
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cinnamon rolls are easier to make than traditional yeasted versions and don’t require hours of rising time. The Greek yogurt adds protein, moisture, and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the filling. They can be enjoyed plain, drizzled with a glaze, or topped with cream cheese frosting. They’re a family favorite and a great recipe for weekend baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Greek yogurt
- Milk
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Butter (melted or softened)
- Powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
- Vanilla extract (for glaze, optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in Greek yogurt and a splash of milk until a soft dough forms. Knead gently until smooth.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
- Spread butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into even rolls.
- Arrange rolls in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- If desired, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and a little milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8–10 rolls.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
- Make a cream cheese frosting for a richer topping.
- Add cardamom or nutmeg with the cinnamon for a spiced twist.
- Make mini cinnamon rolls by cutting smaller pieces and reducing baking time.
Storage/Reheating
Store cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individually and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8–10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the rolls will be denser. Using half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour works well.
Do these rolls taste different from traditional cinnamon rolls?
They’re slightly tangier and lighter, but still soft, fluffy, and delicious.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and bake the rolls the next day.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be substituted, though texture may vary.
Can I use flavored Greek yogurt?
Plain yogurt is best, but vanilla or honey-flavored yogurt can work for added sweetness.
How do I keep the rolls soft?
Cover them with foil while baking if they brown too quickly, and store in an airtight container once cooled.
Do I need a mixer to make the dough?
No, the dough comes together easily by hand.
Can I add frosting instead of glaze?
Yes, cream cheese frosting is a classic choice for extra richness.
How do I slice the rolls neatly?
Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice clean, even rolls.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish and increase the ingredients proportionally.
Conclusion
Greek yogurt cinnamon rolls are a delightful, lighter spin on the beloved classic. With a soft dough enriched by yogurt, a sweet cinnamon swirl, and the option to glaze or frost, they’re perfect for breakfast or dessert. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your baking rotation.
Print
Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 rolls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Greek yogurt cinnamon rolls are a lighter, quicker alternative to traditional cinnamon rolls, featuring a soft, tangy dough and a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2–4 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter (plus extra for greasing)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze, optional)
- 1–2 teaspoons milk (for glaze, optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir in Greek yogurt and 2 tablespoons of milk to form a soft dough. Add more milk if needed. Knead gently until smooth.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
- Brush melted butter over the dough and sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 8–10 even rolls.
- Place the rolls into the greased baking dish, spacing slightly apart.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Optional: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for texture.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for natural sweetness.
- Cream cheese frosting makes a rich topping.
- Add cardamom or nutmeg with cinnamon for a spiced flavor.
- Make mini rolls by cutting smaller pieces and shortening bake time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg