If you’ve never tasted soft, fluffy, lightly sweet buns with a subtle island twist, you’re in for a treat! These Homemade Hawaiian Rolls combine everything we love about a bakery classic—pillowy texture, a golden top, and that gentle hint of pineapple. Whether you serve them as snacking rolls, holiday dinner companions, or little slider buns, they’ll transform any meal into a warm, irresistible occasion. Once you bake a batch yourself, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for store-bought!

Homemade Hawaiian Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Homemade Hawaiian Rolls comes from a few simple but very deliberate ingredients. Each plays a key role in creating that iconic texture, subtle sweetness, and rich color. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

Pineapple juice: Adds signature sweetness and tropical aroma; use room temperature for even mixing.
Milk: Gives the rolls their tender crumb and helps with browning; room temp blends smoothly into the dough.
Warm water: Activates the yeast; aim for about 110°F (43°C) so the yeast wakes up happy.
Active dry yeast: Provides the rise and fluffiness—make sure it’s fresh for the best lift.
Brown sugar: Infuses rich, caramel-like sweetness and helps with golden color.
Melted unsalted butter: Adds moistness and luxurious flavor; also used for brushing the tops.
Vanilla extract: Enhances aroma and rounds out the sweet flavor profile.
Egg: Gives structure, rich color, and helps bind everything together.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough; measure carefully for the best texture.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the deep flavors in the dough.
Additional melted butter: For brushing on the warm rolls, sealing in softness and adding gloss.

How to Make Homemade Hawaiian Rolls

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

Start by adding your warm water and active dry yeast to a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You should see the mixture get foamy on top—this is your yeast telling you it’s alive and ready to do its rising magic. If nothing happens, it might be time to grab a new packet of yeast for that signature homemade Hawaiian rolls fluff.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Stir in the pineapple juice and milk—both at room temperature to keep the yeast cozy—then add the brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg. Whisk everything until fully combined. This fruity, buttery blend sets the stage for rolls that are pure comfort with a tropical twist.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Knead

Slowly begin to add your flour and salt, mixing as you go. Once a sticky dough forms, knead it by hand or with a dough hook attachment for 6 to 8 minutes. You’re aiming for a soft, slightly tacky dough that pulls away from the sides but still feels supple in your hands. This step is the secret to homemade Hawaiian rolls that pull apart like clouds.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about an hour. When it has doubled in size, you’ll know it’s ready. Watching this transformation is always so satisfying—it means pillowy rolls aren’t far away!

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough to release excess air, then divide into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball and nestle them together in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Arranging them close ensures they bake up soft and pull-apart style, just like your favorite homemade Hawaiian rolls from the bakery.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the pan again and let the dough balls rise for 30 to 40 minutes, until they look noticeably puffier. This second rise is key for creating rolls with an extra-light bite that’s never dense.

Step 7: Baking and Brushing

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are gloriously golden. As soon as they come out, brush them with more melted butter for ultimate softness and a picture-perfect sheen. Let them cool slightly before you dig in—if you can wait that long!

How to Serve Homemade Hawaiian Rolls

Garnishes

Sprinkle the warm tops with a dusting of flaky sea salt, a touch of sesame seeds, or even a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs if you’re feeling fancy. A little honey butter or sweetened whipped butter alongside takes these rolls totally over the top.

Side Dishes

Pair your homemade Hawaiian rolls with barbecue pulled pork, roasted chicken, or grilled fish—they soak up sauces like a dream. On holiday tables, they’re perfection with turkey and gravy or a slab of creamy butter. They’re equally fantastic served warm alongside a bowl of hearty soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your homemade Hawaiian rolls into mini sliders by stuffing them with ham and cheese, or sliced roast beef and pickles. For brunch, build breakfast sandwiches with scrambled eggs and bacon. Or, split and toast them lightly for adorable tea sandwiches that everyone loves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay moist and soft, ready for snacking or sandwich building.

Freezing

Homemade Hawaiian rolls freeze beautifully! Once completely cool, wrap them well in plastic then foil and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven for that just-baked magic.

Reheating

To restore their soft, pillowy texture, reheat rolls in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered loosely with foil, for 8 to 10 minutes. A quick microwave zap, wrapped in a damp paper towel, works for single rolls, too. Then finish with a fresh swipe of melted butter for irresistible shine and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the same amount of instant yeast, reducing proofing time slightly since instant yeast works a little faster. You can skip the initial activation step and add it right in with the dry ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough through the first rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature, shape, and proceed with the second rise and baking. This makes Homemade Hawaiian Rolls super convenient for entertaining.

Why do my rolls come out dense instead of fluffy?

Dough that’s too dry or under-kneaded often leads to dense rolls. Make sure your measurements are accurate and add just enough flour to keep the dough soft and a little tacky. Kneading fully is also key to developing that light texture we love in homemade Hawaiian rolls!

Can I use canned pineapple juice?

Yes, canned pineapple juice works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure it’s unsweetened or adjust the sugar slightly if your juice is very sweet, so the rolls aren’t overpoweringly sugary.

How can I make these rolls dairy-free?

To make dairy-free homemade Hawaiian rolls, replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative such as soy or almond milk and use plant-based butter. The results are still soft, fluffy, and utterly irresistible!

Final Thoughts

You honestly don’t need a special occasion to enjoy a batch of Homemade Hawaiian Rolls. If you love to bake or simply want to surprise your family with something extra warm and comforting, these rolls are a dream come true. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and let the sweet aroma of homemade bread fill your kitchen!

Homemade Hawaiian Rolls Recipe