Protein Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting about warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, but what if you could give them a nutritious twist? That’s exactly what these Protein Cinnamon Rolls deliver! Soft, fluffy rolls with a cinnamon-sugar center are perfectly balanced with the added boost of protein powder, making them a guilt-free indulgence packed with flavor and texture. Whether you need a cozy breakfast treat or a smart snack that feels like dessert, these Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a game-changer that’ll have you smiling with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are surprisingly simple yet thoughtfully chosen to bring together the perfect balance of flavor, protein, and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, from creating soft dough to delivering that classic cinnamon sweetness, all while packing in extra nutrition.

• 2 cups all purpose flour: The foundational base providing structure and softness to your rolls.
• 1/3 cup flax meal (optional): Adds healthy fats and a subtle nuttiness, plus extra fiber.
• 3/4 cup protein vanilla powder: Infuses the dough with protein and a hint of vanilla sweetness for a subtle twist.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that enhances flavor and helps with browning.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the other flavors.
• 3/4 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for a tender crumb.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed: Creates a soft, rich dough and tender texture.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet): The magic that helps these rolls rise beautifully.
• 1 large egg, whisked, room temperature: Gives structure and richness to the dough.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, very soft (for filling): Ensures a luscious, melty cinnamon filling.
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (for filling): Deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for filling): The star spice that defines the classic flavor.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature (for frosting): Adds creamy tang and indulgence to the topping.
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (for frosting): Boosts frosting with protein and subtle vanilla flavor.
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for frosting): Ensures smooth sweetness and perfect icing texture.
• 1/4 cup milk (for frosting): Helps achieve that perfect drizzle-able consistency.

How to Make Protein Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base

Start by whisking together your flour, protein powder, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mixture will form the body of your dough. Meanwhile, warm the milk with butter until just melted and warm—this creates the perfect environment for the yeast to bloom without risking killing it with heat. Stir in your instant yeast until it dissolves completely, then pour this wet mixture over your dry ingredients.

Step 2: Form and Knead the Dough

Add in the whisked egg and stir everything until a shaggy dough forms. It will be sticky and a little rough, which is exactly right at this stage. Transfer it onto a generously floured surface and knead for about 3-4 minutes until smooth and elastic. Don’t hesitate to add a bit extra flour if it feels too tacky. Then place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise for 15 minutes. This slight puff is important—it’s the first step toward those airy Protein Cinnamon Rolls!

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Roll your rested dough into a neat 9×14-inch rectangle. Spread the very soft butter generously but leave a little border around the edges for clean rolling. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the butter, gently patting it down with your hands to create a cohesive layer—this will be the irresistible sweet center of your rolls.

Step 4: Shape and Slice the Rolls

Starting at the long edge, roll the dough into a log, gently pressing at each end to compact it slightly, which helps maintain a tight spiral. Slice the log into 10 to 12 even pieces—using unflavored dental floss works wonders for clean cuts without squashing your dough. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover with a towel, and allow to rise in a warm spot for an hour to an hour and a half, until nearly doubled in size.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until their tops turn a beautiful light golden brown and the internal temperature reaches about 190-200°F. This baking time ensures a light, tender interior with a slight crisp on the edges. Let them cool just a bit before frosting to preserve that creamy topping texture.

Step 6: Whip Up the Protein Frosting

Combine the cream cheese, vanilla protein powder, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl. Start mashing with a fork, then whisk until creamy and smooth. This frosting adds a wonderful tang alongside the subtle sweetness and gives the Protein Cinnamon Rolls that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth finish.

How to Serve Protein Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch that contrasts brilliantly with the soft rolls. You might also dust a tiny bit of cinnamon or drizzle a little extra melted butter for that cozy, warm feeling. Fresh fruit on the side, such as sliced strawberries or blueberries, can lift the overall presentation and add a refreshing bite.

Side Dishes

Protein Cinnamon Rolls are rich and satisfying on their own, but pairing them with a fresh cup of coffee, chai latte, or a glass of cold milk takes the experience up a notch. For a meal, serve alongside a fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait to balance the indulgence with some brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider transforming these into individual serving bites—cut smaller rolls and stack them on a platter with a drizzle of frosting between layers. Or, toast leftover slices lightly in a pan and serve warmed with extra cream cheese spread for an irresistible twist on cinnamon roll toast. Wrap them individually in parchment for grab-and-go morning treats or pack them in a lunchbox for a delightful surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cool, place any leftover Protein Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container. They should stay fresh and soft at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, making them perfect for enjoying across several breakfasts or snacks. Refrigeration is optional but can extend freshness up to a week.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, these rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months without losing quality. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave for a quick treat.

Reheating

To revive the fresh-baked experience, heat your Protein Cinnamon Rolls in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave for 20-30 seconds but be cautious not to overdo it and dry out the rolls. Adding a touch of extra frosting after reheating is a delightful way to refresh their gooey, creamy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein powder?

Absolutely! While vanilla protein powder works best for the subtle sweetness, you can swap in your favorite flavor as long as it’s unflavored, vanilla, or mildly sweetened to maintain balance. Avoid anything too overpowering or savory.

Is flax meal necessary in the recipe?

The flax meal is optional and can be omitted if you don’t have it on hand. It adds a little extra fiber and a hint of nuttiness but won’t drastically change the texture or flavor, so feel free to skip it.

Can I prepare the rolls overnight?

Yes, you can let the shaped rolls rise in the fridge overnight. Just cover them well with plastic wrap and remove about an hour before baking to come to room temperature. This slow rise often enhances the flavor and makes mornings easier.

Are these Protein Cinnamon Rolls suitable for beginners?

Definitely! The recipe is straightforward, and you don’t need advanced baking skills. The dough is forgiving, and the steps are broken down so you feel confident every step of the way.

What texture can I expect from these rolls?

Expect soft, pillowy rolls with a slight chew from the protein powder. The cinnamon sugar filling is gooey but not runny, and the protein cream cheese frosting adds that perfectly creamy finish that melts in your mouth.

Final Thoughts

If you love cinnamon rolls and want to enjoy them without the usual sugar crash, these Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a fantastic find. Combining familiar flavors with a protein boost makes them a smart indulgence that satisfies cravings and supports your nutrition goals. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite breakfast or snack treat that friends and family will beg you to make again and again.

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