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Healthy Cinnamon Roll Recipe


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3.9 from 85 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 10 cinnamon rolls

Description

This Healthy Cinnamon Roll Recipe offers a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls by using cottage cheese for added protein and a lighter texture. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup and flavored with cinnamon and brown sugar, these rolls are baked to golden perfection and topped with a simple glaze made from the same blended cottage cheese mixture. Perfect for a healthier breakfast treat or snack, these cinnamon rolls yield 10 servings and are simple to prepare.


Ingredients

For the Dough and Filling

  • 1 1/4 cup cottage cheese (whole milk, high-quality)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 Tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 Tablespoon coconut oil (melted, or butter)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2-3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Glaze

  • 3 Tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons blended cottage cheese mixture (reserved from above)


Instructions

  1. Blend Liquid Ingredients: Blend the cottage cheese, vanilla extract, and maple syrup together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  2. Set Aside 2 Tablespoons: Reserve 2 tablespoons of the blended cottage cheese mixture for the glaze later. Cover and refrigerate this portion.
  3. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round 8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
  4. Mix Dough Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Add the remaining blended cottage cheese mixture and stir just until combined, forming a dough.
  5. Form Dough: Gather the dough into a ball, ensuring it is evenly mixed but not overworked.
  6. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle measuring approximately 9×13 inches.
  7. Brush Oil Over Dough: Evenly brush the melted coconut oil or butter over the surface of the rolled-out dough to add flavor and help the filling stick.
  8. Sprinkle Sugar & Cinnamon: Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the oiled dough, distributing the mixture to cover all areas.
  9. Roll & Slice Dough: Starting at one end, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 10 equal cinnamon rolls.
  10. Add to Pan: Arrange the cinnamon rolls cut side up in the prepared baking pan, fitting them snugly but without overcrowding.
  11. Bake: Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the rolls are cooked through.
  12. Let Cool: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan to set up slightly before glazing.
  13. Add Glaze: Whisk the reserved blended cottage cheese mixture with the powdered sugar until smooth to form the glaze. Spread this glaze generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use whole milk cottage cheese for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overmix the dough to keep the cinnamon rolls tender.
  • If you prefer a sweeter glaze, adjust the powdered sugar quantity to taste.
  • Ensure the dough is rolled evenly to produce cinnamon rolls of uniform size.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut yogurt for cottage cheese and use vegan butter or coconut oil.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American