Protein Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Introduction

These protein cinnamon rolls are a delicious twist on a classic treat, combining warm spices with a boost of protein for a satisfying and nourishing indulgence. Soft, fluffy, and topped with a creamy frosting, they’re perfect for breakfast or dessert. With thoughtful ingredients and easy steps, you’ll enjoy bakery-quality rolls at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75 g) protein powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar or substitute
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk
• 3 tablespoons (42 g) butter, softened
• 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
• 1 large egg
• Filling:
• 3 tablespoons (42 g) butter
• 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon (60 g) brown sugar or substitute
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• Frosting:
• 2/3 cup (65 g) vanilla protein powder (sweetened)
• 6 ounces (170 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, protein powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
2. Step 2: In a separate bowl, warm the milk and softened butter in the microwave until just softened, then whisk in the yeast until dissolved.
3. Step 3: Add the yeast mixture and the egg to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Step 4: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for 2–3 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
6. Step 6: Roll the dough into a 15 x 6-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
7. Step 7: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log, then slice into 12 equal pieces.
8. Step 8: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise for 45 minutes until puffed.
9. Step 9: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the rolls for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Step 10: While the rolls bake, whisk together the vanilla protein powder, softened cream cheese, and milk until smooth to make the frosting.
11. Step 11: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before spreading the frosting generously on top. Serve warm for best enjoyment.

Tips & Variations

• Use casein, pea, or brown rice protein powder to keep rolls soft and moist; avoid whey protein to prevent dryness.
• Swap sugar for allulose or a brown sugar substitute to reduce calories without losing flavor.
• Add chopped nuts, raisins, or diced apples to the filling for extra texture and variety.
• For a lighter frosting, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt mixed with protein powder and a touch of vanilla extract.
• Don’t rush the dough rising time; allowing full 45 minutes creates air pockets for fluffy rolls.

Storage

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, cool rolls completely and wrap them tightly before placing in the freezer; they can keep for up to 6 months. Reheat refrigerated or frozen rolls in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use any type of protein powder for these cinnamon rolls?

It’s best to use casein, pea, or brown rice protein powders because they maintain moisture and texture in baking. Whey protein tends to dry out dough, which can make the rolls tough.

Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly and bake them fresh when ready.

Protein Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 105 reviews

These Protein Cinnamon Rolls offer a delicious and healthier twist on the classic treat by incorporating protein powder into the dough and frosting, delivering fluffy, soft rolls with a sweet cinnamon filling and protein-rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect as a high-protein breakfast or dessert, they balance sweetness and texture while supporting your nutritional goals.

• Author: lea
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough:

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (75 g) protein powder (casein, pea, or brown rice recommended)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (50 g) sugar or substitute (e.g., allulose)
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk, warmed
• 3 tablespoons (42 g) butter, softened
• 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast (active dry yeast)
• 1 large egg

Filling:

• 3 tablespoons (42 g) butter, softened
• 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon (60 g) brown sugar or substitute
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Frosting:

• 2/3 cup (65 g) vanilla protein powder (sweetened)
• 6 ounces (170 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk

Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, protein powder, salt, and sugar until well combined to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
2. Activate Yeast: Warm the milk and butter in the microwave until the butter is softened but the mixture is not too hot. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for a few minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Add the wet milk and yeast mixture along with the egg to the dry ingredients. Mix everything thoroughly to form a dough.
4. Knead and Rest Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth and slightly elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rest for 5 minutes to begin rising.
5. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the cinnamon filling mixture.
6. Shape Rolls: Roll the dough out into a 15 by 6-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon butter mixture evenly over the dough. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
7. Rise Before Baking: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise in a warm place for 45 minutes until puffy and doubled in size.
8. Bake Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
9. Prepare Frosting: While the rolls bake, whisk together the vanilla protein powder, softened cream cheese, and milk until smooth and creamy to create the protein-rich frosting.
10. Frost and Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly after baking, then spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls. Serve warm for the best taste and texture.

Notes

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered.
• Freeze cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Defrost before reheating.
• For make-ahead convenience, shape rolls and store covered in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking.
• Use casein, pea, or brown rice protein powder for best texture and moisture retention in baking.
• Substitute brown sugar and sugar with allulose or other low-calorie sweeteners to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
• You can swap cream cheese frosting for Greek yogurt mixed with protein powder for a lighter topping.

Keywords: Protein cinnamon rolls, healthy cinnamon rolls, high protein dessert, protein baking, cinnamon roll recipe, protein powder baking