Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a holiday spread that leaves everyone asking for the recipe, Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are here to impress. This guide will walk you through every step, from ingredients to storage tips, so you can master these crowd-pleasers even if you’ve never baked a thing in your life. We’ll also explore variations, nutritional details, and answer popular questions from curious cooks online.
Chef’s Note:
“I first tasted these at a potluck party and couldn’t stop thinking about them. The mix of sweet Hawaiian bread with a creamy garlic center is genius. It’s like your favorite garlic bread and cheesecake had a baby,and that baby is delicious.” – Chef Amira L., Culinary Blogger and Mom of 3
Let’s cooking our Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls now!
Introduction to Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls
What Are Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls?
Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are fluffy, slightly sweet buns filled with creamy, garlicky cheese and brushed with a rich garlic butter glaze. They blend the best of savory and sweet in every bite. Inspired by Korean cream cheese garlic buns, this version uses King’s Hawaiian rolls for convenience and a soft, pillowy texture that makes them irresistible.
These rolls aren’t just a trend,they’ve taken over kitchens everywhere. From potlucks to picnics, they’re making people say, “Wait, what are these? And why do I need more right now?”

The Popularity and Appeal of These Rolls
So, what makes these buns so beloved? Well, let’s break it down.
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Flavor Combo: The sweetness of the rolls meets the savory richness of garlic and cheese.
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Texture Explosion: Soft bread, creamy filling, crispy garlic top,it’s a triple threat.
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Easy to Make: Most ingredients are probably already in your kitchen.
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Perfect for Sharing: These are built for parties, game nights, brunch tables, and even holiday feasts.
“It’s one of those recipes where guests think you worked hard… but you didn’t. And they’ll beg for the recipe.” – Chef Amira
Nutrition Facts Table (Per 1 Roll)
Nutrient | Amount |
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Calories | 210 kcal |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 20g |
Sugar | 5g |
Protein | 5g |
Sodium | 290mg |
Fiber | 1g |
Part 2: Ingredients and Preparation
Essential Ingredients for the Rolls
To craft these delectable Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls, you’ll need the following:
Rolls:
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12-count Hawaiian sweet rolls
Garlic Cream Cheese Filling:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tbsp green onions, finely chopped
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1 tbsp parsley, chopped
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1 tsp minced garlic
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp sugar
Garlic Butter Topping:
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 tbsp parsley, chopped
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1 tsp minced garlic
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½ tsp salt
Garnish:
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Tip: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, green onions, parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and sugar. Mix until smooth and well-blended.
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Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with parsley, minced garlic, and salt. Set aside.
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Slice the Rolls: Using a sharp knife, make a crosscut on the top of each roll, ensuring not to cut all the way through. This creates pockets for the filling.
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Fill the Rolls: Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a corner cut off. Pipe the filling into each roll’s pocket generously.
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Apply Garlic Butter: Brush the tops of the filled rolls with the prepared garlic butter, ensuring even coverage.
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Bake: Place the rolls on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
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Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Chef’s Note: “These rolls are a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for any occasion.”
Variations and Customizations
Adding a Sweet Twist with Hot Honey
For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness with their savory dishes, incorporating hot honey can elevate the flavor profile of these rolls.
Hot Honey Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls:
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Ingredients:
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1.5 tbsp honey
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2 tsp red pepper flakes
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4 tbsp butter
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Preparation: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the honey and red pepper flakes, stirring until well combined. Drizzle this mixture over the filled rolls before baking.
Note: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
Exploring Different Cheese Options
While the classic recipe uses mozzarella, experimenting with other cheeses can offer new taste experiences.
Cheese Variations:
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Cheddar: Provides a sharp, tangy flavor.
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Gouda: Adds a creamy, slightly sweet taste.
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Provolone: Offers a mild, smoky flavor.
Preparation: Substitute the mozzarella in the filling with your cheese of choice, or create a blend for a more complex flavor profile.
Tip: Ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Occasions for Serving These Rolls
These Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are total crowd-pleasers, so you’ll want to make them often. They’re perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to full-blown holiday feasts.
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Family Gatherings: Whether it’s a birthday, a reunion, or just a Sunday meal, these rolls are a hit across all ages.
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Potlucks and Parties: Easy to transport and always gone first.
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Game Day Snacks: Serve them warm during halftime and watch them disappear faster than your team scores.
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Holiday Tables: Add a savory twist to your Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter spreads.
“I brought a batch to a Thanksgiving potluck last year, and they were gone before the turkey hit the table.” – Mia R., home cook and busy mom of four
Because these rolls are both sweet and savory, they play well with various dishes.
Pairing with Soups, Salads, and Main Dishes
You can elevate your menu by pairing your Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls with a suitable meal. Here are some no-fail combos:
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Soups: Creamy tomato soup, broccoli cheddar, or even chicken noodle all match well with the soft and cheesy texture of these rolls.
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Salads: A light Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad balances the richness of the rolls.
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Main Dishes: Think grilled chicken, baked salmon, or even pasta bakes. These rolls are like the perfect sidekick, never stealing the show but always making it better.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Stuffing Balls Recipe .
Storage and Reheating Tips
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
Let’s face it, you probably won’t have many leftovers. But if you do, here’s how to keep your Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls fresh:
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Cool Them Down: Allow the rolls to come to room temperature before storing.
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Wrap Well: Use plastic wrap or foil to tightly seal them. You can also use an airtight container.
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Refrigerate: They’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freeze (Optional): If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.
Pro tip: If you know you’ll want to freeze some, underbake them just slightly and finish baking after reheating to keep them soft inside and crispy on top.
Reheating Methods to Retain Freshness
Nobody likes dry or soggy rolls, so here’s how to get them back to that fresh-from-the-oven taste:
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Oven (Best Option): Preheat to 300°F (150°C), wrap the rolls in foil, and heat for 10 minutes.
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Air Fryer: Perfect for crisping them back up. Heat at 300°F for about 4-5 minutes.
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Microwave (Quick Fix): Wrap a roll in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds. It’ll be warm but slightly softer.
Warning: Don’t overheat. Too much time in the microwave will dry out the cream cheese filling and ruin the texture.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll make sure every leftover bite of your Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls still feels like a warm hug.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown
Let’s be real. Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls aren’t diet food,but they sure are comforting! Knowing what’s inside them can help you enjoy them in moderation without the guilt.
Here’s a simple table to break down the typical nutrition per roll (based on a 12-roll batch):
Nutrient | Per 1 Roll |
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Calories | 210 kcal |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 20g |
Sugar | 5g |
Protein | 5g |
Sodium | 290mg |
Fiber | 1g |
These numbers are estimates and may vary based on the cheese and butter you use. For example, full-fat cream cheese will bump up the calorie count, while using a lighter version will bring it down.
Also, if you top the rolls with extra Parmesan or add hot honey, you’ll want to factor those extras in too.
“I make a lighter version using low-fat cream cheese and skip the topping butter for a weeknight side. Still hits the spot!” – Jen R., health-conscious home cook
Healthier Alternatives and Substitutions
Want to lighten things up without losing all the flavor? Here are some easy swaps to make your Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls a bit healthier:
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Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Swap the regular kind for reduced-fat or whipped cream cheese.
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Whole Wheat Rolls: Use whole wheat slider buns or bake your own for more fiber.
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Less Butter: Reduce the amount of garlic butter brushed on top, or skip the final butter layer altogether.
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More Veggies: Add finely chopped spinach or kale into the filling for a nutrient boost.
You won’t get the exact same rich bite, but these changes can make the rolls fit into your everyday menu a little more easily.
FAQs
What are Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Buns, and how do they differ from traditional garlic bread?
Korean buns with cream cheese and garlic are similar to Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls but with a few key twists. They usually start with a round, crusty bun instead of a soft Hawaiian roll. The filling is sweet and creamy, and the entire bun is dipped in garlic butter before baking. It’s crispier on the outside and has a more pronounced sweet-savory balance.
In contrast, our Hawaiian version is soft, fluffy, and much quicker to prepare. Plus, the sweetness comes from the bread itself, not added sugar.
What ingredients are required to make Hawaiian Rolls with Garlic Cream Cheese?
To make these, you’ll need:
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Hawaiian sweet rolls
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Cream cheese
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Mozzarella cheese
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Garlic
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Parsley
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Butter
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Salt and onion powder
You’ll also need some basic kitchen tools like a knife, bowl, spoon, and oven. That’s it! It is extremely simple and delicious.
For exact measurements and instructions, check out the full recipe in Part 2 above.
How do you prepare and assemble the rolls before baking?
Start by slicing a cross into the top of each roll. Don’t slice all the way through! This creates a little pocket. Next, make the filling with cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Pipe or spoon it into the rolls, brush with garlic butter, and bake until golden.
It’s easy enough for kids to help with,and they’ll love doing it too!
Is it possible to make these rolls without using eggs?
Absolutely. This recipe doesn’t require eggs at all, which makes it ideal for anyone with egg allergies. The creamy texture comes from the cheese and butter mixture, so there’s no need for eggs in the dough or the filling.
If you want a golden finish, though, you can brush the tops with milk instead of an egg wash.
How should I store leftover Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls, and how long will they stay fresh?
After baking, let your rolls cool completely. Store them in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven.
And remember, always reheat just until warm. Overheating can dry out the cheese and make the rolls tough.
Conclusion
Recap of Key Points
By now, you know just how special Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls really are. They’re simple to make, loaded with creamy garlic flavor, and perfect for almost any occasion. Let’s do a quick rewind of what we covered:
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You only need a few basic ingredients like cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic, and sweet rolls.
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The step-by-step prep is easy enough for beginner cooks and even fun for kids to help with.
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You can change things up with hot honey, different cheeses, or whole wheat rolls for a healthy twist.
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These rolls are ideal for dinner, parties, potlucks, or just a cozy snack.
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You can store them well, reheat them beautifully, and freeze them for future cravings.
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And if you’re avoiding eggs? No problem at all.
Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are simple, delicious, and truly unforgettable.
“Once you try these, they’ll be on your regular recipe rotation. They’re just that good.” – Chef Amira
Encouragement to Try the Recipe
Don’t let these stay just words on a screen,go make them! Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe delivers satisfying, mouthwatering results every time.
Grab a pack of Hawaiian rolls, prepare the creamy garlic filling, and let the oven perform its magic. Once those warm, buttery rolls hit the table, you’ll understand why this dish has become such a favorite in kitchens everywhere.
And don’t stop here. Keep experimenting. Try new flavors, add your twist, or serve them at your next dinner party. No matter how you slice it-or stuff it,Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are always a win.
Final Thoughts and Reader Tips
Tips from the Kitchen
Here are a few last-minute gems to help make your rolls flawless:
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Use a piping bag for cleaner filling, especially if you’re making a big batch.
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Don’t skip the garlic butter topping it makes the rolls shine (literally and flavor-wise).
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Serve warm. These are best right out of the oven or gently reheated before serving.
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Consider doubling the batch if you are serving a larger group. Trust us, people always come back for seconds.
Want more cheesy bread recipes? Check out our “Cheesy Stuffed Mozzarella Onion Rings” article,another pull-apart favorite you’ll love!
Keep the Flavor Going
Once you’ve nailed this dish, you might want to branch out and try more recipes with sweet-and-savory vibes. Think garlic knots, stuffed breadsticks, or even cheesy baked sliders.
If you liked these rolls, you’ll probably love:
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Pull-apart cheesy garlic bread
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Cream cheese-stuffed crescent rolls
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Jalapeño cheddar biscuit bombs
You are welcome to get creative in your kitchen,because delicious food is meant to be shared, enjoyed, and, most importantly, made with love.
And that’s a wrap on your Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls guide! Thanks for baking with us,see you in the next recipe adventure.