Slightly Better for You Cinnamon Rolls

Elevate your brunch game with these irresistible "Slightly Better for You Cinnamon Rolls" that balance indulgence and wholesome ingredients. Made with a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flours and lightly sweetened with maple syrup, these rolls offer a healthier twist on the classic treat without sacrificing flavor. The filling features a luscious combination of light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and unsweetened applesauce, while a creamy low-fat cream cheese glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. With simple ingredients and just 25 minutes of prep time, these cinnamon rolls are ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth in a mindful way. Perfect for weekend mornings or special occasions, they’re a guilt-free way to enjoy a beloved comfort food!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups Whole wheat flour
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 1 cup Warm unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
• 2 tablespoons Maple syrup
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 0.5 cup Light brown sugar
• 1.5 tablespoons Ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons Unsweetened applesauce
• 0.5 cup Powdered sugar
• 2 ounces Low-fat cream cheese
• 0.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt. Mix thoroughly.

Step 2

In a small saucepan or microwave, warm the almond milk until it is just warm to the touch (about 110°F or 43°C). Combine the warm milk with maple syrup and melted butter. Stir well.

Step 3

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Step 4

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add small amounts of flour if the dough is sticky.

Step 5

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangular shape, about 12 inches by 9 inches.

Step 7

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and applesauce to create the filling.

Step 8

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.

Step 9

Carefully roll up the dough tightly from the long edge, then slice into 12 even rolls.

Step 10

Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 11

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 12

While the rolls bake, prepare the glaze by mixing the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add 1-2 teaspoons of water if needed for a spreadable consistency.

Step 13

Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool for 5 minutes, then spread the cream cheese glaze over the top.

Step 14

Serve warm and enjoy your slightly better-for-you cinnamon rolls!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(957.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2607.4

Total Fat 64.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 36.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 144.2mg	0%
Sodium 1643.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 473.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 42.0g	0%
Total Sugars 192.0g
Protein 53.4g	0%

Vitamin D 100.0IU	0%
Calcium 826.2mg	0%
Iron 17.4mg	0%
Potassium 1656.2mg	0%

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

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.7%

Protein: 7.9%

Carbs: 70.4%