There’s nothing like the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread infused with the savory richness of garlic and the creamy goodness of cheese. Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful twist on classic dinner rolls, combining the sweet, buttery flavor of Hawaiian rolls with a creamy, garlicky center that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving them as a side for dinner, a party appetizer, or a snack, these rolls are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive in our Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls.
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 1 package (12 rolls) Hawaiian sweet rolls (King’s Hawaiian or similar)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 2–3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives for sprinkling
- A dash of chili flakes for a hint of heat
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Prep the Rolls
- Carefully slice each Hawaiian roll horizontally, creating a pocket but not cutting all the way through. This will hold the cream cheese filling.
- Stuff the Rolls
- Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each roll pocket with the cream cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed and doesn’t overflow.
- Make the Garlic Butter Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.
- Brush the Rolls
- Arrange the filled rolls in the prepared baking dish. Generously brush the tops with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they’re well coated.
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese filling is warmed through.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm.
Tips
- Softened Cream Cheese:
Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing for a smooth, lump-free filling. - Customize the Cheese:
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist. - Extra Garlic Flavor:
If you’re a garlic lover, roast a whole bulb of garlic and mash it into the butter for a sweeter, more intense flavor. - Make Ahead:
Assemble the rolls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake fresh when ready to serve.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration:
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. - Freezing:
Once baked and cooled, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes.
Variations
- Herb & Cheese Blend:
Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the cheese filling for a herbal infusion. - Spicy Version:
Mix a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce into the cheese filling for a spicy kick. - Bacon Lovers:
Add crumbled cooked bacon to the cream cheese mixture for a smoky, savory element. - Dessert Twist:
Replace the garlic with cinnamon and sugar, and substitute the cheese filling with sweetened cream cheese for a dessert version.
Nutrition Details
Per Roll (1 of 12):
- Calories: 180–200
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on the brands and amounts used.
FAQ
1. Can I use homemade rolls instead of store-bought Hawaiian rolls?
Yes, homemade sweet rolls work wonderfully! Just ensure they’re similar in size and texture to Hawaiian rolls for the best results.
2. What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
You can substitute it with any melty cheese like provolone, Monterey Jack, or a sharp cheddar.
3. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and dairy-free shredded cheese. Swap the butter with vegan butter or olive oil.
4. How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?
Make sure to cover the rolls with foil if they start browning too quickly during baking.
5. Can I add meat to the filling?
Absolutely! Crumbled sausage, diced ham, or even shredded chicken would pair beautifully with the cheese and garlic flavors.