye on proofing times—they can vary. To check if your dough is ready, gently press it with your fingertip. If it bounces back slightly, it’s ready to bake; if it leaves an indentation, pop it in the oven!
Feel free to experiment with shapes; you can create ropes, braids, or even a simple round loaf.
Want to make a big batch? These rolls freeze perfectly and can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Shapes You Can Make

Round pan rolls
Criss-cross designs
Braided long loaves
Round braided loaves
Classic long loaves
Any decorative moldable shaped pans
Simple round balls to make rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

While bread flour gives a better texture and rise due to its higher protein content, you can substitute all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind the rolls may be slightly less chewy.

2. What can I do if my rolls don’t rise?

If the rolls don’t rise, check if your yeast is still active. Adding old yeast to warm water should create a frothy reaction. If it doesn’t, it’s time for new yeast.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

4. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and complete the first rise, then shape the rolls and place them in the pan. Cover and chill in the fridge overnight, allowing them to complete the second rise before baking.