The High-Protein Cinnamon Roll Recipe We’re Drooling Over

There’s nothing quite like digging into an ooey-gooey cinnamon roll fresh out of the oven, smothered in glistening frosting on a Saturday morning. But between the high fat, sugar, and calorie content, many cinnamon buns—whether homemade or store-bought—are more like a dessert than a breakfast food.

While it’s more than okay to indulge in the cinnamon roll of your dreams every now and then, it’s also okay to want a healthier yet equally tasty way to satisfy your craving (balance!). And for that, we bring you this high-protein (and healthy!) cinnamon roll recipe.

MyFitnessPal partnered with foodie and content creator Kelton Maloy, who developed a recipe that uses more nutritious ingredients, like Greek yogurt and coconut oil. Just as importantly, it takes barely any time to throw together, making it a more convenient and practical alternative to the homemade cinnamon rolls that take hours of prep work.

“If you’re not feeling like baking or don’t have the time, I’ve got you,” he wrote on his Instagram post. “A few of these and I’m already on track to hit my protein goals.” Below is Kelton’s mouthwatering recipe, along with exactly what makes these cinnamon rolls a protein-packed breakfast choice.

Why are high-protein cinnamon rolls better for you?

Kelton’s cinnamon rolls call for your choice of either Greek yogurt or a vanilla protein shake—both of which are high in protein. But what’s so great about the thing so many health and fitness influencers wax on about? Well, for starters, protein is a necessary macronutrient for your body. But more than that, it has so many health benefits. Consuming adequate protein can help build more muscle (and maintain your current muscle mass), strengthen your bones, and regulate your appetite by keeping you full for longer.

Other healthy ingredient swaps

Protein isn’t the only thing that makes these cinnamon rolls a more nourishing option than the processed pre-made stuff you get out of a can. The recipe gives you the option of swapping in healthier ingredients, like coconut oil for butter. Coconut oil is a good source of healthy saturated fat, which may reduce the risk of heart disease, along with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. You can also nix the brown sugar and instead use coconut sugar, which is slightly more nutrient-dense with a lower glycemic index for more stable blood sugar.

For an extra helping of healthy fats on top of the coconut oil, mix chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) into the filling. And for those who are dairy-free, you can use almond milk to whip up your glaze.

 

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