Cream Cheese Rolls

Imagine a cozy weekend morning, the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home. This is the magic that our Cream Cheese Rolls bring to life—a delightful treat inspired by the warmth of my grandmother’s kitchen. During my childhood, weekends at grandma’s were always special. Her kitchen was a haven filled with the comforting scent of baked bread and sweet cinnamon. These Cream Cheese Rolls are a tribute to those cherished mornings, combining the softness of King’s Hawaiian sweet rolls with a luscious cream cheese filling, all hugged by a buttery cinnamon glaze. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is crafted to be both simple and rewarding, ensuring that every home cook can recreate this delightful experience.

Why This Recipe Works

• Effortless Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for those who want a quick yet delectable treat.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet rolls with cinnamon and cream cheese offers a balanced flavor profile that is both sweet and tangy.
• Minimal Ingredients: Using just a few readily available ingredients, you can create a dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, these rolls are suitable for any time of day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With six servings, these rolls are perfect for sharing, making them a hit at gatherings or family breakfasts.

Ingredients

• King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls: These rolls provide a soft, sweet base that pairs perfectly with the cream cheese filling.
• Salted Butter: Melted to mix with cinnamon and sugar, adding a rich, buttery flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and molasses-like sweetness to the butter mixture.
• Ground Cinnamon: Infuses the rolls with a classic, warm spice that’s irresistible.
• Cream Cheese: Softened for easy mixing, its tanginess balances the sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling, creating a delightful contrast.
• Egg: Helps to create a smooth, creamy texture in the filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and grease a 9×13 baking dish. This ensures the rolls bake evenly and don’t stick to the dish.
2. Place the King’s Hawaiian rolls in the dish and carefully cut a small square in the top of each roll, gently pulling out some of the bread without cutting the bottom. This step creates a perfect cavity for the cream cheese filling.
3. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This mixture will serve as a flavorful glaze for the rolls.
4. Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops and insides of each roll. Ensure each roll is well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer. Smooth cream cheese ensures a creamy filling.
6. Add the granulated sugar and egg to the cream cheese, mixing until creamy. The egg helps to bind the mixture and create a smooth texture.
7. Carefully fill each roll with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring each cavity is generously filled. This is the heart of the recipe, where the magic happens.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until the rolls are golden and the cream cheese filling is set. Watch closely to avoid overbaking.
9. Allow to cool slightly before serving. This cooling time allows the filling to set further, making them easier to handle.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 Servings

Table: Calorie Breakdown for a Typical Serving

Component	Calories	Carbs (g)	Protein (g)	Fat (g)	Sugar (g)
Rolls	250	30	4	10	8

Patricia’s Tips for Success

Tip 1: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to prevent lumps in your filling.
Tip 2: When cutting the cavities in the rolls, be gentle to avoid tearing the bottoms.
Tip 3: Don’t skimp on the butter mixture; it adds a crucial layer of flavor and helps caramelize the tops.
Tip 4: If possible, use a pastry brush for even distribution of the butter mixture across the rolls.
Tip 5: For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light.
Tip 6: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving to let the filling set properly.
Tip 7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Cooking Variations

Variation 1: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture for an extra flavor dimension.
Variation 2: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the rolls before baking for added texture.
Variation 3: For a fruity twist, add a layer of jam or fruit preserves in the cavity before the cream cheese filling.
Variation 4: Swap out King’s Hawaiian rolls for brioche or challah rolls for a different flavor profile.
Variation 5: Dust the finished rolls with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Serving Suggestions

Suggestion 1: Pair these Cream Cheese Rolls with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Suggestion 2: Serve alongside fresh fruit or a fruit salad to balance the richness of the rolls.
Suggestion 3: Accompany with a glass of milk or a mild-flavored smoothie for a refreshing contrast.
Suggestion 4: For dessert, serve warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Suggestion 5: Present the rolls on a decorative platter as part of a brunch buffet for a festive touch.

Additional Thoughts

Creating Cream Cheese Rolls is more than just following a recipe; it’s about savoring the process and the joy it brings. My grandmother always emphasized the importance of cooking with love and intention, and this philosophy is woven into every step of making these rolls. The act of mixing the cream cheese, the fragrance of cinnamon filling the air, and the anticipation as they bake are all part of the experience that makes this recipe special.

When I first attempted this recipe, I was reminded of the patience and care my grandmother employed in her cooking. Each detail, from ensuring the cream cheese was perfectly smooth to brushing the rolls with the cinnamon glaze, echoes her meticulous nature. She had a way of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, a skill I strive to emulate in my own kitchen.

Baking these rolls can also be a therapeutic activity. There’s something soothing about the rhythmic task of mixing and assembling, a gentle reminder to slow down and appreciate the small joys. As the rolls bake, their aroma transports you to a place of warmth and comfort, invoking memories or creating new ones.

For me, food is a bridge that connects the past with the present. These Cream Cheese Rolls not only honor my grandmother’s legacy but also offer a way to create new traditions. Imagine sitting around the table with loved ones, sharing these rolls and stories, laughter mingling with the scent of cinnamon in the air. It’s a moment to cherish, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together.

In today’s fast-paced world, taking the time to create something from scratch is a gift, both to yourself and to those you share it with. These Cream Cheese Rolls are an embodiment of that gift, simple yet profound, a testament to the love and care we can infuse into our everyday lives.

Join the Conversation

I would love to hear about your own experiences with these Cream Cheese Rolls. Did they inspire memories of your own family traditions, or perhaps spark new ones? Share your stories or variations in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking and the connections it fosters. If you have any questions or need further tips, I’m here to help. Your feedback and creativity are what make this community vibrant and inspiring.

Conclusion

These Cream Cheese Rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a journey through flavors and memories. With their ease of preparation and delightful taste, they are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them on a quiet morning or sharing them with friends and family, they offer a moment of warmth and sweetness that is truly special. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on this delicious adventure. Remember, the best recipes are those shared with love and joy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
A: Yes, you can use unsalted butter; just add a pinch of salt to the butter mixture for balance.

Q: How should I store leftover rolls?
A: Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

Q: Can I freeze the rolls?
A: Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I use a different type of sugar for the filling?
A: You can substitute granulated sugar with powdered sugar for a smoother filling.

Q: How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
A: The rolls should be golden brown, and the filling should be set but still slightly jiggly.

Q: Can these rolls be prepared ahead of time?
A: You can prepare them up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

Q: What if I don’t have a hand mixer?
A: You can use a stand mixer or mix by hand with a sturdy whisk, ensuring the cream cheese is well softened.