If you're searching for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious dessert, look no further than this Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake. Imagine a delightful fusion of monkey bread and bread pudding—sweet, buttery, and irresistibly rich. This cake is made with just a handful of ingredients and comes together in less than half an hour, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering, a casual brunch, or simply indulging in a midweek sweet craving, this cake is sure to become a favorite. The combination of fluffy Hawaiian rolls, rich brown sugar, and warm cinnamon creates a comforting dessert that's both simple and satisfying. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful treat!
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your Bundt pan is thoroughly greased to prevent the cake from sticking. A non-stick spray or butter will work perfectly for this.
Prepare the Rolls:
Take the package of Hawaiian rolls and cut them into small cubes. The sweet, soft texture of these rolls is what makes this dessert so special, so be sure to cut them into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, and cinnamon until smooth. This mixture will serve as the custard base for your cake, infusing the rolls with rich flavor as they bake.
Combine the Rolls and Custard:
Add the cubed rolls into the large mixing bowl with the custard mixture. Pour half of the custard over the bread cubes, and gently toss to coat. The goal is to ensure every piece of bread absorbs some of the custard, so take your time to mix it well.
Assemble the Cake:
Transfer the coated bread cubes into the prepared Bundt pan. Once the bread cubes are in the pan, pour the remaining custard mixture evenly over the top, making sure the bread is thoroughly saturated.
Bake the Cake:
Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-24 minutes. The cake is done when the edges are crispy and golden brown. Be sure to check that the center is cooked through by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
Cool and Invert the Cake:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 3-5 minutes. This brief cooling period will make it easier to remove from the pan. Run a knife along the edges and the center of the pan to loosen the cake. Then, carefully invert the Bundt pan onto your favorite serving plate.
Prepare the Icing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and powdered sugar until smooth. This simple icing adds a sweet finishing touch that perfectly complements the warm cinnamon flavor of the cake.
Drizzle and Serve:
Drizzle the icing over the top of the warm cake, letting it cascade down the sides for a beautiful presentation. The icing will slightly harden as it cools, creating a delightful contrast to the soft, warm cake beneath.
Bonus Tip:
For an extra indulgent twist, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the bread mixture before baking. The nuts add a lovely crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls and the warmth of the cinnamon. Additionally, if you're serving this cake as part of a brunch spread, try topping it with fresh berries for a pop of color and a burst of fruity freshness.
Conclusion:
This Hawaiian Roll Bundt Cake is a quick and easy dessert that delivers big on flavor and comfort. The sweet, buttery Hawaiian rolls soak up the rich custard, creating a cake that's wonderfully moist and full of warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness. The simple powdered sugar icing adds just the right amount of sweetness to finish off this delightful treat. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy. Best of all, it requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any time you need a delicious dessert in a hurry. Enjoy each warm, gooey bite of this comforting cake—your taste buds will thank you!