The Ultimate Melt-in-Your-Mouth Dessert for Any Occasion

When it comes to effortless baking that delivers show-stopping results, few desserts compete with a Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake. Using the naturally sweet, buttery softness of Hawaiian rolls, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a golden, caramel-drizzled masterpiece. In this guide, we present a rich, SEO-optimized, and highly detailed recipe crafted to help you create the perfect bundt cake—crispy on the edges, tender in the center, and irresistibly fragrant.

We have developed this comprehensive recipe to not only guide you through each step with precision, but also to provide you with deep insights, tips, and variations that elevate your baking experience. This is your new go-to recipe for brunch spreads, holiday gatherings, and cozy weekend treats that look impressive without requiring complicated techniques.

What Makes This Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake So Special?

The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity and flavor depth. Hawaiian rolls already bring a subtle sweetness and soft texture, allowing this bundt cake to achieve:

Light, fluffy layers that absorb the rich cinnamon-brown sugar mixture
Golden, caramelized edges baked to perfection
A buttery aroma that fills your kitchen
A visually stunning presentation from the bundt pan
Quick preparation, perfect for beginner and seasoned bakers alike

This recipe requires only 5 minutes of prep time and 24 minutes of baking, making it an efficient yet impressive dessert.

Ingredients for the Best Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake

To achieve the most flavorful, tender, and perfectly balanced cake, we use the following high-quality ingredients:

Cake Ingredients

1 (12 oz) package Hawaiian Rolls
3 large eggs
¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup melted butter
⅓ cup milk
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Simple Icing

1 tablespoon milk
⅓ cup powdered sugar

Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the eggs providing structure to the melted butter contributing richness.

Step-By-Step Instructions for the Perfect Bundt Cake

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Generously grease your bundt pan to prevent sticking and ensure a clean release. A well-greased pan guarantees the iconic ridges of your bundt remain beautifully defined.

2. Cube the Hawaiian Rolls

Cut the Hawaiian rolls into small, bite-sized cubes. This ensures every piece gets evenly coated with the rich egg-cinnamon mixture, giving your bundt cake a consistent texture throughout.

3. Create the Sweet Cinnamon Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

eggs
brown sugar
milk
cinnamon
melted butter

Whisk until the mixture becomes silky smooth. The combination of brown sugar and butter produces a caramel-like flavor that soaks beautifully into the bread cubes.

4. Coat the Bread Cubes

Pour half of the cinnamon mixture over the bread cubes and gently toss to coat. This ensures the first layer absorbs enough moisture for tenderness while maintaining structure for the bake.

5. Layer Into the Bundt Pan

Transfer the coated bread cubes into your prepared bundt pan. Then, pour the remaining mixture over the top, allowing it to seep into every crevice.

6. Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 22–24 minutes or until:

the top edges turn crispy
the center feels set but soft
the cake has a lightly caramelized exterior

This short baking time ensures the bundt cake remains moist and delicate inside.

7. Cool and Invert

Allow the cake to cool for 3–5 minutes.
Run a knife along the edges, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. The warm cake will release smoothly, revealing its beautiful golden shape.

8. Prepare and Drizzle the Icing

Mix milk and powdered sugar until smooth to create a glossy drizzle. Pour it over the warm cake, allowing the icing to melt slightly into the ridges for added sweetness and shine.

Expert Tips for an Exceptional Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake

Use Fresh Hawaiian Rolls

Soft, fresh rolls absorb the mixture better and provide fluffier texture.

Don’t Overmix the Bread

Gentle tossing prevents the cubes from breaking down, maintaining the cake’s signature pull-apart texture.

Add Extra Flavor Enhancements

For added depth, consider:

A splash of vanilla extract
A handful of chopped pecans
A spoonful of shredded coconut
Chocolate chips for extra indulgence

Allow Slight Cooling Before Inverting

This brief resting period helps the cake maintain shape without becoming soggy or collapsing.

Serving Suggestions

This Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake is delicious on its own, but it becomes unforgettable with these serving ideas:

A drizzle of warm caramel sauce
A dusting of extra powdered sugar
A scoop of vanilla ice cream
A spoonful of warm pineapple compote for a tropical twist

Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or cold brew for the perfect morning treat.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Room Temperature Storage

Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days. It remains soft and moist without refrigeration.

Refrigerating

Store for up to 4 days, though the texture may firm slightly.

Freezing

Slice and wrap portions individually. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-baked finish.

Why This Recipe Works Every Time

This bundt cake succeeds because it relies on:

High-moisture bread from Hawaiian rolls
A rich custard mixture that saturates the bread without overpowering it
A short bake time that maintains tenderness
A simple icing that balances sweetness

The result is a dessert with complex flavor, beautiful presentation, and approachable steps, making it ideal for both casual and special occasions.

Conclusion: A Show-Stopping Dessert with Minimal Effort

This Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake delivers sensational flavor, elegant presentation, and unmatched ease. Whether you’re baking for a brunch, a holiday party, or a quick family dessert, this recipe puts a warm, inviting treat on your table with minimal time and effort. With its caramelized edges, fluffy interior, and sweet icing drizzle, it’s a dessert that will have guests asking for the recipe after the first bite.