Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake – Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, this Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake is just the thing. It takes the soft, sweet, pillowy texture of classic Hawaiian rolls and transforms them into a rich, cinnamon-scented bundt cake that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The result is a wonderfully tender crumb with a golden, buttery crust and a simple sweet icing that glazes every nook and cranny.

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, using everyday ingredients and store-bought rolls to create something that feels entirely homemade and special. It’s an excellent choice for holiday mornings, potluck dinners, or any time you want to serve a crowd-pleasing treat with minimal fuss. The cake is moist, flavourful, and just sweet enough to satisfy any craving without being overwhelming.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 (12 oz) package Hawaiian rolls
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Icing:

  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • ⅓ cup powdered sugar, sifted

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 10- to 12-cup bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray, making sure to reach all the crevices.
  3. Cut the Hawaiian rolls into bite-sized chunks (about 1-inch pieces) and set aside in a large bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

  1. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
  2. Pour the wet mixture over the cut rolls and gently stir with a spatula to coat every piece evenly. Take care not to overmix or break the rolls apart too much.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Transfer the coated roll pieces into the prepared bundt pan, pressing them down gently to create an even layer.
  2. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Icing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and powdered sugar until smooth and pourable. If the icing is too thick, add a few more drops of milk; if too thin, add a little more sugar.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the icing generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  2. Slice and serve as a delightful dessert, sweet breakfast treat, or afternoon snack.

Cook Notes and Variations

Cook Notes:

  • Cut the rolls into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure they bake evenly and the cake holds together well.
  • Be gentle when folding the rolls into the batter—you want them coated, not mashed, so the cake retains its characteristic fluffy texture.

Variations:

  • Fruity twist: Fold in 1 cup of diced apples, fresh blueberries, or even crushed pineapple (well-drained) for added sweetness and moisture.
  • Nutty cake: Stir in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for extra crunch and warmth.
  • Spiced cake: Add ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice alongside the cinnamon for a deeper, more aromatic flavour.
  • Chocolate drizzle: Replace the icing with a rich chocolate glaze made by melting ½ cup of chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of cream, then drizzling over the cooled cake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, any soft, sweet bread will work, but Hawaiian rolls give this cake its distinctive, lightly sweet flavour and exceptionally tender texture.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavour and texture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake the cake a day in advance and keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature. Add the icing just before serving for the prettiest presentation.

What can I serve with this cake?
This bundt cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a more indulgent dessert, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminium foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature and glazing.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable. It’s sweet, buttery, and comforting—everything a good bundt cake should be. The soft, pull-apart texture makes it almost as fun to eat as it is to make, and the versatile recipe invites you to add your own favourite mix-ins and flavour twists.

Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying a quiet slice with your morning coffee, this cake is guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. So preheat your oven, grab a packet of Hawaiian rolls, and get ready to bake a treat that will quickly become a family favourite. Happy baking!

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