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Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls Recipe

4.5 from 118 reviews

Sweet Hawaiian Bread Rolls are soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened dinner rolls infused with pineapple juice and vanilla extract for a unique tropical flavor. This recipe yields 15 golden, buttery rolls perfect for serving alongside dinner or enjoying as a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 3 tsps instant yeast
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¾ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 6 tbsps unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2 whole eggs (room temperature)
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • ½ cup whole milk (lukewarm)
  • 2 tsps vanilla extract

Topping

  • 1 whole egg
  • 2 tsps milk
  • 2 tbsps unsalted butter (melted)

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt until just combined to evenly distribute the dry components.
  2. Add Wet Ingredients and Knead Dough: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the eggs, pineapple juice, lukewarm milk, and vanilla extract. Using the dough hook attachment, knead on low speed for 5 minutes. Gradually add the softened butter and knead for an additional 2 minutes until the dough is smooth and comes together.
  3. First Proofing: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover with cling wrap. Let it proof at room temperature for 1½ to 2 hours, or until doubled in size, depending on room temperature.
  4. Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Divide the dough evenly into 15 balls. Arrange the dough balls in a greased or lined 9 x 13 inch baking dish in 5 rows of 3. Cover and let rest for another hour until the dough balls double in size again.
  5. Prepare Egg Wash and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the whole egg and milk to create the egg wash, then brush it over the risen dough balls. Bake the rolls on the middle rack for 22 to 25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
  6. Brush with Butter and Cool: Once out of the oven, immediately brush the warm rolls with melted butter to add shine and flavor. Allow the rolls to cool for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Make sure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Room temperature eggs help ingredients combine better for a smooth dough.
  • Proofing times can vary depending on ambient room temperature; look for dough doubling in size as a good indicator.
  • Using fresh yeast ensures the best rise and texture.
  • Brushing the rolls with melted butter right after baking keeps them soft and adds a beautiful glossy finish.

Keywords: Hawaiian rolls, sweet bread rolls, pineapple bread, soft dinner rolls, homemade bread