These Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment. The golden, soft rolls are infused with a delightful cinnamon-sweet filling and topped with a protein-rich glaze that adds a creamy finish.
Whether you’re enjoying them post-workout or as a breakfast treat, these rolls satisfy cravings while supporting your fitness goals. The best part? They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver a delicious, high-protein twist on a classic favorite!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 1/2 cups oat flour
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1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or unflavored)
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
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1/4 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
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2 tablespoons maple syrup
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup stevia (or sweetener of choice)
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1 egg
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1 tablespoon coconut oil (for greasing)
Filling Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon coconut oil (melted)
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 tablespoon maple syrup
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2 tablespoons coconut sugar
Icing Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons protein powder (vanilla)
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2 tablespoons almond milk
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1 tablespoon maple syrup
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, protein powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
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Add applesauce, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, stevia, and the egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together.
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Roll out the dough on a piece of parchment paper, forming a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
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Brush melted coconut oil on the dough. In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon, coconut sugar, and maple syrup. Sprinkle evenly over the dough.
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Carefully roll up the dough into a log shape and slice it into 8 equal portions.
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Arrange the rolls in the prepared baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
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While the rolls bake, prepare the icing by whisking together protein powder, almond milk, and maple syrup until smooth.
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Once the rolls are done baking, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls and serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 170 kcal | Servings: 8 rolls
Protein Cinnamon Rolls: A Delicious and Nutritious Twist on a Classic Favorite
Protein Cinnamon Rolls are a game-changer for anyone who loves indulging in a sweet, comforting treat without compromising on their nutritional goals. These protein-packed rolls offer the rich, warm flavors of a traditional cinnamon roll, but with a healthy boost that supports your fitness journey. Whether you’re craving a post-workout snack or a wholesome breakfast, this recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while fueling your body with the nutrients it needs.
Why Choose Protein Cinnamon Rolls?
Cinnamon rolls have been a beloved dessert or breakfast for decades, known for their sweet, sticky filling and soft, doughy texture. However, the traditional version is often high in sugar, refined carbs, and fat, making it a treat that can quickly derail your health and fitness goals. This protein cinnamon roll recipe offers a healthier alternative, providing all the deliciousness of a cinnamon roll but with the added benefits of protein and healthier ingredients.
The primary advantage of these rolls lies in their protein content. Protein is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall bodily functions. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, boosts metabolism, and promotes satiety, making it a key nutrient for anyone following a fitness-focused diet. By incorporating protein powder into the dough, these cinnamon rolls become not only a delicious indulgence but also a nourishing option that supports your active lifestyle.
The Nutritional Benefits of Protein Cinnamon Rolls
Protein is an essential macronutrient that helps to build and repair muscles, especially after workouts. Consuming an adequate amount of protein can promote muscle recovery, reduce hunger, and boost metabolism, making it a key part of any fitness diet. By adding protein powder to the dough, these cinnamon rolls offer a substantial protein boost with each serving.
In addition to the protein, these rolls contain other beneficial ingredients like oat flour and almond milk, both of which are healthier alternatives to traditional refined flour and dairy. Oat flour is a whole grain that provides fiber, which helps regulate digestion and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Almond milk, when used instead of regular milk, offers a dairy-free and low-calorie alternative that also contains healthy fats, helping to support overall health.
Another great benefit of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the sweetness by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup and stevia, making it suitable for various dietary preferences, including those who prefer to avoid refined sugars. This recipe also contains no gluten, making it a great option for those who follow gluten-free or wheat-free diets.
How to Enjoy Protein Cinnamon Rolls
These protein cinnamon rolls can be enjoyed in various ways. For a satisfying breakfast, pair them with a cup of coffee or a smoothie for an extra protein boost. They’re also perfect for meal prep, making them an easy grab-and-go snack for those busy mornings when you don’t have time to prepare a full meal.
If you’re looking for a post-workout treat, these rolls are a great option to help with muscle recovery. The combination of protein, carbs, and healthy fats will replenish your energy stores and aid in muscle repair, helping you recover faster and more efficiently after a tough workout. The addition of cinnamon provides not only flavor but also antioxidants, making these rolls a wholesome option that supports your overall health.
For a more indulgent treat, drizzle the rolls with a protein-packed glaze, which adds a creamy, sweet finish without the sugar overload. You can also experiment with adding other fillings, such as chopped nuts or dried fruits, for an extra texture and flavor boost.
Customization Tips
One of the best things about this protein cinnamon roll recipe is that it’s highly customizable. You can easily adapt the dough and filling to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
For a richer flavor, you can substitute coconut oil for the melted butter in the dough. Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical taste and is a great source of healthy fats. If you’re following a dairy-free or vegan diet, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg or another egg substitute, making these rolls completely plant-based.
To make the rolls even more decadent, try adding some dark chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet and savory twist. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and can provide a boost of energy, making it a great addition to your protein cinnamon rolls.
You can also experiment with different protein powders to create a unique flavor. Vanilla protein powder is the most common choice for cinnamon rolls, but you could also try chocolate or even unflavored protein powder for a more neutral base.
The Perfect Pairing: Protein Cinnamon Rolls and Coffee
A warm cup of coffee is the perfect complement to these protein cinnamon rolls. The rich, slightly bitter taste of coffee balances the sweetness of the rolls, creating an enjoyable contrast in flavors. Whether you prefer your coffee black, with a splash of almond milk, or as a latte, the combination of protein cinnamon rolls and coffee will satisfy your cravings and fuel your morning.
If you’re looking for a more decadent pairing, try a mocha latte, which combines the bold flavors of coffee and chocolate. The creamy texture of the latte pairs beautifully with the soft, protein-rich cinnamon rolls, creating a truly indulgent yet nutritious breakfast.
Protein Cinnamon Rolls for Special Occasions
These protein cinnamon rolls are not just for everyday breakfasts or snacks; they’re also a great option for special occasions. If you have guests over or are preparing for a brunch gathering, these rolls can be a healthier alternative to traditional pastries while still impressing your guests with their delicious flavor and presentation.
Consider serving them alongside a fruit platter or a fresh salad to round out the meal. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, paired with fresh fruits or greens, makes for a balanced and satisfying brunch spread.
Conclusion
Protein cinnamon rolls are a delicious, nutritious, and versatile twist on a classic favorite. By using wholesome ingredients like oat flour, protein powder, and natural sweeteners, these rolls offer the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout snack, a healthy breakfast option, or a special treat to share with friends, these protein-packed rolls are the perfect solution.
Not only do they satisfy your sweet cravings, but they also provide the necessary protein to support muscle recovery and overall health. The ability to customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences makes it a go-to option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier version of a beloved treat. So why not make protein cinnamon rolls a regular part of your meal plan? They’re simple to make, delicious, and will leave you feeling satisfied and fueled for whatever your day brings.
By switching up traditional recipes and adding protein to the mix, you can enjoy all the flavors of your favorite treats while nourishing your body with the nutrients it needs. These protein cinnamon rolls are a great example of how you can satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing your health goals. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or simply someone who loves tasty, wholesome food, these protein-packed rolls are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.