Copycat Cinnabon Delights Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Original recipe yields: 12 servings

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners sugar
• 8 tablespoons softened butter, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 12 Hawaiian slider rolls
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Start by combining the softened cream cheese, confectioners sugar, 2 tablespoons of butter, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt in a medium bowl. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.

Once the mixture is ready, transfer it to a resealable plastic bag or a piping bag for easy filling of the rolls.

Take a paring knife and carefully cut a 1/2-inch slit along one side of each roll. Gently create a well in the center of each roll by using a small spoon handle or your finger. Be sure not to cut all the way through the roll.

Snip the corner of the plastic bag with the cream cheese filling and pipe the mixture into each roll. A small offset spatula or the back of a spoon can help ensure that the filling is spread evenly inside without spilling over the sides.

In a small bowl, melt the remaining butter and lightly brush each roll with it. This will give the rolls a golden and crisp finish once air-fried.

Preheat your air fryer to 400F (200C) according to the manufacturers instructions. While the air fryer heats up, mix the white sugar and cinnamon together in a shallow dish. This will be used to coat the rolls once they're done cooking.

Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, air fry the filled rolls for about 3 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and toasted. Immediately after removing the rolls, coat them evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. If needed, you can brush more melted butter on the rolls to help the sugar adhere better.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 332
• Fat: 16g (20% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 9g (45% DV)
• Cholesterol: 39mg (13% DV)
• Sodium: 373mg (16% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 42g (15% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% DV)
• Total Sugars: 21g
• Protein: 6g (12% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
• Calcium: 108mg (8% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (9% DV)
• Potassium: 92mg (2% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your individual calorie needs.

History of Copycat Cinnabon Delights Hawaiian Rolls

The concept of sweet, filled rolls has been popular for centuries, evolving from traditional European pastries like Danish rolls and brioche. Cinnabon, founded in 1985 in Seattle, Washington, popularized the indulgent cinnamon roll in the United States. The Copycat Cinnabon Delights Hawaiian Rolls recipe merges this classic American sweet with the soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian roll, creating a modern twist that is easy to prepare at home. Hawaiian rolls themselves were introduced in the 1950s by the Kings Hawaiian brand in Hawaii, gaining fame for their light texture and tropical flavor.

Regional Characteristics

This recipe reflects a unique blend of American and Hawaiian influences. Hawaiian rolls are known for their distinct sweetness and fluffy texture, which contrasts with traditional cinnamon rolls that are denser. The use of cream cheese filling adds a rich, smooth layer that balances the sugar and cinnamon. While cinnamon rolls are a staple in many regions of the U.S., using Hawaiian rolls gives a softer, more pillowy texture and a subtle hint of tropical flavor, characteristic of Hawaiis baking traditions.

Difference from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional Cinnabon rolls that are made with a yeast dough rolled around a cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with icing, this variation uses pre-packaged Hawaiian rolls, significantly reducing preparation time. The cream cheese filling distinguishes it further from classic cinnamon rolls, which typically use only butter, sugar, and cinnamon for the interior. The method of air frying instead of baking also sets it apart, giving the rolls a quick golden crust while keeping the inside soft and gooey.

Where They Are Typically Served

These delights are versatile and often served as breakfast treats, brunch items, or party finger foods. They are especially popular at casual gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations due to their bite-sized convenience. Restaurants that specialize in pastries or breakfast buffets may offer similar stuffed rolls, but the homemade version is a favorite for family-style meals and festive occasions where a sweet, shareable treat is desired.

Interesting Facts

• The original Hawaiian rolls used in this recipe were inspired by Portuguese sweet bread, brought to Hawaii by immigrants in the late 19th century.
• The combination of cream cheese with cinnamon sugar reflects the evolution of American dessert trends toward richer, layered flavors.
• Air frying these rolls reduces cooking time by about half compared to conventional oven baking, while still achieving a golden-brown finish.
• The small, slider-sized rolls make it easy to control portions and allow for creative fillings beyond the classic cinnamon-sugar combination.
• This recipe has gained popularity online as a copycat version of a beloved bakery treat, showcasing the growing trend of recreating restaurant favorites at home.

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