Healthy Low-Calorie Cinnamon Rolls

April 30, 2025

Craving that warm, gooey embrace of a cinnamon roll, but trying to stay on track with your health goals? You're not alone! For many of us, the classic cinnamon roll evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia. However, traditional recipes often come loaded with refined sugars, excessive butter, and a high-calorie count, making them an occasional treat at best. But what if you could enjoy that same delightful experience without the guilt? What if each bite was a step towards your wellness goals rather than a detour?

Healthy Cinnamon Rolls

Introducing our recipe for healthy, low-calorie cinnamon rolls! These aren't your average, heavy pastries. We've reimagined this beloved classic using simple yet powerful ingredient swaps to create a lighter version that doesn't compromise on flavour or that irresistible cinnamon-sugar swirl we all adore.

So, what makes these cinnamon rolls a healthier choice?

Firstly, the base of our dough utilises the magic of non-fat Greek yoghurt. You can easily find this creamy goodness at your local Alphamega stores. Greek yoghurt is not only lower in calories and fat compared to traditional butter-laden doughs, but it also packs a significant protein punch, helping you feel fuller for longer.

Secondly, we've significantly reduced the added sugars. While we still use a touch of brown sugar for that authentic caramel-like note in the filling, the overall sugar content is considerably lower than in conventional recipes. For the icing, we've opted for powdered stevia, a natural sweetener that provides sweetness without the added calories.

Furthermore, we've incorporated vanilla whey protein powder into the icing. This not only adds a lovely hint of vanilla flavor but also boosts the protein content of each roll. For a high-quality option, check out the vanilla whey protein powder from FuelSync. And here’s a little treat for you: use the discount code DIETSYNC15 at checkout to enjoy a 15% saving on your FuelSync order!

Finally, by using self-rising flour, readily available in Alphamega stores, we simplify the dough-making process without the need for extra butter or oil typically found in yeast-based doughs.

Get ready to experience the joy of a warm, comforting cinnamon roll that aligns perfectly with your healthy lifestyle!

Healthy Low-Calorie Cinnamon Rolls

SUBSTITUTES

  • Self-Rising Flour: If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own! For every 150g of all-purpose flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
  • Almond Spread: Feel free to substitute with other nut or seed butters like cashew butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor and nutritional profile.
  • Brown Sugar: For a less refined option, you could try coconut sugar, although it will have a slightly different flavor.
  • Unsweetened Almond Milk: Any other unsweetened plant-based milk (soy, oat, cashew, etc.) or even regular water will work to adjust the consistency of the filling and icing.
  • Vanilla Whey Protein: If you don't have vanilla whey protein, you can omit it from the icing. You might want to add a drop or two of vanilla extract for flavor. Alternatively, you could use another flavor of whey protein or even a plant-based protein powder, keeping in mind it might slightly change the taste and texture.
Healthy Low-Calorie Cinnamon Rolls

OPTIONAL MODIFICATIONS

Want to add a little something extra? Here are some optional modifications:

  • Add a touch of spice: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the cinnamon filling for a warmer, more complex flavour.
  • Citrus zest: Add the zest of half an orange or lemon to the dough for a bright and zesty twist.
  • Nuts or seeds: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling for added texture and flavor.
  • Make it vegan: Substitute the Greek yoghurt with a thick plant-based yoghurt alternative (like coconut or soy yoghurt) and ensure your protein powder is also plant-based.

How to Store Your Cinnamon Rolls

  • Room Temperature: Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
  • Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • Freezer: To freeze, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature and then warm them in the oven or microwave.  

Healthy Low-Calorie Cinnamon Rolls

Recipe by Frixos Dimitriadis Course: SnacksDifficulty: Medium
Servings

8

bars
Prep time

20

minutes
Calories

150

kcal

Craving a warm, gooey cinnamon roll without the guilt? These healthy, low-calorie versions are surprisingly simple to make and deliver that classic cinnamon-sugar swirl you love. Get ready to enjoy a lighter take on a beloved treat! 

Ingredients

  • Dough:
  • 210 g 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 210 g 1 cup non-fat Greek yoghurt

  • 1 tsp 1 tsp baking powder

  • Cinnamon Filling:
  • 30 g 2 tbsp almond spread

  • 20 g 2 tbsp brown sugar

  • 5 g 2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 2 tbsp 2 tbsp tablespoons water or unsweetened almond milk (to adjust consistency)

  • Icing:
  • 30 g 2 tbsp powdered stevia

  • 1 tbsp 1 tbsp tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or water)

  • 10 g 1 tbsp vanilla whey protein

Directions

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease or line a small baking pan (approximately 20cm x 20cm or similar).
  • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and non-fat Greek yoghurt. Mix until a dough forms. It might seem a little sticky at first, but keep mixing until it comes together.
  • Lightly flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out and knead gently for 2-3 minutes until smooth. Roll the dough into a rectangle, approximately 30cm x 20cm.
  • In a small bowl, combine the almond spread, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add water or unsweetened almond milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach a spreadable consistency.
  • Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll the dough up like a log.
  • Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 8 equal pieces.
  • Arrange the cinnamon rolls in the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered stevia, unsweetened almond milk (or water), and vanilla whey protein until you reach a smooth, drizzable consistency. Add more liquid if needed to thin it out.
  • Once the cinnamon rolls are slightly cooled, drizzle the icing evenly over the top. Serve warm and enjoy your healthy treat!

Notes

  • Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cinnamon rolls. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

  • Roll the dough tightly: A tight roll will help create those beautiful swirls and prevent gaps.

  • Use dental floss for clean cuts: Unflavored dental floss can make cleaner cuts than a knife, preventing the filling from squeezing out. Simply slide the floss under the log and pull the ends together to slice.

  • Adjust sweetness to your liking: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar in the filling and stevia in the icing based on your preference.

  • Warm them up: A slightly warmed cinnamon roll is even more delicious! Pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving.

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Healthy Low-Calorie Cinnamon Rolls

Nutrition facts

Nutrition information per cinnamon roll

140

Calories

(kcal)

9

Protein

(g)

20

Carbs

(g)

5

Fats

(g)

3

Sugars

(g)

1

Fibre

(g)

0.5

Sat. fat

(g)

150

Sodium

(mg)

Protein0%
25 %
Carbs0%
57 %
Fats0%
18 %

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MEEET FRIXOS!

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Hi! I’m Frixos, a sports enthusiast and nutrition coach who also loves cooking. I began cooking as a way to find low calorie and high protein recipes. Here, you will find a variety of things – from low-calorie recipes to comfort food and indulgent desserts. Life is about balance! So go ahead and try these delicious recipes!

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