Protein Cinnamon Rolls
User Reviews
4.9
Protein Cinnamon Rolls
Description
This recipe enhances classic cinnamon rolls by adding vanilla protein powder to the dough, which also contains all-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, warm liquid, and melted butter. Proper water temperature is crucial to activate the yeast without killing it. The dough is kneaded until slightly sticky, then allowed to rise until it doubles in size, creating a soft texture. The rolls are shaped and baked to a golden finish, delivering a tender crumb and a balanced cinnamon flavor.
The cream cheese frosting mixes light cream cheese with softened butter, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and powdered sugar, adding a smooth, rich coating that complements the rolls’ flavor and texture. These rolls are best cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting off.
They should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain moisture and softness, and excessive rising time should be avoided to prevent dense rolls.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 210g
- 1/2 cup protein powder 60g, vanilla
- 1/2 cup water 120-130°F, warm, or milk, 150g
- 3 Tbsp sugar divided
- 1 (0.25-oz.) yeast fast-acting
- 3 Tbsp butter melted & divided, unsalted
- 1 Tbsp cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 2 oz. cream cheese light
- 2 Tbsp butter softened, unsalted
- 2-3 tsp milk start with 2 tsp and add more as needed
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Add the warm water (or milk) to a medium mixing bowl. You are going for a bath water temperature – around 120℉ Getting the right temperature is important because it will effect the rising capability of the yeast.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon sugar and the yeast and whisk until dissolved. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the all-purpose flour, stirring it in as you go. Then add in one tablespoon melted butter and the protein powder and mix together until combined. Add more flour if needed until dough is completely formed. You’ll want it just slightly sticky.
- Sprinkle extra flour on a surface and knead the dough for 5 minutes.
- Place ball into separate greased bowl and cover with towel. Let sit in a warm place for 10-20 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size. (TIP: you can always microwave a bowl of water until boiling and leave in microwave with bowl of dough to create an enclosed space for the dough to rise.)
- After the dough has risen some, briefly knead the dough again then roll out into a 14×8 inch large rectangle using a rolling pin.
- Brush the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter onto the dough. Add the cinnamon and sugar. You will want to add more than you think is necessary as a lot of it will absorb in the dough.
- Roll the dough up hot-dog style and gently press the end of the dough into the log to seal. Using a serrated knife, cut dough every 1.5 inches or so. Place in a greased 9-inch round or square pan.
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Let dough rise some more in the pan while oven gets warm.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes. Check frequently towards the end because we want to make sure we don't over bake them (this is especially important with recipes that have protein powder). The rolls will still bake in the hot pan once you remove them from the oven.
- While rolls are baking, cream the cream cheese, butter, vanilla and salt together using a hand mixer. Add in the powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
- Spread frosting over rolls and enjoy warm!
Notes
- Maintain the liquid temperature between 120-130°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- Slightly sticky dough indicates proper hydration; add flour gradually to form a soft ball.
- Knead dough for 5 minutes to develop gluten and structure.
- Avoid letting the dough rise too long, as it can cause dense cinnamon rolls.
- Store finished rolls in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them soft and prevent hardening.
- Use gluten-free flour alternatives if needed, like Bob's Red Mill 1:1 flour.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 272 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1roll with frosting | |
| Calories | 272kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 37.2g | 12% |
| Protein | 10.1g | 20% |
| Fat | 9.2g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 5.4g | 27% |
| Cholesterol | 35.2mg | 12% |
| Fiber | 0.8g | 3% |
| Sugar | 12.9g | 26% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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