Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls

Name: Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 2 tbsp green onion, diced; 1 tbsp parsley, chopped; 1 tsp garlic, minced (for filling); 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt (for filling); 1/4 tsp sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tbsp parsley, chopped (for butter); 1 tsp garlic, minced (for butter); 1/2 tsp salt (for butter); 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe

There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when you combine the warm, fluffy sweetness of Hawaiian rolls with the creamy, garlicky goodness of a cheese filling. The first time I made these garlic cream cheese Hawaiian rolls, it was a last-minute decision for a family potluck. I didn’t have time to fuss over a complicated dish, and these rolls came together so effortlessly that I couldn’t believe how fast they disappeared from the table. Everyone wanted the recipe, and I realized I had stumbled upon the perfect easy sheet pan dinner side—or even a standalone snack.

What makes these rolls a standout for beginner cooks is how forgiving and flexible they are. There’s no dough to knead, no yeast to activate, and everything comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, the ingredients are everyday staples, and the flavor payoff is huge. If you’re just starting out in the kitchen and want to impress with minimal stress, this recipe is your new go-to.

Why This Recipe is Special

This recipe transforms humble store-bought Hawaiian rolls into a savory treat that tastes homemade. The garlic cream cheese filling is rich, tangy, and deeply flavorful, while the garlic butter glaze crisps up the tops and edges into golden perfection. It’s a beginner-friendly, no-fail dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to master. Best of all, it’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, snack, or side for quick and healthy meals.

Ingredients and Preparation

Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
These are the base of the recipe—soft, slightly sweet, and fluffy. Their light texture balances the richness of the filling. Any brand will work, but the classic 12-count King’s Hawaiian rolls are a favorite. Substitute with dinner rolls or brioche if needed.

Cream Cheese
Acts as the creamy foundation of the filling. Use it at room temperature for easier mixing. It adds richness and tang, helping the filling hold its shape when baked.

Mozzarella Cheese
Adds a gooey, melty texture and mild flavor that complements the cream cheese without overpowering it. You can swap it with Monterey Jack or mild cheddar.

Green Onion
Provides a sharp, fresh contrast to the rich filling. It adds brightness and a slight crunch. Chives or finely diced red onion can work as alternatives.

Parsley
Used both in the filling and on top for a pop of color and mild herbaceousness. Fresh is best, but dried parsley can be used in a pinch.

Garlic (Minced)
Key for that punchy, savory depth. It flavors both the filling and the garlic butter. Pre-minced garlic from a jar works, but fresh garlic elevates the flavor.

Onion Powder
Enhances the savory flavor profile. Adds subtle background notes without the texture of raw onion.

Salt and Sugar
These balance the flavors. Salt sharpens everything, while a touch of sugar in the filling brings out the natural sweetness of the rolls.

Unsalted Butter (Melted)
Used to create the garlic butter glaze that soaks into the rolls, crisps them up, and adds indulgent flavor.

Parmesan Cheese (Grated)
Optional but recommended for a nutty, salty finish on top. It adds texture and a beautiful golden color when melted.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 Bring your cream cheese to room temperature to make mixing easier. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped green onion, parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 2 Transfer the mixture into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off for easy filling. Set it aside while you prepare the rolls.

Step 3 Using a serrated knife, make a cross-cut on the top of each roll, slicing about halfway down to create four connected sections. Be careful not to slice all the way through.

Step 4 Gently open each crosscut and pipe or spoon in the cream cheese mixture. Don’t worry if it gets a bit messy—it will all melt into deliciousness during baking.

Step 5 In a separate small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, and salt to create the garlic butter. Brush this generously over the tops of the stuffed rolls.

Step 6 Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 13–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the filling is hot and slightly bubbly.

Step 7 Once out of the oven, brush with any remaining garlic butter and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese for an extra savory punch. Serve warm for the best experience.

Beginner Tips and Notes

No piping bag? No problem. A ziplock bag with the corner snipped off works perfectly, or just use a spoon.
Overbrowning rolls? Tent the baking tray with foil halfway through if the tops are browning too quickly.

Cream cheese too stiff? Microwave it in 10-second intervals until soft enough to mix easily.
Short on time? You can mix the filling ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
Prep smarter: Chop all herbs and aromatics before starting, and use pre-shredded cheese if you’re in a rush.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic cream cheese Hawaiian rolls are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with soups like tomato bisque, hearty stews, or a fresh salad for a quick and healthy meal. Serve them as a holiday appetizer, a game-day snack, or a comforting side to your favorite main dish.

Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes, or microwave in short bursts.

Conclusion

Whether you’re brand new to the kitchen or just looking for a stress-free way to make something crowd-pleasing, these garlic cream cheese Hawaiian rolls deliver. They’re quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress without any complicated steps. If you give them a try, I’d love to hear how it went—leave a comment and share your twist on this easy sheet pan dinner idea. Happy cooking!

FAQ About Garlic Cream Cheese Hawaiian Rolls

1. Can I make these garlic cream cheese rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the rolls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving for the freshest results.

2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Wrap the rolls in foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for 8–10 minutes. This keeps them soft and prevents the filling from drying out.

3. Can I use different cheeses in the filling?

Absolutely. Mozzarella is used for its meltiness, but you can try Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a little feta for a tangier twist.

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