Gluten-Free Caramel Pecan Protein Cinnamon Rolls: A Sweet Treat Packed with Goodness

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Imagine waking up to the smell of warm cinnamon rolls baking in the oven, their sweet aroma filling your home. Now, picture these cinnamon rolls being not only delicious but also packed with protein, gluten-free, and topped with caramel and crunchy pecans. That’s exactly what you get with these Gluten-Free Caramel Pecan Protein Cinnamon Rolls. They’re the perfect blend of indulgence and health, making them a treat you can enjoy guilt-free.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Rolls

1. Gluten-Free and Nutritious

Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or simply looking for a healthier option, these cinnamon rolls are made with gluten-free flours and protein powder to keep things light and nourishing.

2. Packed with Protein

Thanks to the collagen protein powder, these rolls are a great way to boost your protein intake while satisfying your sweet tooth.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

These rolls are ideal for a weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or even a mid-day snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Rolls

IngredientAmountSubstitutions
Gluten-free baking flour1 cup (130g)All-purpose flour for non-GF option
Collagen protein powder½ cup (60g)Any unflavored protein powder
Coconut flour½ cup1 cup all-purpose flour
Allulose sweetener¼ cupBaking stevia, erythritol, or sugar
Baking powder1 tbsp
Salt¼ tsp (optional)
Eggs2 largeFlax eggs for vegan option
Unsweetened almond milk¼ cupAny milk of choice

For the Filling

IngredientAmountSubstitutions
Vegan buttery spread2 tbspUnsalted butter
Allulose sweetener⅓ cupBaking stevia, erythritol, or sugar
Ground cinnamon2 tsp

For the Topping

IngredientAmountSubstitutions
Allulose sweetener¾ cupReduced-calorie brown sugar blend
Vegan buttery spread2 tbspUnsalted butter
Pure vanilla extract¼ tsp
Salt⅛ tsp (optional)
Chopped pecans⅓ cup (optional)Walnuts or almonds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients for the rolls: gluten-free flour, protein powder, coconut flour, allulose, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs and milk to the dry mixture and combine using a fork. Knead the dough until it becomes soft and rollable. Adjust consistency with extra flour or milk as needed.
  4. Form the dough into a ball and set aside.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

  1. Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper.
  2. Roll it out into a rectangle slightly larger than 9″ x 13″.
  3. Trim any uneven edges and patch any gaps by adding dough scraps, rolling out again until even.

Step 3: Add the Filling

  1. Melt the vegan butter and spread it evenly over the rolled-out dough.
  2. Mix the allulose and cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly across the surface of the dough.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

  1. Starting from the longer edge of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log.
  2. Slice the log into equal pieces (about 12 rolls).

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

  1. Arrange the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
  2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Topping

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter over low heat.
  2. Add the allulose, vanilla extract, and salt, stirring until smooth.
  3. Drizzle the topping over the baked rolls and sprinkle with chopped pecans.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Room-temperature eggs and milk help the dough come together more easily and bake evenly.

2. Don’t Overwork the Dough

Gluten-free doughs can be delicate. Handle with care to maintain a light and fluffy texture.

3. Adjust Sweetness to Taste

Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of sweetener in the filling and topping.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Gluten-Free Caramel Pecan Protein Cinnamon Rolls with:

  • A warm cup of coffee or tea.
  • A dollop of whipped coconut cream.
  • Fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.

Nutritional Information

NutrientAmount per Roll
Calories180
Protein10g
Carbohydrates18g
Fat8g

FAQs About Gluten-Free Caramel Pecan Protein Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning.

2. Can I Freeze the Dough?

Absolutely. Freeze the rolled and sliced dough in a single layer. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight.

3. Can I Use a Different Protein Powder?

Yes, as long as it’s unflavored or vanilla. Ensure the consistency remains similar to collagen powder.

4. What’s the Best Substitute for Coconut Flour?

You can use all-purpose flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid content.

5. Are These Rolls Vegan?

While the recipe uses eggs and butter, you can substitute with flax eggs and vegan butter for a fully vegan version.

6. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Treat

These Gluten-Free Caramel Pecan Protein Cinnamon Rolls are everything you love about cinnamon rolls, but with a healthier, protein-packed twist. They’re indulgent yet nutritious, making them a perfect addition to your breakfast table or snack repertoire.

Ready to Bake?

Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to this sweet and satisfying delight. Don’t forget to share your creations and leave a review!

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Gluten-Free Caramel Pecan Protein Cinnamon Rolls: A Sweet Treat Packed with Goodness


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  • Author: Clara
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 rolls

Description

Wake up to the heavenly aroma of Gluten-Free Caramel Pecan Protein Cinnamon Rolls, a healthier twist on a classic treat. These rolls combine protein-packed dough, a sweet cinnamon filling, and a caramel-pecan topping for a deliciously indulgent breakfast or snack that’s entirely gluten-free. Perfect for weekend mornings, holiday brunches, or meal prep!


Ingredients

For the Rolls

  • 1 cup (130g) gluten-free baking flour
  • ½ cup (60g) collagen protein powder (or unflavored protein powder)
  • ½ cup coconut flour
  • ¼ cup allulose sweetener (or erythritol, baking stevia, or sugar)
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt (optional)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

For the Filling

  • 2 tbsp vegan buttery spread (or unsalted butter)
  • ⅓ cup allulose sweetener (or sugar alternative)
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Topping

  • ¾ cup allulose sweetener (or reduced-calorie brown sugar blend)
  • 2 tbsp vegan buttery spread (or unsalted butter)
  • ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ⅛ tsp salt (optional)
  • ⅓ cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together gluten-free baking flour, protein powder, coconut flour, allulose, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs and almond milk, mixing with a fork until a soft, rollable dough forms. Adjust consistency with additional flour or milk if necessary.
  4. Shape the dough into a ball and set aside.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

  1. Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper.
  2. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 9″ x 13″. Trim edges if uneven, reusing scraps as needed.

Step 3: Add the Filling

  1. Melt the vegan butter and brush it over the surface of the rolled-out dough.
  2. Mix allulose and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 4: Roll and Slice

  1. Starting with the longer edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
  2. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.

Step 5: Bake the Rolls

  1. Arrange the rolls in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the vegan butter.
  2. Stir in allulose, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
  3. Drizzle the topping over the warm rolls and sprinkle with chopped pecans.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Option: Refrigerate assembled rolls overnight and bake fresh in the morning.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: Freeze baked rolls for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast/Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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