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tasty hawaiian rolls recipe

Homemade Hawaiian Rolls

These pillowy, golden Hawaiian rolls feature a subtle sweetness from pineapple juice that infuses every bite with tropical flavor. With their soft texture and delicate taste, these versatile rolls are perfect alongside dinner, ideal for sliders, or simply enjoyed warm with butter.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 175
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice 100% juice, no added sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 4 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 1/2 cups bread flour
  • 1/4 cup milk room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons butter

Equipment

  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Microwave-safe container

Method
 

  1. Place milk in a mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let sit for 4-5 minutes until the yeast dissolves.
  2. In a microwave-safe container, combine pineapple juice and butter. Heat for about 1 minute until butter melts completely. Ensure the mixture isn't hotter than 125°F (comfortable bathwater temperature).
  3. Add the beaten egg to the mixing bowl with the milk and yeast. Pour in the warm pineapple juice-butter mixture, along with sugar and salt.
  4. Incorporate the bread flour one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the dough feels sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a slightly tacky consistency.
  5. If using a stand mixer, let the dough hook work for about 10 minutes to develop the gluten structure. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  7. Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place in a greased baking dish.
  8. Cover and let rise again until doubled, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Brush with melted butter if desired.

Notes

Bread flour is essential for achieving the right structure in these rolls, so try to avoid substituting with all-purpose flour if possible. For dairy-free versions, coconut milk works beautifully in place of regular milk, and the tropical undertones complement the rolls nicely.
These rolls are versatile - perfect for sliders, alongside soups and stews, or even as mini breakfast sandwiches. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
If you're in a humid climate, you might need to adjust your flour slightly, adding a tablespoon at a time until the dough reaches that perfect consistency.