These Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls are soft and sweet, filled with yummy cinnamon and sugar goodness. Plus, using cottage cheese makes them extra fluffy and moist!
Getting the dough ready is a breeze, and the smell while they bake is simply irresistible. I like to enjoy them warm, maybe with a drizzle of icing on top—heavenly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: This is the star of the rolls! It adds moisture and makes the dough fluffy. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use silken tofu blended until smooth.
Butter: You need softened butter both in the dough and for the filling. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in the dough, while brown sugar gives flavor in the filling. If you’re cutting sugar, you can reduce the amount or use coconut sugar for a better alternative.
Flour: All-purpose flour is best here, but you can substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier texture. Just remember that it may change the dough’s consistency, so monitor your liquid levels!
How Do You Roll the Dough Properly for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls?
Rolling the dough correctly is key to getting nice, even rolls. Here’s how to do it:
- After rolling out the dough into a rectangle, make sure it’s even, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the softened butter evenly on top so it can soak into the dough.
- When rolling, start at a long end and roll tightly, ensuring the filling is well-secured inside. Avoid stretching the dough excessively, as it can lead to uneven rolls.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the log into sections, which keeps the ends from squishing out their filling.
Taking these steps helps your cinnamon rolls maintain their shape and ensures a gooey center. Enjoy your baking!
Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 20-25 minutes of baking time. Allow a little extra time for cooling before you drizzle on the icing. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour to get these delicious rolls ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×9 inch baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dough Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, softened butter, sugar, and salt. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything until it’s nice and smooth. This will create a rich and moist dough.
3. Add Dry Ingredients:
Sprinkle in the baking powder and flour, stirring gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix—just mix until it forms a soft dough that is slightly sticky.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
Lightly flour a clean surface. Take your dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 10×14 inches in size. It should be about 1/4 inch thick, so take your time to get it right!
5. Prepare the Filling:
Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough. This will help the filling stick and melt into the dough as it bakes.
6. Add Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the buttered dough evenly, covering it generously.
7. Roll Up the Dough:
Starting from one of the long edges, carefully roll the dough into a log. Try to keep it tight as you roll to ensure that all the filling stays inside!
8. Slice the Rolls:
Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 6-8 equal rolls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick. Place the cut rolls into the prepared baking dish with the cut side facing up.
9. Bake the Rolls:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Look for them to turn golden brown on top and be fully cooked through. The aroma while they bake will be delightful!
10. Make the Icing:
While your rolls are baking, whip up the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until it’s smooth. You can adjust the milk for your preferred consistency—add more for a thinner icing or less for a thicker spread.
11. Drizzle and Serve:
Once the rolls are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, drizzle the icing over the warm rolls for a sugary finish. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese! It will still provide moisture and texture to your rolls, although the flavor might be slightly milder. Just make sure it’s well-drained for best results.
How Long Do These Cinnamon Rolls Last?
These rolls stay fresh for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat before enjoying!
Can I Make the Dough the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls the night before. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What Should I Serve with Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls?
These rolls are perfect on their own, but serving them with a side of fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, can add a refreshing contrast. A cup of coffee or tea also pairs beautifully!
