Description
If you’re looking for a warm, gooey treat that feels indulgent but packs a little protein punch, these Easy Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are your answer. Soft, fluffy, and filled with a sweet cinnamon swirl, these rolls come together without yeast, without rising time, and with the help of protein-rich cottage cheese in the dough. Perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or a cozy brunch spread.
Whether you’re baking for the family or treating yourself, these cinnamon rolls deliver all the flavor and comfort of the classic version—with a quick and healthier twist.
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
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¼ cup milk
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¼ cup neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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¼ tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Filling:
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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⅓ cup brown sugar
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
For the Optional Glaze:
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½ cup powdered sugar
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1–2 tbsp milk
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¼ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Blend Wet Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese, milk, oil, sugar, and vanilla.
Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Pour the blended cottage cheese mixture into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently with a spatula until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
If needed, sprinkle in 1–2 tbsp extra flour to make it workable.
Step 4: Roll the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 10×14 inches and ¼ inch thick.
Step 5: Add Cinnamon Filling
Spread softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough.
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Step 6: Roll & Slice
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut into 8–10 equal slices.
Place the rolls into the greased pan, spacing them slightly apart.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the rolls are cooked through.
Let cool for a few minutes before glazing or serving.
Step 8: Add the Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls just before serving.
Notes
Blend the Cottage Cheese – For a smoother dough, blend cottage cheese until creamy.
Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined for a tender texture.
Keep the Dough Soft – It should be soft but manageable, not dry.
Slice Cleanly – Use unflavored dental floss to cut even slices without squishing the dough.
Glaze While Warm – This allows the glaze to melt slightly into the rolls for extra gooeyness.