Pizza Dough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe 

 Last Update March 6, 2024

By Jenny Zhang

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Have you ever found yourself enjoying a warm, fluffy pizza and wondered if you could create something equally delicious to complement it? We have the perfect solution that combines the best of both worlds – Pizza Dough Cinnamon Rolls! Whether you have leftover refrigerated pizza dough from the day before or store-bought pizza dough, these delectable treats are an incredible way to transform your meal's leftovers into a mouthwatering dessert.

Pizza dough cinnamon rolls offer a delightful combination of fluffy, sticky, and gooey goodness that is simply irresistible. Plus, they're incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for both experienced bakers and beginners alike. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a tray of heavenly homemade cinnamon rolls ready to be devoured.

In this post, we will guide you through the process of creating your very own Pizza Dough Cinnamon Rolls from homemade pizza dough. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this easy cinnamon rolls recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Healthy Pizza Dough Cinnamon Roll Recipe

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
25 minutes

Rest Time
90 minutes

Total Time
2 hours and 5 minutes

  • Cooking Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Servings: 10 Medium Rolls
  • Calories: 131
  • Courses: Dessert
  • Best Season: Any

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour (or substitute with your preferred whole grain flour)
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup warm water
  • 1/4 cup oat milk (or any unsweetened non-dairy milk)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil (or a healthier oil of your choice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor

Directions

1. Combine the warm water, maple syrup, and yeast in a small bowl. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, oat milk, and coconut oil. Mix everything together until a dough forms.

3. Transfer the cinnamon roll dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. Place the cinnamon roll dough back into the mixing bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

6. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangular shape on a floured surface. Aim for a thickness of approximately 1/4 inch.

7. In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and natural sweetener. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. If desired, sprinkle the chopped nuts or raisins over the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added flavor and texture.

8. Starting from one of the longer edges, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Slice the log into 1 1/2-inch thick rolls.

cutting cinnamon roll

9. Place the cinnamon rolls in the greased baking dish, leaving a small gap between each roll. Cover them with the kitchen towel and allow them to rise for an additional 20-30 minutes. Cinnamon rolls bake the best when they fill up the prepared baking dish, so be sure to use the right size baking dish.

10. Bake the cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

11. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Optionally, drizzle with a glaze made from a healthy sweetener of your choice.

frosting cinnamon buns

Tips

Add Nutritional Boosters: Incorporate nutritious ingredients into the dough or filling, such as ground flaxseed, chia seeds, or protein powder. These additions can increase the fiber and protein content of your cinnamon rolls.

Activate The Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active and fresh before starting. Dissolve it in warm water with a bit of sugar and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that your dough will rise properly.

Knead The Dough Properly: Take the time to knead the dough thoroughly. Proper kneading develops gluten, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, usually for about 8-10 minutes.

Nutritional Facts

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10


Calories

131


% Daily Value*


Total Fat 3.1g

4%


Saturated Fat 2.4g

12%


Cholesterol 0mg

0%


Sodium 121mg

5%


Total Carbohydrate 23.1g

8%


Dietary Fiber 1.2g

4%


Total Sugars 2.9g



Protein 2.9g



Vitamin D 0mcg

0%


Calcium 23mg

2%


Iron 1mg

8%


Potassium 49mg

1%


*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Allow Sufficient Rising Time: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size. This process usually takes 1-2 hours. If you rush the rising time, your cinnamon rolls may turn out dense and less fluffy.

Spread The filling Evenly: When applying the cinnamon-sugar filling, make sure it is evenly distributed over the dough's surface. This ensures that every bite of your cinnamon rolls is bursting with flavor.


How To Make Cinnamon Rolls Glaze

Ingredients

1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract.

  2. Stir the ingredients together until well combined and smooth.

  3. Taste the glaze and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if desired.

  4. If the glaze is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a teaspoon of almond milk or water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well after each addition.

  5. Once your cinnamon rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of each roll using a spoon, fork, or piping bag.

  6. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

How To Make Healthy Swaps

Use Healthier Fats

Substitute unhealthy fats like melted butter or shortening with healthier alternatives such as coconut oil, avocado oil, or nut butter. These options provide beneficial fats and add richness to the dough.

Reduce Added Sugar

Use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, or stevia instead of refined sugar or powdered sugar. You can also reduce the amount of sweetener used in the dough and filling and experiment with the sweetness level to suit your taste.

Choose Whole Grain Flour

Opt for whole grain flour or alternative flour like almond flour, oat flour, or whole wheat flour instead of refined white flour. Whole grain flours are higher in fiber and nutrients, making your cinnamon rolls more nutritious.

Opt for Low-Fat Dairy Alternatives

If using dairy, choose low-fat or non-dairy options like almond milk, oat milk, or Greek yogurt. They contain fewer saturated fats and can still provide moisture and a creamy texture.

Opt For Homemade Glaze Or Skip all Together

Use a healthier glaze alternative to replace the traditional cream cheese frosting or softened butter with protein-rich Greek yogurt and natural sweeteners. It adds a tangy and slightly sweet touch to your cinnamon rolls without the excess fat and calories. Enjoy your guilt-free, delicious cinnamon rolls with this nutritious glaze!

How to Elevate Cinnamon Rolls

Creative Spices

Experiment with different spices to add depth of flavor. Try incorporating a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or nutmeg into the dough or filling for a unique twist.

Nourishing Additions

Boost the nutritional profile by adding shredded carrots, zucchini, or mashed banana to the dough. These additions add moisture and a hint of natural sweetness.

Citrus Zest

Add a pop of freshness by incorporating citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, into the dough or filling. The citrusy aroma and tang will elevate the overall taste of the cinnamon rolls.

Nuts and Dried Fruits

Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top of the cinnamon filling for a satisfying crunch. You can also add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates to provide bursts of sweetness and texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pizza dough as a convenient option for making cinnamon rolls. Just make sure to follow the instructions for rolling out the dough and proceed with the recipe as usual.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. After preparing the dough, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The next day, you can proceed with rolling out the dough, adding the filling, and baking the cinnamon rolls.

Can I freeze the cinnamon rolls before or after baking them?

Yes, you can freeze cinnamon rolls either before or after baking them. If freezing before baking, assemble the rolls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw and rise before baking according to the recipe instructions. If freezing after baking, let the cinnamon rolls cool completely, wrap them tightly, and freeze. Thaw them at room temperature or reheat them when ready to serve.

Can I substitute whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour in the dough recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour in the dough recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and rising characteristics may differ from using all-purpose flour. Adjustments to the liquid ingredients or additional gluten-free binding agents may be necessary when using gluten-free flour.

How do I prevent the cinnamon filling from leaking out while baking?

To prevent the cinnamon filling from leaking out, make sure to roll the dough tightly when forming the cinnamon rolls. Press the dough firmly as you roll to keep the filling secure. Additionally, be careful not to overfill the dough with the cinnamon mixture, as the excess filling can cause leakage during baking.

What is the best way to cut the cinnamon roll dough into even slices?

The best way to cut cinnamon roll dough into even slices is by using a sharp knife or dental floss. Gently saw through the rolled dough to create clean, uniform slices. Alternatively, you can use a bench scraper or a serrated knife to make the cutting process easier.

How should I store the leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be kept at room temperature for a day or two. For longer storage, refrigerate the cinnamon rolls for up to 4-5 days. Warm them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I reheat the cinnamon rolls before serving?

Yes, you can reheat cinnamon rolls before serving. You can warm them in the oven at a low temperature or briefly in the microwave. Be cautious not to overheat them, as they can become dry. For best results, wrap them in foil before reheating to retain moisture.

frosted cinnamon buns

Jenny passionately advocates a holistic and natural approach to health and well-being. She has a Bachelor of Science degree and years of working in food sciences, specializing in organic & natural products. She is committed to helping others embrace a balanced, natural lifestyle that fosters well-being. Jenny believes that a harmonious balance between nutrition, fitness, and mindfulness is the key to unlocking the full potential of one’s well-being.

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