If there’s a dessert that feels like a tropical vacation in every bite, it’s these Pineapple Sweet Rolls. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls with a luscious, tangy-sweet pineapple filling that melts in your mouth—pure bliss! The subtle warmth of ginger gives just the right hint of spice, making each bite irresistibly comforting and delightfully vibrant. Trust me, the aroma alone as these bake will have you hovering in the kitchen, sneaking little tastes straight from the pan.

Perfect for brunch, a special breakfast, or a weekend treat, these rolls are a little indulgent but not over-the-top. And bonus: the pineapple adds a bright, juicy freshness that feels lighter than your classic cinnamon roll, making them feel almost like dessert and breakfast all at once.

Recipe Origin

Inspired by the classic tropical flavors of pineapple upside-down cake and warm, comforting breakfast rolls, this recipe combines the best of both worlds. Sweet, tangy, and soft, these rolls are an homage to sunny flavors and homemade baking traditions. They take cues from old-fashioned yeast rolls but add a playful, tropical twist that makes them feel special for any occasion.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Medium saucepan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer with dough hook (optional, but helpful)
Whisk and spatula
Rolling pin
9×13-inch baking pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Pastry brush
Cooling rack

Why You’ll Love Pineapple Sweet Rolls

This recipe isn’t just about baking; it’s about creating moments. Here’s why these rolls will quickly become a family favorite:

Soft and Fluffy: The combination of all-purpose and bread flour, along with a touch of eggs and butter, produces rolls that are tender, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth soft.

Tropical Flavor: Sweet pineapple filling with a hint of ginger makes these rolls taste sunny, fresh, and vibrant. It’s like a little slice of paradise with each bite.

Fun and Impressive: These rolls look like they came from a bakery, but they’re surprisingly approachable to make at home. They’re a showstopper for brunches, holidays, or weekend indulgence.

Customizable: Love extra sweetness? Drizzle with icing. Prefer a subtle touch? Serve as-is and let the pineapple flavor shine. You can also add toasted coconut for extra tropical flair.

Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be prepared ahead of time, making your morning baking effortless.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Warm Ingredients: Make sure milk, eggs, and butter are at room temperature to help the yeast activate properly and ensure soft dough.
Kneading: Knead the dough just until smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can make the rolls tough.
Pineapple Juice: Use the reserved pineapple juice from the filling in the dough for extra flavor.
Don’t Rush Rising: Let the dough rise until doubled for fluffy, tender rolls. Patience pays off.
Even Slices: When rolling and cutting the dough, aim for uniform slices so the rolls bake evenly.

Ingredients in Pineapple Sweet Rolls

Here’s the magic behind these tropical rolls—the combination of ingredients creates tender, flavorful dough and a luscious pineapple filling:

Crushed Pineapple: The star of the filling. Sweet, juicy, and bursting with tropical flavor, it’s what makes these rolls unforgettable.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the filling and the dough, creating that perfect balance of richness and freshness.

Ground Ginger: Adds warmth and depth to the pineapple filling, giving it a subtle spice note that enhances the tropical flavor.

Cornstarch: Thickens the pineapple filling so it doesn’t leak or make the rolls soggy, keeping everything perfectly luscious.

Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to both the filling and the dough, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

All-Purpose and Bread Flour: The combo gives the dough structure, softness, and chewiness in all the right places.

Instant Yeast: Activates quickly for a reliable rise, producing soft, airy rolls.

Kosher Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor throughout the dough.

Whole Milk: Adds richness and helps the dough rise beautifully.

Eggs: Provide structure and tenderness, giving the rolls a delicate, fluffy crumb.

Unsweetened Pineapple Juice: Adds tropical flavor and moisture to the dough, tying the filling and dough together.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Prepare the Pineapple Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, ground ginger, cornstarch, and butter. Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let cool while you prepare the dough.

Mix the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flours, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, eggs, and reserved pineapple juice. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a sticky dough forms.

Knead the Dough: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-8 minutes.

First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours depending on room temperature.

Roll and Fill: Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×18 inches. Spread the cooled pineapple filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.

Shape the Rolls: Starting with a long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12-15 equal slices and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.

Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let rise until doubled, about 30-45 minutes.

Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Cool and Serve: Allow rolls to cool slightly before serving. Optional: drizzle with icing, sprinkle with powdered sugar, or enjoy plain.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12-15 rolls
Calories per Serving: Approximately 220-250
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Rising Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Total Time: 2.5-3.5 hours

How to Serve Pineapple Sweet Rolls

These tropical rolls are versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions:

Brunch or Breakfast: Serve warm straight from the oven with coffee or tea.

Dessert: Add a drizzle of glaze or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Special Occasions: Perfect for holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or weekend treats with friends and family.

As-Is: They’re delicious without any toppings too—let the pineapple shine.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep Ahead: Dough can be made the night before and refrigerated. Let it come to room temperature before the second rise.

Storage: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze baked rolls individually or in a pan for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Double the Batch: Easily doubled for large gatherings. Use a larger pan or two 9×13-inch pans.

Variations to Try

Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
Mix in chopped macadamia nuts for extra crunch.
Drizzle with a cream cheese glaze for richer flavor.
Substitute fresh pineapple for canned, adjusting sugar to taste.

Additional Tips

Ensure your dough rises fully for soft, fluffy rolls.
Cool the filling slightly before spreading to prevent soggy dough.
Slice evenly for uniform baking.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A1: Yes! Make sure to finely crush it and cook slightly to reduce moisture.

Q2: Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
A2: Absolutely, use the dough hook for 6-8 minutes until smooth.

Q3: Can I freeze the rolls before baking?
A3: Yes, after shaping, wrap in plastic and freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q4: Can I make smaller rolls?
A4: Yes, cut into more slices for bite-size rolls. Adjust baking time slightly.

Q5: Can I add spices to the filling?
A5: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice pair beautifully with pineapple and ginger.

Q6: Can I make these vegan?
A6: Substitute milk with plant-based milk, butter with vegan butter, and use a vegan egg replacer.

Q7: How do I prevent soggy rolls?
A7: Cook filling until thickened and avoid adding too much liquid to the dough.

Q8: Can I top with icing?
A8: Yes, a simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting works perfectly.

Q9: How long do they keep fresh?
A9: 3 days at room temperature, 5 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q10: Can I make mini rolls for parties?
A10: Definitely! Cut dough into smaller pieces, adjust baking time to 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

These Pineapple Sweet Rolls are a tropical, tender, and utterly delicious treat that will brighten any morning or special occasion. Soft, fluffy, and filled with tangy-sweet pineapple, they’re approachable to make but impressive to serve. Whether you drizzle them with icing, sprinkle with coconut, or enjoy plain, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation. Every bite is a little slice of sunshine—trust me, your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you.

Pineapple Sweet Rolls