As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sautéed onions and char siu pork wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to the vibrant shores of Hawaii. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Baked Manapua recipe, a delightful and comforting dish that masterfully combines sweet-savory flavors wrapped in soft, fluffy buns. Using frozen dinner roll dough not only simplifies the process but also cuts down on time—perfect for busy evenings when you’re yearning for a taste of home-cooked nostalgia. With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Are you ready to bring a touch of aloha to your dining table? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure!
Why Are You Going to Love Baked Manapua?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe uses store-bought frozen dinner rolls to create those soft, puffy buns without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
Heavenly Flavor: The sweet-savory char siu filling will transport your taste buds straight to Hawaii—each bite bursts with rich, umami goodness.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these manapua will be a hit that leaves everyone asking for seconds!
Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? Try swapping in char siu chicken or tofu for a delicious spin suitable for any dietary preference.
Quick and Convenient: With a brief cooking time and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers!
For a bright breakfast option, check out my Peach Baked Oatmeal for a sweet start to your day!
Baked Manapua Ingredients
• Prepare to create the most delightful Baked Manapua with this curated list of ingredients!
For the Dough
- Frozen Dinner Roll Dough – This convenient base provides the fluffy texture for your buns, making preparation a breeze.
- All-Purpose Flour – Use to dust your work surface and prevent the dough from sticking during assembly.
- Egg – For the egg wash, it gives those beautiful golden-brown tops upon baking.
- Cooking Spray – A handy helper to keep your pans and surfaces stick-free during the process.
For the Char Siu Filling
- Char Siu Pork, Diced – The star of the filling, this sweet BBQ pork offers rich flavor and a Hawaiian touch.
- Yellow Onion, Finely Diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the filling with every bite.
- Water Chestnuts, Finely Diced – Provides a delightful crunch and freshness to balance the filling’s richness.
- Green Onion, Sliced – Sprinkling this in adds vibrant color and a subtle bite.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Enhances the sweetness that complements the savory pork.
- Chicken Broth – Ensures your filling stays moist and flavorful throughout.
- Oyster Sauce and Hoisin Sauce – These add umami richness and a tangy sweetness to the mix.
- Sesame Oil – Introduces a distinct aroma that captures the essence of Asian cuisine.
- Cornstarch – A thickening agent that provides a silky texture to the filling.
- Kosher Salt and White Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the overall taste of your filling.
For the Topping
- Honey – For a delightful glaze over the baked buns, lending a touch of sweetness post-baking.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating scrumptiously satisfying Baked Manapua that your family will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Baked Manapua
Step 1: Thaw Dough
Begin by placing your frozen dinner roll dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to thaw for 3–4 hours, ensuring they become puffy and soft. This crucial step sets the foundation for your Baked Manapua, so resist any temptation to rush the thawing process!
Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, warm grapeseed oil and add the finely diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions are translucent, then stir in the diced char siu pork. Add dark brown sugar, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce, mixing thoroughly. Pour in chicken broth, simmering for another 3 minutes before thickening the mixture with a cornstarch slurry—this will create a luscious filling for your Baked Manapua.
Step 3: Assemble Buns
Once your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the buns. Flatten each thawed dough ball on a lightly floured surface, then spoon a generous amount of the char siu filling into the center. Carefully pinch the edges to seal the filling inside, ensuring there are no openings. Place each bun seam side down onto the baking sheet, preparing them for the next step.
Step 4: Proof Buns
After assembling your Baked Manapua, cover the buns loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Allow them to proof for 30 minutes at room temperature. They should rise and puff up slightly, which is essential for achieving the soft texture that makes these buns irresistible.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the final stages of proofing. Once preheated, brush the tops of the buns with an egg wash to achieve that beautiful golden color. Bake the Baked Manapua for 18–20 minutes, observing them turn a lovely golden brown as they cook. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, assuring you that a delicious treat is just around the corner!
Step 6: Serve
After baking, optionally brush the tops with a honey glaze for added sweetness and shine. Allow the Baked Manapua to cool slightly, then serve them hot. Pair these delightful buns with soy sauce or chili garlic sauce for dipping and enjoy the taste of Hawaii right from your kitchen!
Expert Tips for Baked Manapua
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Sealing Technique: Ensure bun edges are tightly pinched to prevent any filling leakage during baking—trust me, it will save you from a messy oven!
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Thawing Time: Don’t rush the thawing process; letting the dough rise properly is crucial for achieving that soft, airy texture in your Baked Manapua.
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Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider using leftovers from a previous char siu meal—this intensifies the deliciousness of your filling!
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Uniform Size: Keep your dough balls the same size for even cooking. Use a kitchen scale for precision if you’re looking to impress!
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Experiment: Feel free to try different fillings like char siu chicken or a veggie mix; the possibilities elevate your Baked Manapua to new heights of deliciousness!
What to Serve with Easy Baked Manapua?
Savor the warmth of Hawaiian comfort food by complementing these fluffy buns with delightful side dishes and drinks.
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Soy Sauce: A classic dipping option that enhances the rich flavors of the char siu filling, adding a savory touch.
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Chili Garlic Sauce: Perfect for those who enjoy a spicy kick, this sauce contrasts beautifully with the sweet-savory buns.
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Crisp Asian Slaw: A refreshing and crunchy salad that balances the richness of the manapua, providing a light texture and zesty flavor.
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Fried Rice: The cozy familiarity of fried rice pairs well, creating a satisfying meal that’s reminiscent of a traditional Hawaiian feast.
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Mango Salad: Bright, fresh mango tossed with lime and cilantro introduces sweetness and zest, refreshing the palate between each savory bite.
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Pineapple Chunks: The natural sweetness of fresh pineapple adds a tropical flair that complements the manapua, elevating the overall dining experience.
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Hawaiian Beer: Enhance your meal with a light, fruity beer that mirrors the sunny vibes of Hawaii and enhances the savory flavors of the dish.
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Lilikoi (Passion Fruit) Juice: Serve this tangy, tropical beverage alongside for a refreshing drink that enhances the sweet aspects of your manapua.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: This indulgent, sweet side makes a comforting match, with its subtle flavors harmonizing beautifully with the char siu filling.
Baked Manapua Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe uniquely yours with these fun variations!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the egg wash for a non-dairy alternative like almond milk for a plant-based option.
- Protein Swap: Use char siu chicken or diced tofu for a lighter twist on the classic filling. The flavor profile remains delightful, yet caters to different preferences.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the filling for an extra kick of heat—perfect for spice lovers!
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped water chestnuts or roasted peanuts for added texture and a delightful crunch. These ingredients elevate the filling, giving it a wonderful contrast.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the filling to brighten the flavor and add freshness—ideal for those seeking a burst of greenery.
- Sweet Surprise: For a sweet twist, try incorporating pineapple chunks into the filling for a tropical flavor to complement the char siu pork. Pair it with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for a delightful sauce option!
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free frozen dough and ensure all ingredients in the filling are gluten-free for a satisfying alternative. Everyone deserves to enjoy these delectable buns!
- Topping Variations: Prior to baking, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or minced fresh herbs on top for an attractive and flavorful finish—perfect for impressing guests.
For a delightful breakfast option, don’t miss my Healthy Breakfast Granola Cups, which also offer a delicious way to start your day!
Storage Tips for Baked Manapua
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Fridge: Store leftover baked manapua in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their delicious flavors and fluffy texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, place baked manapua in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy those frozen delights, simply reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, keeping the crispy exterior intact.
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Defrosting: If frozen, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal taste and texture. Your baked manapua will be as delightful as the day you made them!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Baked Manapua are ideal for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to savor a taste of Hawaii without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the char siu filling up to 3 days in advance; simply cook it as instructed and let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. For best results, you can also assemble the buns and leave them to proof for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover them lightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your manapua, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for that perfect golden finish. You’ll have delicious, homemade buns with minimal effort on busy nights!
Easy Baked Manapua Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best char siu pork for my filling?
Absolutely! Look for char siu pork that has a good balance of meat and fat—this will ensure your filling is moist and flavorful. You’ll want pork that’s tender, ideally marinated well to give it that characteristic sweet-and-savory profile. If you’re making it from scratch, use a recipe that allows the meat to soak up the marinade overnight for maximum flavor.
How should I store leftover baked manapua?
Very simple! Store any leftover baked manapua in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them up—this will prevent moisture buildup and keep them fluffy.
Can I freeze baked manapua? If so, how?
You can definitely freeze baked manapua! To do this, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What should I do if the dough isn’t rising properly?
If your dough isn’t rising as it should, it could be due to a few factors. First, make sure your frozen dinner roll dough is thawed completely and placed in a warm, draft-free area during the proofing stage. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough near a warm appliance or in a slightly warmed oven. If they still don’t puff up, it could be the yeast in the dough; older or expired dough can struggle to rise. Use fresh frozen dough for the best results!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the filling. For a vegetarian option, swap the char siu pork for marinated tofu or a mix of sautéed vegetables. Also, be sure to check the labels of sauces used, as some may contain allergens like soy or sesame. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful taste of baked manapua!
Irresistible Baked Manapua: A Taste of Hawaii at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw your frozen dinner roll dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 3–4 hours.
- In a skillet, heat grapeseed oil and sauté the finely diced yellow onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Add diced char siu pork, dark brown sugar, oyster sauce, and hoisin sauce; mix thoroughly.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for another 3 minutes, then thicken with a cornstarch slurry.
- Flatten thawed dough balls on a floured surface, add filling, and seal the edges before placing seam side down on the baking sheet.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let proof at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and brush tops with egg wash before baking for 18–20 minutes.
- Optionally brush tops with honey glaze, allow to cool slightly, and serve hot.
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