Description
These Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious twist on the classic treat, incorporating protein powder for an added nutritional boost. Soft, fluffy, and packed with warm cinnamon and brown sugar, these rolls are perfect for a satisfying breakfast or snack. The creamy protein frosting made with cream cheese and vanilla protein powder adds a rich and delightful finish.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup protein powder (preferably unflavored or vanilla, see notes)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar (see notes for alternatives)
- 3/4 cup milk (non-fat milk used)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast (one packet)
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 3 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 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 flour, protein powder, salt, and sugar until well combined.
- Prepare Wet Mixture. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk and butter, heating for 30-40 seconds until the butter softens. Whisk thoroughly to combine. Stir in the yeast until fully dissolved.
- Combine Ingredients. Add the wet ingredients and the egg to the dry mix, mixing well to form a dough.
- Knead the Dough. Lightly flour a kitchen surface and knead the dough gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Filling. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and cinnamon to make the filling mixture.
- Roll Out Dough. Place the dough back on the floured surface and roll it into a 15 x 6-inch rectangle.
- Add Filling and Roll. Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top. Carefully roll the dough into a log and slice into 12 even pieces.
- Proof the Rolls. Arrange the rolls in a greased cake pan or baking dish. Cover with a dish towel and set in a warm spot to double in size, approximately 45 minutes.
- Preheat Oven. Heat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake Rolls. Bake the risen cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown.
- Make Protein Frosting. While the rolls bake, combine the vanilla protein powder, softened cream cheese, and milk. Whisk until thick and fluffy.
- Cool and Frost. Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly after baking before generously spreading the protein frosting on top.
Notes
- The protein powder in the dough should be unflavored or vanilla to avoid overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
- Sugar can be adjusted or substituted with alternative sweeteners as desired, but affects the dough’s texture and taste.
- Non-fat milk was used for a lighter option, but whole milk or milk alternatives can also be used.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to achieve a smooth frosting texture.
- For best results, proof the rolls in a warm, draft-free area.
- Protein frostings may vary in sweetness based on protein powder used; adjust milk quantity to reach desired consistency.
