Description
These Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic treat, packed with protein powder to boost your intake while satisfying your sweet tooth. Soft, fluffy, and filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, they are topped with a creamy protein frosting for an indulgent yet nutritious breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup protein powder (see notes)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar (see notes)
- 3/4 cup milk (non-fat recommended)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 3 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon brown sugar (see notes)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Protein Frosting
- 2/3 cup vanilla protein powder (must be sweetened)
- 6 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, protein powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
- Activate Yeast: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the milk and butter for 30-40 seconds, just until butter softens. Whisk to incorporate, then add the yeast and mix well to activate.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the yeast mixture and the egg into the dry ingredients and mix together to form a dough.
- Knead Dough: Lightly flour a clean kitchen surface and transfer the dough onto it. Knead gently for 2-3 minutes until the dough becomes smooth. Place it in a greased bowl and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Filling: Whisk the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl.
- Roll Out Dough: Place the rested dough back on the floured surface and roll it into a 15 x 6-inch rectangle.
- Apply Filling and Roll: Spread the softened butter over the dough, keeping about a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log, then slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Proof Rolls: Arrange the rolls in a greased cake pan or baking dish. Cover with a dish towel and leave in a warm place until they double in size, about 45 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 180°C (350°F) while the rolls rise.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
- Make Frosting: While baking, whisk together the vanilla protein powder, softened cream cheese, and milk until the mixture is thick and fluffy.
- Cool and Frost: Let the cinnamon rolls cool for a few minutes after baking, then spread the protein frosting generously over the top before serving.
Notes
- Use your choice of protein powder, preferably unflavored or vanilla; sweetened is recommended for the frosting.
- Sugar quantities can be adjusted to taste or replaced with alternatives like coconut sugar.
- Non-fat milk is used here to keep the recipe lighter, but whole milk can be used for richer flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth frosting consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
