Is there any dairy in Hawaiian rolls? A guide to ingredients and alternatives

November 11, 2025 •

4 min read

For many people with milk allergies, lactose intolerance, or those following a vegan diet, it's crucial to know the ingredients in popular foods. The original King's Hawaiian sweet rolls are made with dairy ingredients, which makes them unsuitable for a strict dairy-free diet.

Quick Summary

Many commercial Hawaiian sweet rolls, including the popular King's Hawaiian brand, contain dairy ingredients like milk and butter. However, several alternative brands and homemade recipes exist for individuals following a dairy-free diet.

Key Points

King's Hawaiian contains dairy: The original sweet rolls from the King's Hawaiian brand include butter, whey, and nonfat milk, making them unsuitable for dairy-free diets.
Many brands offer dairy-free options: Brands like Aldi's L'oven Fresh, Canyon Bakehouse, and JP's Pastry provide alternative Hawaiian-style rolls that are formulated to be dairy-free.
Always read ingredient labels: The presence of dairy varies significantly by brand, so checking the ingredient list for milk, butter, and whey is essential for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Homemade versions can be dairy-free: Creating Hawaiian rolls from scratch allows for complete control over ingredients, enabling easy substitution of milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Watch for hidden dairy ingredients: Look out for terms like whey, casein, and nonfat milk in addition to butter to ensure a product is truly dairy-free.
Gluten-free and dairy-free options exist: Some brands, like Canyon Bakehouse, cater to both gluten-free and dairy-free dietary needs simultaneously.

The Verdict on King's Hawaiian Rolls

For most people, the term "Hawaiian roll" is synonymous with the King's Hawaiian brand, known for its soft, sweet, and fluffy texture. A quick look at the ingredients confirms that the classic King's Hawaiian rolls are not dairy-free. The company's official FAQ states that their products contain dairy, which is why they are certified Kosher Dairy (KD). The ingredient list specifically mentions butter, nonfat milk, and whey as key components, contributing to the rich flavor and soft consistency that consumers love. This means that individuals with a milk allergy, severe lactose intolerance, or those adhering to a vegan diet should avoid the original King's Hawaiian products.

Decoding the Ingredients: What to Look For

When examining the ingredient list of any bread or baked good for dairy, it's important to know what terms to look for. Dairy can appear in many forms beyond just "milk." Being vigilant about reading labels is the most reliable way to ensure a product is dairy-free, especially since ingredients can vary slightly between products and brands. Common dairy-derived ingredients include:

Milk (including powdered, nonfat, and whole milk)
Whey (a byproduct of cheese production)
Butter and butterfat
Casein and caseinates (milk proteins)
Lactose (milk sugar)
Ghee (clarified butter)
Sodium caseinate and calcium caseinate

Commercial Hawaiian Roll Brands: Dairy vs. Dairy-Free

Not all commercial brands follow the same recipe as King's Hawaiian. The following table provides a breakdown of some popular brands and their dairy content, based on available ingredient information. It is always recommended to check the most current label before purchasing.


Brand	Dairy Status	Other Notes	Citations
King's Hawaiian	Contains Dairy	Includes butter, whey, and nonfat milk. Also contains eggs.	,
Aldi's L'oven Fresh	Dairy-Free	A reported dairy-free alternative to King's Hawaiian, though some may find the taste and texture slightly different. Also contains wheat and sesame.
Canyon Bakehouse	Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free	Offers a certified gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free Hawaiian sweet roll option. Uses cane sugar, eggs, and a blend of alternative flours.	,
JP's Pastry	Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free	A specialty brand providing gluten-free and dairy-free soft pull-apart Hawaiian rolls.
Hero Bread	Contains Dairy	A low-carb option that is explicitly made with "real butter and egg," confirming the presence of dairy.
Lewis Bake Shop	Dairy-Free	Offers a 12-pack of Hawaiian Dinner Rolls that does not appear to contain dairy ingredients based on nutrition facts, though a full ingredient check is advised.
Sister Schubert's	Contains Dairy	The ingredient list confirms the presence of eggs and milk.

Making Your Own Dairy-Free Hawaiian Rolls

For those who prefer a homemade approach, making dairy-free Hawaiian rolls from scratch is an excellent option that provides complete control over ingredients. Many recipes are available online, with vegan options that specifically omit both dairy and eggs. The key is to find effective substitutes for traditional dairy components. For example, instead of using whole milk, you can use a plant-based alternative like almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. Similarly, vegan butter sticks or coconut oil can be used in place of regular butter. The sweet, tropical flavor can still be achieved using pineapple juice, honey (if not strictly vegan), and sugar.

Dairy-Free Substitute Options:

Milk: Unsweetened almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.
Butter: Vegan butter sticks or plant-based margarine.
Eggs (if avoiding): Follow a recipe designed for egg-free rolls. Egg replacers or flax eggs can be used in some cases.

Dairy-Free Bread Alternatives Beyond Hawaiian Rolls

If you're seeking sweet, dairy-free bread but don't require the Hawaiian roll style, numerous other options are available. Sourdough bread, for instance, is traditionally made without dairy, using only flour, water, and a starter. Many sprouted bread options are also dairy-free. For wraps or sandwiches, corn tortillas or homemade chickpea flatbreads are naturally dairy-free alternatives. Ultimately, your local grocery store may have other hidden gems, but reading the ingredient label is always paramount.

Conclusion

In summary, the most popular brand of Hawaiian rolls, King's Hawaiian, does contain dairy. However, this does not mean that those with dietary restrictions must miss out on this sweet and fluffy treat. The market offers several commercial alternatives, such as those from Aldi, Canyon Bakehouse, and JP's Pastry, that are dairy-free. For the ultimate control over ingredients and the freshest taste, baking your own Hawaiian rolls at home is a rewarding option, using simple dairy-free substitutions. Always remember to check the ingredient list on any product you purchase to ensure it aligns with your specific dietary needs.

For the latest information directly from the manufacturer, you can visit the King's Hawaiian official FAQ page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dairy ingredients found in many commercial Hawaiian rolls, including King's Hawaiian, include butter (or butterfat), nonfat milk, and whey. These ingredients are used to create the rich flavor and soft, fluffy texture.

No, not all Hawaiian rolls contain dairy. While the popular King's Hawaiian brand uses dairy, several alternative brands and specialty recipes are specifically formulated to be dairy-free.

Dairy-free alternatives include specific brand versions like Aldi's L'oven Fresh and Canyon Bakehouse. You can also make homemade rolls using plant-based milk and butter substitutes, or opt for naturally dairy-free breads like sourdough.

No, it is not safe for individuals with a milk allergy to consume King's Hawaiian rolls. The manufacturer confirms the presence of milk-derived ingredients such as butter, nonfat milk, and whey.

Yes, you can easily make homemade Hawaiian rolls without dairy. Replace the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk or soy milk, and use vegan butter or oil in place of regular butter.

The most reliable method is to check the ingredient label for milk, butter, whey, casein, or other milk-derived components. For severe allergies, also be aware of potential cross-contamination warnings on the packaging.

Yes, certain brands offer vegan Hawaiian rolls, which are inherently dairy-free. Look for products specifically labeled as vegan or check the ingredients list for confirmation that no milk or egg products are used.