Hawaiian rolls and slider buns are two popular types of dinner rolls. At first glance, they may look very similar – small, sweet, pillowy buns perfect for sandwiches or just eating by themselves. However, there are some key differences between Hawaiian rolls and slider buns that distinguish them from one another.
In this article, we will compare Hawaiian rolls and slider buns side-by-side. We will examine their ingredients, texture, taste, size, and best uses. Read on to find out if Hawaiian rolls and slider buns are really the same thing or not!
Ingredients
The primary ingredients in both Hawaiian rolls and slider buns are quite similar. They typically contain:
- Flour – Usually a blend of all-purpose and bread flours
- Yeast – For rising/leavening
- Sugar – For sweetness and browning
- Milk – Adds richness and softness
- Eggs – Also help with richness and structure
- Butter or oil – For moisture and tenderness
- Salt – For flavor
However, Hawaiian rolls tend to have a higher sugar content than slider buns. The extra sugar gives Hawaiian rolls their signature sweet flavor. Slider buns may only have a tablespoon or two of sugar while Hawaiian roll recipes can call for 1/4 cup or more.
The higher sugar content of Hawaiian rolls also means they brown faster and more deeply during baking. Slider buns achieve a pale golden color versus the deep amber color of Hawaiian rolls.
Lastly, Hawaiian rolls also sometimes contain pineapple juice or crushed pineapple. This tropical ingredient amps up the sweetness and gives a subtle fruitiness. Slider buns do not contain any pineapple flavorings.
Texture
Despite their similar list of ingredients, Hawaiian rolls and slider buns differ quite a bit in their texture:
Hawaiian Rolls
– Light and fluffy
– Pillowy soft
– Fine, tender crumb
– Soft outer crust
Slider Buns
– Denser and chewier
– Sturdier crumb
– Less airy
– Crust can be soft or crispy
The higher sugar and fat content of Hawaiian rolls gives them a melted-in-your-mouth softness. Enriched doughs with more sugar and fat stay softer for longer. Hawaiian rolls are meant to be pillowy clouds of bread.
Slider buns have a tighter crumb and sturdier structure to support the weight of burger patties and other fillings. They have a more substantial mouthfeel compared to the featherlight Hawaiian rolls.
Taste
As hinted at earlier, the most pronounced taste difference between Hawaiian rolls and slider buns is sweetness:
Hawaiian Rolls
– Sweet and buttery
– Hint of vanilla
– Subtle fruitiness from pineapple (optional)
Slider Buns
– More savory than sweet
– Can have hints of wheat
– Less buttery than Hawaiian rolls
– No noticeable fruit flavors
Hawaiian rolls deliver a sweet, buttery, slightly tropical flavor. They taste like a dessert! Slider buns tend to be more savory and plain – the better to complement cheeseburgers, pulled pork, or other robust fillings. The sweetness would compete too much.
Some slider bun recipes lean into savory flavors through ingredients like garlic, onion, and herbs. Hawaiian rolls reflect their island origins with sweeter tastes.
Size
When it comes to size, Hawaiian rolls and slider buns have clear differences:
Hawaiian Rolls
– Larger and flatter
– 3-4 inches across
– Better for pulled pork sandwiches
Slider Buns
– Smaller and rounder
– 2-3 inches across
– Perfect size for mini burgers
Hawaiian rolls are meant to be used for full-sized sandwiches. Their larger circumference provides more space for fillings. Slider buns are petite to match the small patties they were designed to hold.
You could technically use Hawaiian rolls for sliders and vice versa. But the size differential means they really work best for their intended purposes.
Best Uses
Based on their distinct characteristics, Hawaiian rolls and slider buns each shine in different culinary applications:
Hawaiian Rolls Best Uses
– Pulled pork sandwiches
– BBQ chicken sandwiches
– Dinner rolls
– French toast
– Bread pudding
– Sandwich base for potlucks or parties
Slider Buns Best Uses
– Mini burgers
– Mini hot dogs
– Party snacks
– Petite chicken sandwiches
– Dinner roll alternative
Hawaiian rolls make great dinner rolls thanks to their soft texture and sweet taste. Their large, flat shape also accommodates hearty sandwich fillings.
Slider buns are the perfect vessel for bite-sized burgers and dogs. Their small size and sturdy crumb support the weight of meat patties and saucy toppings. They also work well for appetizer-sized chicken, pork, or other sandwiches.
Appearance
Visually, Hawaiian rolls and slider buns look quite similar at a glance. They are both:
– Small, round pieces of bread
– Have a soft, pillowy appearance
– Feature a pale golden crust with a white interior
– Oval/oblong shape versus perfectly round
However, upon closer inspection you can spot a few subtle differences:
Hawaiian Rolls
– Larger size
– Flatter shape
– Deep amber crust color from more sugar
– Very soft and airy look
Slider Buns
– Smaller size
– Rounder, fuller shape
– Paler golden crust
– Denser visual texture
Side by side, the Hawaiian rolls will stand out for their large flat tops, dark golden crust, and super soft look. Slider buns will have a more compact rounder shape, lighter crust, and toothier texture.
Cost Comparison
Both Hawaiian rolls and slider buns are readily available at most grocery stores. Here is a cost comparison of buying them pre-made versus homemade:
| Type | Storebought Cost | Homemade Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Rolls | $3.49 – $4.99 per 12 count | $0.30 – $0.50 per roll |
| Slider Buns | $3.99 – $4.99 per 24 count | $0.20 – $0.40 per bun |
As you can see, there is a significant cost savings – around 85% – from baking your own Hawaiian rolls or slider buns instead of purchasing pre-made. And homemade allows you to control the ingredients and quality.
If buying storebought for convenience, Hawaiian rolls tend to cost a bit more per piece than slider buns. The premium price reflects their more buttery, sweet formula. But both offer an affordable way to enjoy these tasty little breads!
Nutrition Comparison
Here is a comparison of the nutrition facts for Hawaiian rolls versus slider buns:
| Nutrition Facts | Hawaiian Rolls | Slider Buns |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 131 cal per roll | 100 cal per bun |
| Fat | 4g | 2g |
| Carbs | 22g | 18g |
| Protein | 3g | 3g |
| Sodium | 148mg | 122mg |
As you can see, Hawaiian rolls contain more calories, fat, and carbs compared to slider buns. This reflects the Hawaiian rolls’ higher sugar and butter content. However, slider buns are no diet food either!
Both provide a similar amount of protein. Hawaiian rolls tend to be higher in sodium as well.
Overall, Hawaiian rolls are more of an indulgent, sweet treat while slider buns are a slightly more nutritious alternative. But when enjoyed in moderation, both can be part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
So are Hawaiian rolls and slider buns really the same thing? After closely comparing their ingredients, texture, taste, size, cost, nutrition, and best uses, the verdict is no. While they are both delicious, small white dinner rolls, some key differences set Hawaiian rolls and slider buns apart:
Hawaiian Rolls
– Higher in sugar and butter = sweeter taste and softer texture
– Larger, flatter shape works well for pulled pork sandwiches
– Perfect as dinner rolls or French toast base
– More calories, carbs, and fat than slider buns
Slider Buns
– Less sweet and more savory taste
– Smaller, rounder size ideal for mini burgers and sandwiches
– Sturdier crumb and chewier texture
– Lower in calories and carbs compared to Hawaiian rolls
So while you can substitute them for each other in a pinch, Hawaiian rolls and slider buns are uniquely designed for their intended uses. Hawaiian rolls are the sweet breakfast and dinner roll all-star. Slider buns are engineered for holding petite sandwiches and burgers. Both are delicious choices! Just be aware they are not exactly the same.