Protein Cinnamon Rolls: Delicious and Nutritious
Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a delicious, protein-packed treat that’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout, or a sweet snack, then these Protein Cinnamon Rolls are exactly what you need. With their soft, fluffy texture and just the right amount of cinnamon sugar, these rolls are both indulgent and nourishing. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Each roll is packed with protein, making it perfect for a muscle-building breakfast or snack.
- The cinnamon flavor is perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness.
- These rolls are made with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
- Quick and easy to prepare, they are ideal for busy mornings.
- They taste absolutely heavenly straight out of the oven.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts or raisins
Directions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the melted butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour and protein powder. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
- After the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface.
- Brush the melted coconut oil over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Add nuts or raisins if using.
Roll and Bake
- Carefully roll the dough into a log starting from a long side. Cut into 12 even pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure your yeast is fresh by checking the expiration date. Learn more about yeast freshness.
- Whole wheat flour can be substituted with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
- For a vegan version, substitute the milk with almond milk and use a flax egg.
Variations
- Vegan Protein Cinnamon Rolls: Use almond milk and a flax egg in place of regular milk and egg.
- Gluten-Free Protein Cinnamon Rolls: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Chocolate Protein Cinnamon Rolls: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Oven
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave before serving.
Suggested Pairings/Serving Recommendations
Enjoy these Protein Cinnamon Rolls with a cup of hot coffee or tea. They also pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a protein-rich smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
Pro Tips
- Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast effectively. Learn more about the correct yeast activation temperature.
- For extra fluffiness, let the rolls rise until visibly puffy before baking.
- To prevent over-browning, cover the rolls with foil halfway through the baking process.
FAQ
- Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate overnight before baking the next morning.
- Can I use a different protein powder flavor? Absolutely, chocolate or cinnamon-flavored protein powders work well too.
- How do I know when the rolls are done? The rolls should be golden brown and firm to the touch. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) confirms doneness.
