Hawaiian Rolls – Soft, Sweet, and Buttery Dinner Rolls

Everyone loves a soft, slightly sweet dinner roll that melts in the mouth with every bite. These delightful rolls offer a subtle tropical flavor thanks to pineapple juice and honey, elevating any meal whether it’s a holiday feast, sandwich base, or simple snack. Hawaiian rolls bring a fluffy, tender texture and a hint of sweetness that make them a crowd favorite year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet tropical flavor: Pineapple juice adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• Soft and fluffy: Tender crumb that’s perfect for sandwiches or alongside meals.
• Versatile: Great for sliders, pulled pork buns, or classic dinner rolls.
• Make ahead: Dough can be prepared in advance for convenience.
• Kid-friendly: Loved by all ages for their soft texture and gentle sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm pineapple juice (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/2 cup warm whole milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm pineapple juice, warm milk, yeast, sugar, and honey. Stir gently and let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups flour and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture to the flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes, adding flour as needed until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 to 1 ½ hours.
6. Punch down dough and divide into 12–15 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball.
7. Arrange balls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or round pan, spacing evenly.
8. Cover with a cloth and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown on top.
11. Brush warm rolls with melted butter for extra shine and softness.
12. Let cool slightly, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use bread flour for a chewier texture.
• Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for a crunchy crust.
• Use canned pineapple juice if fresh is unavailable.
• For sliders, make smaller rolls by dividing into 18–24 pieces.

Storage & Reheating

• Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reheat rolls in a warm oven or microwave before serving.
• Freeze rolls wrapped tightly for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roast dinners or BBQ for a sweet complement.
• Use for chicken sliders.
• Pair with soups or salads for a light meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What gives Hawaiian rolls their unique sweet flavor compared to regular dinner rolls?

Their sweetness comes from the addition of pineapple juice and honey, which create a gentle tropical flavor unique to these rolls.

Can the dough be made vegan-friendly without losing its soft texture?

Yes, by swapping dairy milk for plant-based milk, using vegan butter, and replacing eggs with flax or chia eggs, the rolls stay tender and fluffy.

What are the best tips for achieving perfect fluffiness in homemade Hawaiian rolls?

Activating yeast properly, kneading well, allowing the dough to rise fully, and handling it gently help create a soft, airy texture.

How should leftover Hawaiian rolls be stored to maintain freshness and softness?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or freeze tightly wrapped; reheat gently before serving.

Ready to Make It?

Make these soft, sweet Hawaiian Rolls for your next gathering or family meal and enjoy the tropical twist they bring to your table. Pin this recipe and share the aloha spirit with every bite!

You Might Also Like

• Classic Sage and Onion Stuffing – Traditional herby stuffing perfect for holiday dinners
• Homemade Southern Cornbread Dressing – Moist and flavorful cornbread dressing made easy
• Easy Sweet Potato Casserole – Creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with crunchy pecans and marshmallows
• Best Cranberry Sauce Recipe – Classic homemade cranberry sauce bursting with fresh citrus notes

Print