Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that make for an irresistible appetizer or snack. These rolls start with the beloved Hawaiian sweet rolls, known for their soft texture and slightly sweet taste. What makes this dish truly special is the rich garlic cream cheese filling that is carefully piped into the rolls, offering a creamy, cheesy experience with every bite.

Hawaiian rolls have become a popular choice in a variety of recipes, particularly for appetizers and snacks, due to their versatile nature. Their inherent sweetness pairs beautifully with savory ingredients, making them the perfect canvas for creative fillings and toppings. The combination of the rolls’ sweetness with the savory, garlicky cream cheese filling results in a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.

Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a satisfying snack, or simply want to elevate your dinner table, these Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a crowd-pleaser. The recipe is easy to follow, yet the result is a dish that feels gourmet, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced home cooks.

Ingredients Breakdown

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

Hawaiian sweet rolls are the cornerstone of this recipe, prized for their soft, pillowy texture and subtly sweet flavor. Originating from the classic Portuguese sweet bread, these rolls have become a staple in many households, especially as a base for appetizers and snacks. Their slightly sweet taste contrasts beautifully with savory fillings, making them ideal for this recipe. The compact size and uniformity of these rolls also make them perfect for filling and baking, ensuring that every bite is consistently delicious.

Garlic Cream Cheese Filling

The garlic cream cheese filling is the heart of this dish, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for creating a smooth and creamy filling that’s easy to pipe into the rolls. The creaminess of the cheese ensures a rich texture that complements the softness of the Hawaiian rolls.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adding shredded mozzarella to the filling enhances its creaminess and provides a delightful stretch when the rolls are baked. Mozzarella’s mild flavor blends well with the other ingredients, allowing the garlic and herbs to shine.
Green Onion & Parsley: Fresh green onion and parsley are incorporated to add brightness and a subtle, herbaceous note to the filling. These herbs balance the richness of the cheeses, offering a fresh contrast to the creamy texture.

Garlic & Onion Powder: These aromatics are key to the filling’s savory profile. Minced garlic infuses the filling with a robust, pungent flavor, while onion powder adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt & Sugar: A small amount of salt enhances the overall flavor of the filling, while a touch of sugar balances the savory elements, ensuring that the filling is flavorful but not overwhelming.

Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is brushed onto the rolls before and after baking, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred in this recipe as it allows for better control of the overall salt content. Melted butter soaks into the rolls, making them even more tender and flavorful.
Garlic & Parsley: The minced garlic in the butter gives the rolls a bold, savory kick, while parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Together, they enhance the flavor of the rolls, making them irresistible.
Salt: A pinch of salt in the garlic butter ensures that the savory flavors are well-rounded, complementing the sweetness of the rolls without overpowering them.

Preparation of Garlic Cream Cheese Filling

Creating the perfect garlic cream cheese filling is a crucial step in ensuring that your Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a hit. The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail to achieve the right texture and flavor balance. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Process of Mixing the Filling

Start with Softened Cream Cheese:
- Begin by placing 8 ounces of cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. It’s important that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. If it’s too cold, it will be difficult to mix and may result in a lumpy filling.

Add Mozzarella Cheese:
- Next, add 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl. The mozzarella not only contributes to the creaminess but also provides that desirable stretchiness when the rolls are baked.
Incorporate Fresh Herbs:
- Add 2 tablespoons of diced green onion and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley to the bowl. These herbs should be fresh, as they add a vibrant flavor and a hint of color to the filling.
Mix in the Aromatics:
- To the mixture, add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. These ingredients are essential for imparting a rich, savory flavor to the filling.

Seasoning:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of sugar to the mixture. The salt enhances the flavors, while the sugar subtly balances the savory ingredients, preventing the filling from tasting too harsh.
Combine the Ingredients:
- Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, mix all the ingredients together. If using a hand mixer, start on a low setting to avoid splattering, then gradually increase the speed to ensure everything is well combined.

Importance of Properly Combining the Ingredients

Properly combining the ingredients is crucial for several reasons:

Texture: To achieve a smooth, creamy texture that’s easy to pipe into the rolls, it’s essential that all the ingredients are fully integrated. If not mixed well, the filling can be uneven, with some bites overly salty or garlicky, while others are bland.

Flavor Distribution: Thorough mixing ensures that the flavors of the garlic, onion powder, and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the filling. This consistency is key to ensuring that each roll has the same delicious flavor in every bite.

Tips for Achieving a Smooth and Creamy Filling

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always start with softened cream cheese, as this makes it easier to blend with the other ingredients. If you forget to soften the cream cheese, you can microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to melt it.
Gradual Mixing: When using a hand mixer, start on low speed and gradually increase to medium-high. This helps to evenly incorporate the ingredients without over-mixing, which can lead to a dense texture.

Scrape the Sides: Periodically scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated, especially the herbs and spices that might stick to the edges.
Check Consistency: The filling should be smooth, spreadable, and without lumps. If it’s too thick, you can add a tiny bit of milk or cream to loosen it up, but do so sparingly to avoid making it too runny.

Preparing the Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is a key component of the Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls, adding a rich, savory finish to the dish. Preparing it is simple, but attention to detail is necessary to get the best flavor without burning the garlic.

Instructions

Melt the Butter:
- Begin by placing 1/2 cup (one stick) of unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Heat the butter over low to medium heat until it’s fully melted. Stir occasionally to ensure it melts evenly.
Add Garlic:
- Once the butter is melted, add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to the saucepan. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly. It’s important to keep the heat low to prevent the garlic from burning, which can give it a bitter taste.
Incorporate Parsley:
- After the garlic has cooked for about 1-2 minutes and has become fragrant (but not browned), remove the saucepan from the heat. Immediately stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. The residual heat will soften the parsley without cooking it, preserving its fresh flavor and vibrant color.

Tips for Ensuring the Garlic Doesn’t Burn

Low Heat: Always cook garlic on low to medium heat. High heat can cause it to brown too quickly and burn, resulting in a bitter flavor.
Constant Stirring: Keep stirring the garlic as it cooks. This prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pan, where it’s more likely to burn.
Add Parsley Off Heat: Adding parsley after removing the pan from heat ensures it retains its bright green color and fresh taste, rather than wilting and becoming dull.

Preparing the Rolls

The preparation of the Hawaiian rolls is a crucial step in ensuring that the Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls come out perfectly. This involves making precise cuts to the rolls and filling them adequately with the garlic cream cheese mixture.

Making the Crosscuts

Position the Rolls:
- Place the 12-count Hawaiian sweet rolls on a cutting board. It’s best to keep the rolls connected as a single block, as this will make the cutting process easier and more uniform.

Make the First Cut:
- Using a sharp, serrated knife, carefully make a horizontal cut halfway down each roll. The goal is to create a deep pocket without cutting all the way through, so the rolls remain connected at the bottom.
Create the Crosscut:
- Next, rotate the rolls 90 degrees and make another horizontal cut, intersecting the first one. This cut should also be halfway down, forming a cross shape. Be careful to cut deeply enough to create a good pocket for the filling but not so deep that the rolls fall apart.
Importance of Even Cuts:
- Creating even, consistent cuts is essential for uniform filling distribution. Uneven cuts can lead to some rolls being overfilled and others underfilled, affecting both the taste and appearance of the final dish. Taking your time to ensure the cuts are as uniform as possible will result in better presentation and flavor balance.

Filling the Rolls

Prepare the Piping Bag:
- Transfer the prepared garlic cream cheese filling into a piping bag fitted with a large, round tip. If you don’t have a piping bag, a resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off can be used as an alternative.
Pipe the Filling:
- Insert the piping tip into the crosscut of each roll and gently squeeze the bag to fill the pocket. Start in the center and work your way around the cuts, ensuring the filling reaches all parts of the roll. Be sure to fill each roll evenly, using a consistent amount of pressure on the piping bag.
Check for Adequate Filling:
- After piping, visually inspect each roll to ensure they are adequately filled. The filling should be visible in the cuts but not overflowing. If necessary, go back and add more filling to any underfilled rolls.

Tips for Effective Filling

Use Room Temperature Filling: Ensure the garlic cream cheese filling is at room temperature. This makes it easier to pipe and prevents clogging in the piping bag.
Steady Hand: Hold the piping bag with a steady hand and apply even pressure as you pipe. This helps maintain control over the amount of filling and ensures consistency across all rolls.
Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the rolls, as this can cause the filling to spill out during baking, leading to a messier presentation. A moderate amount of filling will expand slightly as it heats, perfectly filling the pocket.

Baking the Rolls

Baking the Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls is the final step in bringing this delicious dish together. Proper baking ensures that the rolls are perfectly golden and the filling is warm and melty.

Preheating the Oven

Importance of Preheating:
- Before you begin baking, it’s crucial to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the oven reaches the correct temperature before the rolls are placed inside, allowing for even cooking from the moment they enter the oven. This step is essential for achieving the ideal texture, where the rolls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Maintaining the Right Temperature:
- Once the oven is preheated, maintain the temperature throughout the baking process. Fluctuations in temperature can cause uneven baking, where some rolls may cook faster than others, leading to inconsistent results.

Baking Instructions

Place the Rolls in the Oven:
- Position the prepared rolls on the middle rack of the preheated oven. This placement ensures even heat distribution around the rolls, preventing them from burning on the bottom or top.
Monitor the Rolls:
- Bake the rolls for 13-15 minutes. It’s important to monitor them closely during this time, especially towards the end of the baking period. Overcooking can lead to dry rolls and an overcooked filling. Start checking the rolls at the 12-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

What to Look For:
- The rolls are ready when the tops are golden brown, and the filling is visibly melted and slightly bubbling. The aroma of garlic and butter should fill your kitchen, signaling that they are almost done. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the rolls with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

Post-Baking Instructions

Applying Garlic Butter:
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the remaining garlic butter. The warmth of the rolls will help the butter to melt and seep into the bread, enhancing the flavor and adding a glossy finish.
Adding Parmesan Cheese:
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the tops of the warm rolls. The heat from the rolls will slightly melt the Parmesan, adding a delicious, salty finish that complements the garlic butter.

Serving:
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This resting time lets the filling set slightly, making them easier to handle and even more enjoyable to eat.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven, when the filling is at its most gooey and the rolls are tender. These rolls make an excellent appetizer or snack for parties and gatherings, where their rich, savory flavor can be fully appreciated.

For a heartier meal, serve these rolls as a side dish. They pair wonderfully with a variety of soups, such as tomato basil, creamy potato, or a rich broccoli cheddar soup. The creamy filling in the rolls complements the texture of these soups, making for a comforting and satisfying combination.

Additionally, these rolls work well alongside fresh salads, especially those with tangy dressings like balsamic vinaigrette or lemon garlic. The bright acidity of the salad balances the richness of the rolls, creating a well-rounded meal.

Whether as an appetizer, side, or snack, these rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips and Variations

Variations

Cheese Variations:
- While mozzarella and cream cheese are classic choices, you can experiment with different cheeses to change the flavor profile. Try using sharp cheddar for a bolder taste, or add a bit of Gruyère for a nutty, savory twist. For a more adventurous option, incorporate blue cheese for a tangy, robust filling.
Adding Meat:
- For a heartier version, add cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken to the cream cheese filling. These additions introduce a savory, meaty element that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and garlic flavors.
Herb Variations:
- Customize the herb blend by adding fresh basil, thyme, or chives. These herbs can bring different notes of freshness and complexity to the filling, enhancing the overall taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing Ahead:
- You can prepare the garlic cream cheese filling and cut the rolls a day in advance. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator and the cut rolls in a sealed bag at room temperature. When ready to bake, simply pipe the filling into the rolls, brush with garlic butter, and bake as instructed.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:
- If you have leftover rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep the rolls fresh and prevents the filling from drying out.
Reheating:
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet and cover them with foil to prevent them from drying out. Warm them in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This method preserves the softness of the rolls and the gooeyness of the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can definitely use different types of cheese in this recipe. While mozzarella and cream cheese provide a creamy and mild base, other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère can be used to introduce a bolder flavor. Just keep in mind that stronger cheeses might alter the overall taste profile, so choose based on your preference.

2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, these rolls can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the garlic cream cheese filling and cut the rolls a day in advance. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator and the cut rolls at room temperature. When ready to bake, simply fill, brush with garlic butter, and bake as instructed. This makes it convenient to have freshly baked rolls ready in no time.

3. How do I store leftover rolls?

Leftover rolls should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), cover the rolls with foil, and warm them for about 10 minutes until they are heated through. This will help retain their softness and flavor.

4. Can I use store-bought garlic butter?

Yes, store-bought garlic butter can be used as a convenient alternative. However, making your own garlic butter allows you to control the flavors and freshness, especially the intensity of the garlic and the herbs used. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality brand to ensure a rich, authentic taste.

5. What can I pair these rolls with?

These rolls pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside soups like tomato basil or creamy potato soup for a comforting meal. They also complement fresh salads, especially those with tangy dressings, or can be served as an appetizer with dips. Their versatility makes them a great addition to any meal.

Conclusion

Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them an irresistible addition to any meal or gathering. The recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward steps that even a novice cook can master. From preparing the creamy garlic filling to brushing on the rich garlic butter, each part of the process is designed to enhance the deliciousness of these soft, pillowy rolls.

The end result is a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, yet is accessible to anyone who enjoys baking. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. The flexibility of the recipe also allows for customization, so you can tailor the flavors to your liking or experiment with different cheeses and add-ins.

We encourage you to try making these Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls at home. They’re a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. Once you’ve had a taste of these warm, cheesy, garlicky rolls, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls

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