Hawaiian sweet rolls, with their soft, slightly sweet texture, are a beloved treat. But why limit ourselves to the classic? Let’s embark on a culinary adventure, blending the familiar with the exotic to create a truly unique dish.

Ingredients:

For the Sweet Rolls:

1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)

1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

3 1/2 cups bread flour

1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Process:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.

Add the egg, melted butter, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling:

In a small bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. Shape the Rolls:

Roll out the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.

Spread the filling evenly over the dough.

Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side.

Cut the roll into 12 equal pieces.

Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

Cover and let rise for 30 minutes, or until slightly puffy.

4. Bake:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Prepare the Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

6. Glaze the Rolls:

Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls.

Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Serving Ideas:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

Create a breakfast sandwich by adding scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.

A Fusion of Flavors

This recipe is a harmonious blend of cultures. The soft, pillowy dough is a nod to classic American baking, while the sweet and spicy filling draws inspiration from the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. The glaze, a simple yet elegant touch, adds a touch of sophistication.

As we savor each bite of this delightful fusion, we’re reminded of the power of culinary creativity. By blending traditions and experimenting with flavors, we can create truly unique and memorable dishes.