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Sourdough Hawaiian Rolls - Soft, Sweet, and Perfect for Sharing

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 12 servings

Ingredients

  • Active sourdough starter: 150 g (fed and bubbly)
  • Pineapple juice: 180 g (room temperature, not cold)
  • Whole milk: 60 g (room temperature)
  • Honey: 50 g
  • Brown sugar: 40 g (light or dark)
  • Unsalted butter: 70 g (softened)
  • Eggs: 2 large (room temperature)
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Fine sea salt: 9 g
  • Bread flour: 480–520 g (start low, add as needed)
  • Optional flavor boosters: 1 tablespoon dry milk powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Egg wash: 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk
  • Finishing butter: 2 tablespoons melted butter + pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Make sure your starter is ready. Feed your starter 4–8 hours before mixing, depending on room temperature. It should be bubbly, doubled, and pass the float test.
  • Combine liquids and sugars. In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk pineapple juice, milk, honey, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and starter until smooth.
  • Add dry ingredients. Mix in salt, optional milk powder and ginger, and 450 g of bread flour. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Knead and add butter. Knead on low (dough hook) for 3–4 minutes, then add softened butter in pieces. Continue kneading 6–8 minutes, adding additional flour 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough is soft, slightly tacky, and clears the bowl. It should be elastic and not overly sticky.
  • First rise (bulk ferment). Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise at 75–78°F for 3–4 hours. Perform 2–3 stretch-and-folds during the first 90 minutes to build strength.
  • Cold proof for flavor (optional but recommended). After the dough has risen by about 60–75%, cover and refrigerate 8–16 hours. This improves flavor and makes shaping easier.
  • Divide and shape. Turn the chilled or room-temp dough onto a lightly floured surface. Weigh and divide into 12 equal pieces (about 80–85 g each). Shape each piece into a tight ball by tucking edges underneath and rolling against the counter.
  • Second rise. Arrange balls in a buttered 9x13-inch pan, spacing evenly. Cover and let rise until puffy and touching, 2–4 hours depending on temperature. They should look light and marshmallowy.
  • Preheat and egg wash. Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush rolls gently with egg wash for a glossy, golden top.
  • Bake. Bake 22–26 minutes until deep golden brown and the center roll reads 195–200°F. If browning too fast, tent with foil near the end.
  • Finish with butter. Brush hot rolls with melted butter and a pinch of salt. Cool 15–20 minutes before pulling apart.