Boston Cream Hawaiian Roll “Donuts” are a fun, no‑fry twist on the classic pastry, made by transforming soft Hawaiian rolls into indulgent treats. Each roll is hollowed slightly and filled generously with smooth, velvety vanilla custard for that signature Boston cream flavor. The tops are dipped in rich, glossy chocolate ganache, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess in every bite. These easy, crowd‑pleasing “donuts” require no baking skills, making them ideal for parties, brunches, or quick dessert cravings. Their pillowy texture pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and chocolate topping. Simple to make yet irresistibly delicious, they bring bakery‑style charm to your kitchen in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 count) package Hawaiian rolls, separated into 12 rolls
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 (3,5 ounce) package vanilla instant pudding mix, such as Jell-O®
- 1 1/2 cups whipped topping
- 1 3/4 cups milk, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Brush rolls with melted butter on all sides and place on a baking sheet.
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Bake in the preheated oven until lightly browned and toasted, 5 to 7 minutes.
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Whisk pudding mix, 1 1/2 cups milk, vanilla, and salt together in a bowl until well combined and thickened. Fold in whipped topping. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set up; transfer filling to a piping bag or a plastic bag. Make a small cut in the corner if using a plastic bag.
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Use a paring knife to make a small cut into one side of each roll, creating an opening large enough to pipe filling into without going all the way through. Fill each hole with about 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons filling.
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Heat remaining 1/4 cup milk until scalding in the microwave, 30 to 40 seconds. Place chocolate chips in a shallow bowl, and pour in hot milk. Let stand 10 seconds; stir until smooth. Heat in the microwave 15 seconds if necessary to finish melting the chocolate.
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Line a tray with parchment. Dip the top of each filled roll in chocolate; place on the tray to cool completely and for chocolate to harden slightly, about 20 minutes, or refrigerate for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
