There’s something truly comforting about warm, freshly baked Protein Cinnamon Rolls. These delightful rolls not only offer a healthier twist but are also incredibly easy to make. In my kitchen trials, I discovered the perfect balance of soft fluffiness and a hint of spice in every bite. As I tested various recipes, I learned how the combination of Greek yogurt and protein powder transforms these rolls into a nutritious delight. They make a perfect breakfast or snack, especially paired with my Simple Avocado Toast.
About Protein Cinnamon Rolls
Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful addition to any breakfast table. With their rich, fluffy texture and sweet aroma, they make mornings feel special even on a busy day. I tested this recipe multiple times, tweaking the ingredients to find just the right consistency and taste. These rolls are a hit with my family and the perfect way to fuel your day, making them budget-friendly and family-approved.
- Quick preparation: ready in under 90 minutes, it’s a great weekend treat!
- Nutritious: healthier than traditional cinnamon rolls, packed with protein.
- A crowd-pleaser: perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
- Versatile: customize with nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Greek Yogurt: Keeps the rolls moist; substitute with a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
- Self-Rising Flour: Provides structure and lift; if unavailable, combine all-purpose flour with baking powder.
- Plant-Based Protein Powder: Enhances protein content; swap with whey protein if preferred.
- Coconut Sugar: Adds a hint of caramel flavor; brown sugar can be used as an alternative.
How to Make Protein Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8×8 baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
- Combine the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, and protein powder in a mixing bowl, stirring until the dough is shaggy and somewhat holds together.
- Knead the dough by hand until smooth; if it feels sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour for ease.
- Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and allow it to rest on the counter for 30 minutes.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- Note: When kneading, ensure your hands are lightly floured to prevent sticking and keep the dough manageable.
- A common issue is overly sticky dough; if this occurs, slowly incorporate flour little by little until you achieve desired texture.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or raisins for a festive twist, especially around the holidays.
- You can easily double the recipe if you’re entertaining a larger crowd!
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store these Protein Cinnamon Rolls in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. From my testing, a slightly chilled roll with a drizzle of glaze adds an unexpected refreshing note!
What to Serve With Protein Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls pair wonderfully with a cup of morning coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice. For a fun twist, serve them alongside my Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use Greek yogurt substitutes? Yes, non-dairy yogurts like coconut or almond yogurt work well.
- What happens if my rolls don’t rise enough? Ensure your ingredients are fresh, especially the protein powder and flour.
- How do I make these gluten-free? Substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Can these rolls be made ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate before baking, then follow baking instructions when ready.
- What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Protein Cinnamon Rolls have become a family favorite in my household, with their warm, inviting flavors making mornings sweeter. I love serving them fresh out of the oven, lightly glazed and still warm. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences—it’s wonderful to connect over food!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Apple Cinnamon Rolls – why it complements this
- Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins – connection via flavor/technique
- Cinnamon Roll French Toast – seasonal pairing
Protein Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Dough
- 1.5 cups full fat Greek yogurt I used Wallaby
- 1.5 cups self rising flour plus more as needed
- 29 g plant-based vanilla protein powder I used Truvani
Filling
- 2 Tablespoons butter melted
- 2 Tablespoons coconut sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Glaze
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 teaspoons almond milk
- 2 Tablespoons full fat Greek yogurt
Instructions
Prepare Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or line an 8×8 square baking dish with parchment paper.
Make Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour and protein powder. Mix until the dough becomes shaggy and starts to come together.
- Knead the dough with your hands until smooth and no longer sticky, forming it into a ball. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Shape Rolls
- Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes on the counter.
- Flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 10 x 12 inches, approximately ¼ inch thick.
- Brush the melted butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle the dough with sugar and cinnamon, ensuring an even layer.
- Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 9 equal pieces, about 1.5 inches wide each.
Bake Rolls
- Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 30-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a roll comes out clean.
Prepare Glaze
- While the rolls are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, and almond milk in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the almond milk for your desired consistency.
- Let the cinnamon rolls cool for 5-10 minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!