If you’ve ever craved that cozy, comforting cinnamon roll flavor without totally derailing your wellness goals, these Protein Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new best friend. They come together with just a few wholesome ingredients, pack a serious punch of protein, and are oh-so-soft, satisfying, and perfect for breakfast, snacking, or even dessert. Best of all, you won’t believe how easy these are to whip up—no yeast, no long rise times, just pure, rolled-up joy. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend bake or a high-protein snack to fuel your week, this recipe is a game changer.

Protein Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how the simplest staples come together to make something so special. Each ingredient in these Protein Cinnamon Rolls has a job—whether it’s creating the pillowy dough, boosting protein content, adding a caramel swirl, or delivering that dreamy glaze on top. Let’s peek at the all-star lineup:

Plain Greek yogurt: Adds protein, moisture, and a subtle tang, making the dough beautifully tender.
Self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour + baking powder + salt): The fluffy structure-builder for the rolls. If you don’t have self-rising flour, the DIY mix is just as tasty.
Vanilla or cinnamon protein powder: This secret ingredient seriously boosts the protein and enhances the sweet, bakery-fresh flavor.
Granulated sweetener of choice: Sweetens the dough just enough (choose your favorite sugar, stevia, or monk fruit blend).
Cinnamon: The showstopper spice that brings warmth and a swirl of comfort to every bite.
Unsalted butter, melted: Gives richness and helps the brown sugar and cinnamon meld perfectly into the swirls.
Brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Provides a caramelly swirl and that “classic cinnamon roll” vibe.
Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures your rolls slide right out of the baking dish with no sticking.

For the Frosting:
Plain Greek yogurt: The creamy, tangy, protein-packed base for our frosting.
Maple syrup or sweetener of choice: Naturally sweetens the glaze and adds that irresistible shine.
Vanilla extract: A tiny bit makes the whole thing taste extra special and bakery-worthy.

How to Make Protein Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s hot and ready. Lightly grease your baking dish with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper. This guarantees your Protein Cinnamon Rolls will slide out easily and keep their lovely spiral shape.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, self-rising flour (or the flour, baking powder, and salt combo if you’re making your own), protein powder, and granulated sweetener. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms. The mixture should be soft but not super sticky—if needed, add a sprinkle of flour. Gently knead it a few times on a floured surface to smooth everything out.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

With your hands or a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle about a quarter-inch thick. No need to stress over perfection—a rough rectangle is great, and the important part is keeping it even for easy rolling later on.

Step 4: Make & Spread the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, blend the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until it looks like luscious cinnamon caramel. Spread this mixture evenly over your dough rectangle, leaving a border around the edges (this prevents too much filling from spilling out as you roll).

Step 5: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll up your dough from the long side to create a neat log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss (my favorite hack) to slice the log into six equal pieces—each one a beautiful swirl of cinnamon joy!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Arrange your Protein Cinnamon Rolls in the prepared dish, spacing them just a little apart. Slide them into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and turned a gorgeous golden brown on top. The aroma is your cue that something magical is happening.

Step 7: Whip Up the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, stir together the Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or sweetener of choice), and vanilla extract in a small bowl. You want the frosting to be creamy and dreamy, ready to melt over those fresh-from-the-oven swirls.

Step 8: Frost & Serve

Let the rolls cool for a few minutes so the frosting doesn’t melt away completely, then spoon or drizzle your Greek yogurt glaze over the top. Grab a fork—or better yet, your hands—and dig in while they’re still warm.

How to Serve Protein Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

These rolls are delightful straight from the oven, but a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, a dusting of powdered sweetener, or a few chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) can take them to another level. For an added pop, try some fresh berries alongside your cinnamon rolls.

Side Dishes

Protein Cinnamon Rolls pair beautifully with a creamy latte, almond milk cappuccino, or even a refreshing green smoothie. Add a side of scrambled eggs or some sliced fruit for a bigger brunch spread that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, pile the warm rolls on a pretty platter and drizzle extra frosting right at the table for a dramatic touch. For a fun twist, cut them into minis and serve on a dessert board with yogurt, fruit, and nut butters. Kids also love helping to frost their own roll with toppings of choice!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Protein Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The yogurt-based frosting stays creamy, and the dough remains tender, so you can enjoy them again later.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these for meal prep or future cravings! Once the rolls are baked and fully cooled (without frosting), freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a sealed container or freezer bag. Add the frosting after you reheat, for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

To enjoy Protein Cinnamon Rolls warm, pop them in the microwave for 15 to 30 seconds or reheat in a low oven (300°F) for 5 to 8 minutes. Apply the frosting afterwards so it doesn’t dry out, and savor that gooey, fresh-baked magic all over again.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap the regular flour for your favorite gluten-free all-purpose blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten free. The texture remains surprisingly soft, and the flavor is still that classic cinnamon roll goodness.

What kind of protein powder works best?

Both whey and plant-based protein powders work nicely in this recipe. Choose vanilla or cinnamon flavor for extra warmth, but plain works too—just make sure it’s a brand you love the taste and texture of, since some can be chalky.

Can I prep the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Shape and slice the rolls, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Just bring them to room temperature while the oven preheats to ensure even baking, then pop them in as directed. Fresh rolls, even on busy mornings!

Do these taste “healthy” or like real cinnamon rolls?

Thanks to the protein powder and Greek yogurt, Protein Cinnamon Rolls are more nourishing, but they taste every bit as soft, gooey, and cinnamon-packed as classic rolls. Even picky eaters will be surprised at how close they come to the bakery version.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Definitely—this recipe is super flexible. Use any granulated or liquid sweetener you love, from coconut sugar to monk fruit or even honey. Just keep an eye on sweetness level to match your taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that delivers pure comfort with a protein boost, these Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a must-make. They’re easy, quick, and satisfy every cinnamon roll craving—without the wait or the guilt. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they vanish from your kitchen in minutes!

Protein Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 rolls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in these protein-packed cinnamon rolls that are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls. With the goodness of Greek yogurt and protein powder, these rolls make for a satisfying treat any time of the day.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup self-rising flour (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1½ teaspoons baking powder + ¼ teaspoon salt)
1 scoop vanilla or cinnamon protein powder
2 tablespoons granulated sweetener of choice
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
Nonstick cooking spray

Frosting:

¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Prepare dough: In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, protein powder, and granulated sweetener to form a soft dough. Knead briefly on a floured surface until smooth.
Roll out dough: Roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Make cinnamon mixture: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spread the cinnamon mixture over the dough, leaving a small border.
Form rolls: Carefully roll the dough into a log and slice into 6 equal rolls. Place rolls in the prepared dish.
Bake: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until golden.
Prepare frosting: While baking, mix the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract for the frosting.
Serve: Let rolls cool slightly, then top with the frosting before serving.