There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. The warm swirl of cinnamon sugar, the golden, fluffy dough, and the creamy frosting on top—it’s the kind of treat that makes you pause and savor the moment. Now, imagine that classic indulgence with a clever twist: cottage cheese cinnamon rolls. These rolls take everything you love about the traditional version and make it even softer, richer, and surprisingly more satisfying.
If you love experimenting with creative takes on this classic, you might also enjoy these Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls for a playful, colorful spin.
At first, you might raise an eyebrow—cottage cheese in cinnamon rolls? But once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe is quickly gaining popularity. Not only does cottage cheese make the dough incredibly soft and moist, but it also adds a boost of protein that makes these rolls a little more filling and balanced. If you’ve been looking for a way to make cinnamon rolls both decadent and satisfying, this recipe is for you.
What Makes Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls Unique?
Classic cinnamon rolls are known for their gooey centers and sweet frosting, but they don’t always leave you feeling great afterward. By adding cottage cheese, you get a texture that’s even more tender while sneaking in a nutritional upgrade.
- Moist Dough: Cottage cheese keeps the rolls from drying out.
- Extra Protein: A great option if you’re craving something sweet but want it to be more filling.
- Balanced Flavor: The mild tang of cottage cheese complements the sweetness of cinnamon and sugar.
Unlike traditional versions, cottage cheese cinnamon rolls feel a little lighter without losing the indulgence you crave.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part? You don’t need any complicated ingredients. Most of what you need is probably already in your kitchen.
Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cottage cheese (blended until smooth)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp softened butter
- Optional: mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp cottage cheese (for added creaminess)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Prepare the Dough
Start by blending your cottage cheese until smooth. This ensures your dough has a silky texture. Next, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a bowl and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Stir in flour, melted butter, egg, cottage cheese, and salt. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
If you like prepping the night before, Overnight Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls are a great option.
Let It Rise
Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for about an hour or until it doubles in size. This step is key to achieving that light, airy texture.
For a tangier, artisan-style loaf, try these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls.
Mix the Filling
While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. If you want an extra indulgent version, add chocolate chips or crushed nuts.
Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, shape it into a large rectangle by rolling it out. Evenly spread the cinnamon filling over the surface. Tightly roll from the long side, then slice into 12 equal pieces.
Second Rise
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30-40 minutes until puffy.
Bake and Frost
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. While still warm, spread the frosting over the rolls and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or crushed cookies if you want a bakery-style finish.
Why You’ll Love Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls aren’t just delicious—they check all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing, feel-good recipe:
- Flavor Explosion: Gooey cinnamon sugar meets a soft, protein-rich dough.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Weekend brunch, family gatherings, or holiday mornings.
- Beginner-Friendly: The dough is easy to handle, making this a great recipe even if you’re new to baking.
Tips & Variations for Success
Pro Tips
- Puree the cottage cheese before mixing it into the dough.
- Don’t overbake—start checking at 20 minutes.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Fun Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Add pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cottage cheese, plant-based butter, and almond milk.
- Glazed Finish: Swap cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla glaze.
- For something unexpected, check out these Garlic Bread Cinnamon Rolls.
- If you’re craving more spice and richness, you’ll love these Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways:
- Warm with coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
- Topped with ice cream for dessert.
- On a holiday breakfast table alongside fruit and pastries.
- Packed in lunchboxes for a fun treat.
Storing & Freezing
Don’t worry if you have leftovers—these rolls keep beautifully.
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Keeps for 4–5 days; reheat before serving.
- In the Freezer: Freeze unfrosted rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cottage cheese?
Yes, just blend it until smooth before adding it to the dough.
Do they taste like cheese?
Not at all. Cottage cheese gives a subtle creaminess without an overpowering flavor.
Can I make these overnight?
Absolutely. Prepare the rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning.
Are they healthier than regular cinnamon rolls?
They’re a bit more balanced thanks to the protein from cottage cheese, but still deliciously indulgent.
Cottage cheese cinnamon rolls are proof that a simple twist can make a classic even better. They’re soft, gooey, and comforting, with just enough added nutrition to make you feel good about indulging.
The next time you’re craving something warm and sweet, skip the store-bought version and make these at home. You’ll love how easy they are to put together—and how quickly they disappear from the pan.
Ready to give them a try? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake a batch of cottage cheese cinnamon rolls today. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you.
Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cottage cheese blended until smooth
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
- ½ cup warm milk 110°F
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp softened butter
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts Optional
For the Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp cottage cheese for added creaminess
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp milk or almond milk (1-2 tbsp)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- Blend the cottage cheese until smooth.
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, melted butter, egg, cottage cheese, and salt. Knead until smooth and elastic.
First Rise:
- Cover and let the dough rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until combined.
Assemble the Rolls:
- Roll dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the filling evenly across the dough.
- Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 rolls.
Second Rise:
- Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.
Frost & Serve:
- Mix frosting ingredients until smooth. Spread over warm rolls.
- Sprinkle with crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.
