High Protein Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls are truly the ultimate weekend comfort food that many people look forward to enjoying. We all know they are typically full of carbs and sugar, but what if I told you that it's entirely possible to make them just as delicious while significantly increasing their health benefits for you? Perhaps now, these delightful rolls don’t have to be confined to just the weekends anymore. This innovative recipe takes a classic favorite and expertly transforms it into a high-protein, low-sugar version that you can feel good about indulging in any day of the week.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• ¾ cup warm milk (any kind, including plant-based)

• 2 ¼ teaspoon quick active yeast

• 2 eggs (1 full egg and 1 egg yolk)

• ¼ cup butter (vegan alternative works)

• 1 tablespoon white sugar (for yeast activation)

• ¾ teaspoon salt

• 3 ¼ cups bread flour (additional ½ cup as needed)

• 1 cup collagen (unflavored)

For the Filling:

• ¼ cup brown sugar alternative, like Swerve (adjust for desired sweetness)

• 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder

• ¼ cup butter

For the Frosting:

• ¾ cup powdered sugar alternative, like Swerve

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• ⅓ cup collagen (unflavored)

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)

• 3 tablespoons butter (softened, vegan alternative works)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Warm the milk slightly (about 110°F/43°C) and mix it with the yeast and 1 tablespoon of white sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, and salt.

3. Gradually add the yeast mixture and stir in the bread flour and collagen.

4. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it's too sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix the brown Swerve and cinnamon in a small bowl.

2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about ¼-inch thick.

3. Spread the softened butter over the dough and evenly sprinkle the cinnamon mixture on top.

4. Tightly roll the dough into a log and cut into 8 equal rolls.

5. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

3. Allow them to cool slightly while preparing the frosting.

Step 4: Make the Frosting & Serve

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the powdered Swerve, salt, vanilla, collagen, cream cheese, and butter until smooth and creamy.

2. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls.

3. Enjoy immediately while warm!

Nutrition:

Per roll (if making 8)

• 340 calories

• 21g protein

• 15g carbs

• 22g fat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low Sugar: Swapping out traditional sugar for Swerve reduces the overall sugar content without sacrificing sweetness.

• High Protein: Thanks to collagen, each cinnamon roll is packed with extra protein, making it a great post-workout treat or a satisfying snack.

• Customizable: Use plant-based ingredients for a dairy-free version, or adjust the sweetness to your preference.

For more delicious high-protein, low-sugar recipes, be sure to follow me on Instagram @KevEats and @KevTheDietitian. Stay tuned for more guilt-free indulgences!