Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened with pineapple juice and vanilla, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or any time of day. Their delicate texture and sweet aroma are sure to delight your family and guests.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 3 tsps instant yeast
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsps unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 whole eggs (room temperature)
• ½ cup pineapple juice
• ½ cup whole milk (lukewarm)
• ¾ tsp salt
• 2 tsps vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 whole egg
• 2 tsps milk
• 2 tbsps unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix with a whisk attachment until just combined.
2. Step 2: Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the eggs, pineapple juice, lukewarm milk, and vanilla extract. Using the dough hook attachment, knead on low speed for 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Gradually add the softened butter while continuing to mix, and knead for an additional 2 minutes until the dough comes together.
4. Step 4: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover with cling wrap and let it proof for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. Step 5: Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough into 15 equal-sized balls and place them in a 9 x 13-inch non-stick or lined baking dish in 5 rows of 3. Cover and let rest for another hour until the dough balls double in size.
6. Step 6: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the whole egg with 2 teaspoons of milk to make an egg wash. Brush this evenly over the dough balls.
7. Step 7: Bake the rolls on the middle rack for 22–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with the melted butter. Allow the rolls to cool for 5–7 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute some of the whole milk with coconut milk.
• You can add a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top after brushing with melted butter for extra tropical flair.
• If you don’t have pineapple juice, use orange juice as a substitute for a different citrus note.
• Make sure your milk is lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.

Storage

Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat thawed rolls in a warm oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds wrapped in a damp paper towel to retain softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. It will take a bit more effort but works just as well.

What’s the best way to know when the dough has properly proofed?

The dough has doubled in size and should look puffy and airy. You can gently press two fingers into the dough; if the indentation remains, it’s ready for the next step.