Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

There’s something undeniably enchanting about Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. These little clouds of sweetness are the perfect side for any meal, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in. Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, Hawaiian Sweet Rolls can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make at home, and once you do, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls deserve a spot in your recipe repertoire for several reasons. Firstly, their sweet, buttery flavor complements a range of dishes, making them an excellent addition to any table. Secondly, they are incredibly versatile; you can enjoy them plain, slather them with butter, or use them to create delicious sliders or sandwiches. Finally, there’s something heartwarming about baking bread at home. The smell that fills your kitchen is a gentle reminder of gatherings and celebrations, making these rolls a must-try.

What You’ll Gather

To make your own Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup pineapple juice at room temperature
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/3 cup honey (mild honey like clover)
• 5-6 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon instant or rapid-rise yeast
• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons softened butter, separated

Equipment & Tools

Before you start baking, ensure you have the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Whisk: To mix liquids and dry ingredients evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.
• Loaf pan or baking sheet: To shape and bake the rolls.
• Kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
• Stand mixer or wooden spoon: For kneading the dough if you prefer not to do it by hand.

Build Hawaiian Sweet Rolls Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, whole milk, melted butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 5 cups of all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and brown sugar. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in your liquid mixture.

Step 3: Mix and Knead

Using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix until the dough starts to come together. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a soft, slightly tacky dough. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Step 4: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball. Place the balls in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are close but not touching.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the shaped rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for about 30-45 minutes until they puff up.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 8: Bake

Once the rolls have risen, brush the tops with 1 tablespoon of softened butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining softened butter. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Fit It to Your Goals

If you want to customize your Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, consider these adjustments:

• For a richer flavor, substitute whole milk with buttermilk.
• To make it dairy-free, use almond milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
• Incorporate crushed pineapple into the dough for an extra tropical twist.

What I Learned Testing

During the testing of this recipe, I learned several key tips that can make your baking experience even better:

• Using room temperature liquids helps the yeast activate properly, leading to a better rise.
• Be cautious with the flour; start with less and add more as needed to avoid a dense roll.
• Don’t rush the rising process; allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for fluffy rolls.
• Experimenting with different types of honey can change the flavor profile—choose one that you enjoy!

Storing Tips & Timelines

To keep your Hawaiian Sweet Rolls fresh:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, you can freeze the rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven.

Ask & Learn

Can I make Hawaiian Sweet Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls, then place them in the fridge overnight for a slower rise. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that your liquids were at the right temperature (not too hot or too cold).

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. A mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour might yield a better result.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. A thermometer inserted in the center should read about 190°F (88°C).

Next Up in Your Queue

If you loved making Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, consider trying these delicious recipes:

• Buttery Dinner Rolls
• Cinnamon Rolls

Final Thoughts

Baking Hawaiian Sweet Rolls at home is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and joy. These rolls are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors that can transform any meal into something special. Whether you are enjoying them with a hearty dinner or as a sweet breakfast option, these rolls are sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a batch of rolls that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the soft, sweet goodness of homemade Hawaiian Sweet Rolls.

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