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
- Blend Liquid Ingredients: Blend the cottage cheese, vanilla extract, and maple syrup together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Set Aside 2 Tablespoons: Reserve 2 tablespoons of the blended cottage cheese mixture for the glaze later. Cover and refrigerate this portion.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round 8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- 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.
- Form Dough: Gather the dough into a ball, ensuring it is evenly mixed but not overworked.
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a 1/4-inch thick rectangle measuring approximately 9×13 inches.
- 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.
- Sprinkle Sugar & Cinnamon: Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon evenly over the oiled dough, distributing the mixture to cover all areas.
- 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.
- Add to Pan: Arrange the cinnamon rolls cut side up in the prepared baking pan, fitting them snugly but without overcrowding.
- 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.
- Let Cool: Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan to set up slightly before glazing.
- 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