Homemade King’s Hawaiian Rolls or Loaf Recipe

King’s Hawaiian Rolls are a beloved classic, known for their pillowy softness, slightly sweet flavor, and rich buttery aroma. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven, as a side to your favorite dish, or as the base for a delicious slider, these rolls are always a hit.

This homemade version captures the same irresistible taste and texture but with the added satisfaction of baking from scratch. With simple ingredients like pineapple juice, eggs, and butter, you can create rolls or loaves that rival the store-bought ones. Let’s break down the recipe step by step, along with tips and FAQs to ensure your baking success.

Ingredients for Homemade King’s Hawaiian Rolls or Loaf

Dry Ingredients

6 cups all-purpose flour, divided (3 cups initially, 3 cups later)

1/2 cup additional flour (for kneading)

Wet Ingredients

3 large eggs (beaten)
2 cups pineapple juice (room temperature)

3/4 cup sugar or Splenda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup butter (melted, 8 tablespoons)

Leavening

2 packets yeast (0.25 oz each)

How to Make Homemade King’s Hawaiian Rolls or Loaf

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

Beat the eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
Mix the wet ingredients: Add pineapple juice, sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the eggs. Stir well to combine.

Step 2: Combine the Initial Dough

Start with dry ingredients: Place 3 cups of flour into a large mixing bowl.
Add wet mixture: Gradually stir the egg mixture into the flour until well combined.

Step 3: Activate the Yeast

Sprinkle in yeast: Add both yeast packets to the dough, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Build the Dough

Incorporate remaining flour: Gradually mix in the remaining 3 cups of flour. If the dough becomes too stiff to stir, switch to kneading by hand.

Step 5: Adjust Dough Consistency

Check texture: The dough should feel tacky but not overly sticky. If it seems too wet, sprinkle in a tablespoon of extra flour at a time until the desired texture is achieved.

Step 6: First Rise

Let it rest: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm, draft-free area. Allow the dough to rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 7: Knead and Shape

Knead with extra flour: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead in an additional 1/2 cup of flour. Knead for 10–15 turns until smooth and elastic.
Shape into rolls or loaves: Divide the dough into equal portions for rolls or shape it into a loaf. Place the dough in buttered baking pans.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover and rise again: Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place. Rolls should rise for 1 hour, while loaves require about 90 minutes or until doubled in size.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls or loaves for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 10: Add the Finishing Touch

Brush with butter: Once out of the oven, brush the tops of the rolls or loaves with melted butter for extra richness and shine. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Rolls

Warm Ingredients: Ensure the pineapple juice is at room temperature before mixing to activate the yeast properly. Cold liquid may slow down the rising process.
Soft Texture: Avoid over-flouring the dough during kneading to keep the rolls soft and tender. The dough should be slightly tacky but manageable.
Rising Environment: Create a warm rising space by placing the dough in a turned-off oven with the light on or near a bowl of hot water.
Even Rolls: Use a kitchen scale to divide the dough into evenly sized portions for consistent baking.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dough the day before and refrigerate it after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Variations

1. Honey Hawaiian Rolls

Replace 1/4 cup of the sugar with honey for a subtle floral sweetness.

2. Savory Twist

Add a sprinkle of garlic powder, parsley, or shredded cheese to the dough for a savory version of these rolls.

3. Sweet Cinnamon Loaf

Roll the dough out, spread with melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and roll it up before shaping into a loaf for a sweet cinnamon bread.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! If using instant yeast, skip the step of sprinkling it into the dough. Instead, mix it directly with the dry ingredients before adding the wet mixture.

2. Can I make these rolls dairy-free?

To make dairy-free Hawaiian rolls, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free vanilla extract.

3. How do I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes.

4. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, the dough can be frozen after the first rise. Shape it into rolls or loaves, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then let it rise before baking.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture and flavor, making the rolls denser.

Homemade King’s Hawaiian Rolls are a versatile treat that brings warmth and joy to any meal. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or save them for sliders and sandwiches, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious reward!