These Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls are soft, golden, and irresistibly gooey—everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls but made lighter with the addition of protein-packed Greek yogurt. Each roll is filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with a luscious glaze that melts perfectly over the warm spirals. The first time I made these, I was amazed by how tender and rich they turned out, all without yeast or hours of rising time. They’re the perfect quick breakfast treat, brunch centerpiece, or cozy weekend bake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love these cinnamon rolls because they taste just as indulgent as traditional ones but with a healthier twist. Greek yogurt adds moisture, tang, and protein, keeping the dough soft while eliminating the need for heavy butter or cream. Best of all, these rolls come together in under an hour—no yeast, no waiting, just pure, cinnamon-swirled comfort. They’re ideal for busy mornings, spontaneous baking, or anyone craving a homemade treat that feels good to eat.
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Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls – Soft, Fluffy & Guilt-Free Indulgence
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 rolls
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls are soft, fluffy, and made without yeast — a lighter, quicker version of the classic treat. The dough uses Greek yogurt for natural moisture and tenderness, while the cinnamon-sugar filling and creamy glaze make every bite irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 cups Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- For the Filling:
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cinnamon
- For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8-inch round or square baking dish.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add Greek yogurt and honey, mixing with a spatula until a soft dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface for 1–2 minutes until smooth.
- Roll out: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle (about 1/4-inch thick).
- Prepare filling: Brush melted butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the top.
- Roll and slice: Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log. Slice into 8–10 rolls and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make glaze: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust thickness as desired.
- Serve: Drizzle glaze over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the softest texture.
- These rolls are yeast-free and don’t require rising time — perfect for a quick breakfast treat!
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and softness to the dough.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Help the rolls rise without yeast, keeping them fluffy.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Greek Yogurt: Adds richness, tang, and moisture to the dough.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Lightly sweetens and keeps the dough soft.
Milk: Helps bring the dough together for a smooth texture.
Butter (melted): Used in both the dough and filling for that buttery flavor.
Brown Sugar: Gives the filling its caramel-like sweetness.
Cinnamon: The star spice—warm, aromatic, and comforting.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and sweetness to the dough and glaze.
Powdered Sugar: For making a creamy glaze.
Cream Cheese or Greek Yogurt (for glaze): Adds richness and tang.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round or square baking dish and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add Greek yogurt, melted butter, honey, and milk. Mix until a soft dough forms. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead gently for 1–2 minutes until smooth.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 8–10 even pieces. Place the rolls cut-side up in the prepared dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and Greek yogurt or cream cheese until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls and serve immediately for the best soft, gooey texture.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 8–10 people. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Baking time: 25 minutes. Total time: 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving. To freeze, wrap individually and thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Protein Cinnamon Rolls: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the dough for extra protein.
Apple Cinnamon Rolls: Add diced apples to the filling for a fruity touch.
Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside for a sweet surprise.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based milk.
Nutty Delight: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling.
Caramel Drizzle: Replace the glaze with warm caramel sauce for a decadent version.
Pumpkin Spice Rolls: Add 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree and a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
Lemon Glaze: Mix lemon juice and zest into the glaze for a bright flavor.
Overnight Rolls: Prepare and refrigerate the unbaked rolls overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.
Mini Rolls: Slice smaller pieces and bake for 12–15 minutes for bite-sized treats.
FAQs
Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly softer and less rich.
Do I need yeast for this recipe?
No, baking powder and soda make the rolls rise perfectly without yeast.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate before baking—just bake when ready to serve.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but combine it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut yogurt and dairy-free butter and milk alternatives.
Why is my dough sticky?
Add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s easy to handle.
Can I make a sugar-free version?
Yes, use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit instead of sugar.
Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, but skip the baking powder and reduce salt slightly.
Can I skip the glaze?
You can, but it adds a wonderful sweetness—try a light drizzle if you prefer less sugar.
How do I know when they’re done?
The tops should be golden, and the centers cooked through but soft to the touch.
Conclusion
These Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls are everything you love about homemade rolls—soft, warm, and bursting with cinnamon goodness—but made lighter, faster, and easier. With no yeast and no waiting for dough to rise, they’re a perfect way to enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls any day of the week. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, each roll is a tender, gooey swirl of comfort that satisfies every craving without the guilt.
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