If you are craving a treat that is bursting with sweet warmth and a tropical twist, the Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Custard and Caramelized Sear Technique Recipe is exactly what you need. This indulgent dish takes the beloved King’s Hawaiian Rolls to a whole new level by layering them with creamy cinnamon custard, a luscious cream cheese filling, and finishing them with a beautifully caramelized sear that creates crisp, golden edges. Each bite offers the soft, fluffy sweetness of the rolls combined with the rich, spicy flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, making it an irresistible delight that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in bringing the Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Custard and Caramelized Sear Technique Recipe to life. From the soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls forming the perfect base to the flavorful cinnamon and custard that bake into layers of deliciousness, every element works in harmony to create this unforgettable dish.
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: The signature sweet and fluffy rolls provide the perfect texture and flavor foundation.
- Half and Half (â…” cup): Adds richness to the custard, creating a creamy coating for the rolls.
- Eggs (2, beaten): Essential for the custard, helping it set and add protein to balance sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the custard with its fragrant aroma.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon plus 3 tablespoons): Infuses the rolls and custard with that classic cinnamon spice that’s irresistible.
- Butter (2 tablespoons cubed + 4 tablespoons melted): Cubed butter for caramelizing, melted butter mixed into the cinnamon swirl for moisture and richness.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a velvety, tangy filling between the rolls for extra decadence.
- Brown Sugar (â…“ cup): Blended with cinnamon and butter, it forms a sweet, sticky swirl inside the roll.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Used for coating the rolls after searing, adds a crunchy, sweet exterior.
How to Make Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Custard and Caramelized Sear Technique Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
Begin by mixing the melted butter, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar in a bowl until they meld together into a thick, fragrant paste. This sweet paste will become the flavorful heart you spread inside each roll, contributing a gooey, cinnamon-spiked surprise in every bite. Once mixed, set this aside to let the flavors marry while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a larger bowl, combine the granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon. This mixture will be your finishing touch, coating the rolls after they are seared to give them that signature sweet crunch and an extra hit of cinnamon spice. Setting this aside now will make the searing step seamless later on.
Step 3: Prepare and Fill the Rolls
Carefully slice each King’s Hawaiian Roll in half horizontally. Using a spatula or knife, spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese on both the top and bottom halves. Then, drizzle the cinnamon swirl paste evenly over the cream cheese layers. When filled, sandwich the rolls back together. Pop them into the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Chilling helps the filling firm up slightly, making the next dipping and searing steps easier and more effective.
Step 4: Whisk the Custard
While the rolls chill, whisk together the half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and the teaspoon of cinnamon in a large bowl. This mixture is the custard that will coat each roll, infusing it with moistness and a smooth, spiced richness akin to French toast but elevated with Hawaiian sweetness.
Step 5: Dip the Rolls in Custard
One at a time, dip each chilled cinnamon roll sandwich into the custard, allowing it to soak for 15 to 30 seconds. Make sure each roll is fully coated but not overly saturated to prevent falling apart during searing. This step ensures every bite will be moist and deliciously custardy inside and out.
Step 6: Sear the Rolls to Perfection
Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat for about one minute and add a cube of butter to melt. Place each custard-dipped roll into the pan and cook them like French toast, turning carefully so that at least three sides develop a golden brown, caramelized crust. This process typically takes 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Remember to wipe out the pan with a paper towel between batches to avoid any burnt sugar residue sabotaging your rolls’ flawless finish.
Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar and Serve
As each batch finishes searing, immediately toss the rolls in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This final step provides that addictive sweet crunch on the outside, contrasting beautifully with the soft custard-soaked bread inside. Transfer them to your serving plate and enjoy warm for best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Custard and Caramelized Sear Technique Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add bursts of freshness, consider garnishing these rolls with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. Fresh tropical fruit, such as sliced pineapple or mango, can add a refreshing contrast, while a sprinkle of finely chopped macadamia nuts provides an enjoyable crunch and an extra touch of Hawaiian flair.
Side Dishes
For a complete breakfast or brunch spread, pair these Hawaiian cinnamon rolls with a light, crisp salad of mixed greens and citrus segments or a simple fruit salad. A cup of strong coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice complements the sweetness and helps balance the richness of the custard and cream cheese layers.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve the rolls in a decorative wooden platter or a woven basket lined with a colorful napkin for a casual island vibe. For special occasions, arrange them in a circle on a large plate garnished with edible flowers or tropical leaves to add color and charm. You could even turn them into mini sliders for a delightful bite-sized treat at brunch gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Custard and Caramelized Sear Technique Recipe leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature if eaten within a day. For best freshness beyond that, refrigerate them to keep the custard from spoiling and prevent the cream cheese from becoming too soft.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or container. This technique locks in moisture and flavor so you can enjoy them later without losing the custard’s creaminess or the buttery sweetness of the rolls.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen or refrigerated rolls, reheat them gently in a toaster oven or at low heat in a skillet until warmed through and crispy on the outside. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to soften the exterior and makes the cinnamon sugar coating less delightful.
FAQs
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of King’s Hawaiian Rolls?
While you can substitute other sweet rolls, King’s Hawaiian Rolls are essential for the signature soft texture and subtle sweetness that makes this recipe stand out. Other rolls may result in a denser or less flavorful final dish.
How long can I store the rolls before serving?
Best enjoyed fresh, the rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate and reheat gently before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Since this recipe relies heavily on eggs, half and half, butter, and cream cheese, making it fully vegan requires substitutions. Vegan butter, plant-based milk, and tofu-based custard alternatives could work, but the results will differ significantly from the original.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can assemble the rolls, chill them, and even dip them in custard a few hours before searing. Just keep them refrigerated and sear them right before serving for the freshest taste.
What makes the caramelized sear technique special for these rolls?
This technique creates a crunchy, golden-brown exterior packed with caramelized sugar flavor, contrasting beautifully with the soft, custard-soaked interior. It elevates simple cinnamon rolls into a gourmet experience.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Custard and Caramelized Sear Technique Recipe is like a little island vacation for your palate, blending comforting cinnamon flavors with the unique charm of Hawaiian sweet rolls and an irresistible caramelized crust. Whether you’re serving it up for a weekend treat or brunch with friends, this recipe promises smiles, satisfied cravings, and requests for seconds. So go ahead, dive into this warm, cozy, and delightfully indulgent dish—you won’t regret it!
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Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls with Custard and Caramelized Sear Technique Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hawaiian Cinnamon Rolls transform soft and sweet King’s Hawaiian Rolls into a decadent cinnamon-swirl breakfast treat. Filled with a creamy cinnamon swirl and cream cheese, dipped in a rich vanilla-cinnamon custard, and pan-seared like French toast until golden and coated in cinnamon sugar, these rolls are warm, gooey, and full of flavor. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch gathering.
Ingredients
Rolls and Filling
- 1 package King’s Hawaiian Rolls
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
Cinnamon Swirl
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- â…“ cup brown sugar
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Custard Mixture
- â…” cup half and half
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar. Stir well until the mixture forms a smooth paste. Set this aside for later use.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a large bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Set this cinnamon sugar mixture aside to coat the rolls after cooking.
- Fill the Rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Spread softened cream cheese evenly on both the top and bottom halves of each roll. Then drizzle the prepared cinnamon swirl paste over the cream cheese.
- Assemble and Chill: Sandwich the top and bottom halves of each roll back together and place them on a tray. Chill these assembled rolls in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to set the filling.
- Prepare Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together half and half, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully blended and smooth.
- Dip Rolls in Custard: Remove the chilled rolls from the fridge and dip each roll into the custard mixture for 15-30 seconds, ensuring they are soaked and well coated on all sides.
- Sear the Rolls: Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat for about 1 minute. Add one cube of butter to the pan. In batches, place the custard-dipped rolls in the pan and cook them like French toast, searing until they become golden brown on at least three sides. This should take roughly 4-5 minutes per batch.
- Clean Pan Between Batches: To avoid burning the sugar, wipe out the pan with a paper towel between batches before adding butter and cooking the next set of rolls.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Once seared, transfer the rolls into the bowl with the cinnamon sugar and toss or roll gently to fully coat all sides with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve: Place the coated cinnamon rolls on a serving plate and enjoy them warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure to chill the assembled rolls before dipping to help them hold together better when dipped in custard.
- Use a non-stick sauté pan for best results and easier cleanup.
- Adjust cinnamon sugar coating to taste if you prefer sweeter or spicier rolls.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the best warm texture and flavor.
- These rolls are best eaten the same day but can be gently reheated in a skillet or microwave.
