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

Published February 22, 2024
4 minute read

Written By: Amanda Oliver

Amanda Oliver has more than a decade of experience in commerce and media, specifically in product testing and service journalism in the lifestyle, health and wellness, and outdoor space. Amanda is currently the Executive Editor of Commerce at Field & Stream. She is also an RYT-200 yoga teacher and NASM CPT personal trainer.

The high-protein cinnamon roll recipe we're drooling over | MyFitnessPal
Published February 22, 2024
4 minute read
In This Article

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.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kelton (@keltonmaloy)

High-Protein Cinnamon Roll

Serves: 12 | Serving Size: 1 Cinnamon Roll

Ingredients

  • 2 cups self-rising flour
  • 1 cup vanilla protein shake or greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans)

For the glaze (optional):

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons almond milk or vanilla protein shake
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour with the protein shake or greek yogurt. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Brush the melted coconut oil or butter evenly over the surface of the dough.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the coconut sugar (or brown sugar) and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough.
  6. If using chopped nuts, sprinkle them over the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  7. Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log.
  8. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls.
  9. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
  10. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
  11. While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, vanilla protein shake (or any milk), and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
  12. Once the rolls are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving: Calories: 165; Total Fat: 3.9g; Total Carbohydrates: 27.6g; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugar: 11.2g; Protein: 5g

About the Authors

Meet the people behind the post

Written By: Amanda Oliver

Amanda Oliver has more than a decade of experience in commerce and media, specifically in product testing and service journalism in the lifestyle, health and wellness, and outdoor space. Amanda is currently the Executive Editor of Commerce at Field & Stream. She is also an RYT-200 yoga teacher and NASM CPT personal trainer.

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