Looking for a healthy cinnamon roll recipe? Check out this simple and delicious option that’s perfect for a guilt-free treat!
A healthy cinnamon roll recipe can satisfy your cravings for something sweet and comforting while also providing some nutritional benefits. By swapping a few traditional ingredients with healthier alternatives, you can create a treat that’s lower in sugar, higher in fiber, and still incredibly delicious. Below, we'll go over a step-by-step recipe for healthy cinnamon rolls that is both tasty and good for you.
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### Healthy Cinnamon Rolls: Recipe Overview
**Servings**: 12
**Prep Time**: 20 minutes
**Cook Time**: 25 minutes
**Total Time**: 45 minutes
### Ingredients
#### For the Dough
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour (for a lighter texture)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any preferred milk alternative)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
#### For the Filling
- 2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar as an alternative)
- 1 ½ tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for added texture and nutrients)
#### For the Glaze (Optional)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
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#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. **Warm the Milk**: In a small saucepan, warm the almond milk until it’s lukewarm (about 110°F/43°C). Avoid overheating, as hot milk can kill the yeast.
2. **Activate the Yeast**: Add the yeast to the warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it begins to foam. This means the yeast is active.
3. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the applesauce, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Once the yeast has activated, add the milk mixture to the bowl and stir well.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough begins to form.
5. **Knead the Dough**: Lightly flour a clean surface, then transfer the dough and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not too sticky to handle. Add a little flour if necessary.
#### Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
1. **First Rise**: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. This step helps create a soft and fluffy texture in the final rolls.
#### Step 3: Prepare the Filling
1. **Make the Filling**: In a small bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and cinnamon. Stir well to form a paste-like consistency.
#### Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
1. **Roll Out the Dough**: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles, then transfer it back to a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
2. **Add the Filling**: Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans on top if using, pressing them gently into the dough.
3. **Roll and Cut**: Starting from one of the long edges, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Using a sharp knife or dental floss (unflavored), cut the log into 12 equal rolls.
#### Step 5: Final Rise and Bake
1. **Arrange the Rolls**: Place the rolls in a lightly greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one for expansion. Cover and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing them to puff up slightly.
2. **Bake**: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
#### Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
1. **Mix the Glaze**: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
2. **Drizzle the Glaze**: Allow the rolls to cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top.
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### Nutritional Benefits
This healthy cinnamon roll recipe is packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that make it a guilt-free treat:
- **Whole Wheat Flour**: High in fiber and protein, whole wheat flour provides sustained energy and supports healthy digestion.
- **Unsweetened Applesauce**: Replacing some fat with applesauce reduces the calorie content while adding natural sweetness and moisture to the dough.
- **Coconut Sugar**: A lower-glycemic alternative to refined sugar, coconut sugar has trace minerals and won’t cause blood sugar spikes like traditional sugar.
- **Cinnamon**: Cinnamon not only adds warmth and flavor but also contains antioxidants that support immune health and may help regulate blood sugar.
- **Greek Yogurt Glaze**: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang, as well as probiotics that support digestive health and protein for satiety.
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### Tips for the Best Healthy Cinnamon Rolls
- **Make the Night Before**: Prepare the rolls up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
- **Add Extra Fiber**: Try adding a tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds to the dough for an additional fiber boost.
- **Keep the Dough Moist**: If the dough seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches a soft, pliable consistency.
- **Customize the Filling**: Experiment with different fillings, such as adding raisins, dates, or even a few tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate-cinnamon twist.
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### Storing and Reheating
These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they also store well. Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes to restore their softness.
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### Conclusion
This healthy cinnamon roll recipe proves that indulgent treats don’t have to derail your wellness goals. By using whole ingredients and making a few simple swaps, you can enjoy cinnamon rolls that are nourishing, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weekend breakfast, celebrating with friends, or just treating yourself, these rolls bring all the satisfaction without the sugar overload.