Protein Cookie Dough Sweet Rolls

Soft and fluffy, these protein cookie dough sweet rolls strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment. Swirled with a creamy, high-protein cookie dough filling and finished with a light vanilla glaze, these rolls deliver all the comfort of a bakery treat and the boost of extra protein to power you through breakfast or snack time.

When I first made these, my family could not believe they were both high protein and bakery-worthy soft. Now I get special requests for these on birthdays and cozy weekends.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: gives these rolls classic structure and softness choose unbleached for the best rise
• Granulated sugar: brings subtle sweetness and helps activate the yeast make sure it is fresh for best results
• Instant dry yeast: makes the dough rise quickly and evenly store packets in the fridge for maximum potency
• Salt: sharpens flavor and balances sweetness use fine sea salt for no grittiness
• Warm milk: activates the yeast and makes a rich tender crumb whole milk works best but any milk will do
• Unsalted butter: adds decadence to both dough and filling buy high quality for sweeter flavor
• Large egg: binds the dough together and adds moisture lay it out to reach room temperature for best mixing
• Vanilla or chocolate protein powder: boosts protein and brings cookie dough vibes use your favorite blend but avoid gritty kinds
• Almond butter or peanut butter: adds richness and nutty notes use one with only nuts and salt for the best texture
• Coconut sugar or brown sugar: deepens the filling’s caramel flavor fresh brown sugar will blend most smoothly
• Mini dark chocolate chips: give the filling bursts of flavor choose high-quality or dairy free chips if preferred
• Powdered sugar: creates a silky glaze sift before measuring to avoid lumps
• Vanilla extract: in glaze and filling for irresistible bakery aroma pure extract makes a difference
• Measuring cups and spoons plus a rolling pin and large bowl: make this an easy weekend bake

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Whisk together flour sugar yeast and salt in your large mixing bowl Add warm milk melted butter and egg Mix until a sticky dough forms Then knead by hand or with a stand mixer for about six to eight minutes The dough should be smooth and slightly tacky but not stick to your fingers This step is the heart of the recipe and gives the rolls their tender pull-apart crumb

Let Rise:

Transfer your kneaded dough into a greased bowl Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and set in a warm draft-free spot Let it rise for about one hour until doubled in volume Do not rush this step as a full rise is the secret to fluffy rolls

Make the Protein Cookie Dough Filling:

While the dough is rising combine your protein powder nut butter softened butter coconut sugar and vanilla extract in a medium bowl Use a spatula to mix until creamy Stir in the mini chocolate chips Cover and set aside until you are ready to assemble

Roll Dough and Spread Filling:

Once the dough has risen punch it down gently and turn out onto a lightly floured surface Roll it into a rectangle that is about sixteen by twelve inches The even thickness is key Spread the protein cookie dough filling all over the rectangle leaving about a half inch strip bare around the edges so the roll will seal properly

Shape Cut and Second Rise:

Roll the dough up tightly from the long side forming a log Pinch the seam to seal Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut into twelve equal pieces Arrange them cut side up in a greased nine by thirteen inch baking dish Cover again and let rise for about thirty minutes until slightly puffy Do not skip this second rise or your rolls will not be as light

Bake Until Golden:

Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Bake the rolls uncovered for about twenty two to twenty five minutes They should be golden on top and just set in the center Cool for about five to ten minutes before glazing

Glaze the Warm Rolls:

Whisk together powdered sugar milk and vanilla until smooth The glaze should be thick enough to drizzle Drizzle generously over the warm rolls so it soaks in a little Serve while still slightly warm for the softest texture

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I am obsessed with the way the protein cookie dough filling stays creamy through baking The scent of the vanilla glaze filling the kitchen always reminds me of cozy holiday mornings when everyone was excited to gather by the oven in their pajamas

Storage Tips

Once the rolls have cooled cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to twenty four hours To keep longer refrigerate for up to four days then rewarm with a twenty second microwave burst For a freezer stash wrap unglazed rolls tightly in plastic then foil Freeze for up to two months Thaw and glaze just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for nut allergies Use a gluten free flour blend in equal measure if needed Oat flour works too but will yield a slightly denser roll You can use plant based protein powder but avoid chalky or gritty ones If you want a sweeter filling add two tablespoons more coconut sugar

Serving Suggestions

These are perfect with coffee or cold brew for brunch They also shine as an afternoon snack with a glass of cold milk For festive mornings top with extra mini chocolate chips or sprinkle with toasted chopped nuts For a decadent treat try a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream alongside

Cultural and Historical Context

Sweet rolls are a beloved staple in American home baking but this recipe puts a modern twist by using protein powder in the filling and even in the dough if you like Powering up breakfast with extra protein is a trend born from busy lifestyles but these rolls keep all the charm of a classic bakery bun My kids love them for breakfast on sports days and they remind me of cinnamon roll sleepovers growing up

Seasonal Adaptations

In cooler months use a little extra rising time so the dough doubles fully Swap mini dark chocolate chips for chopped white chocolate or butterscotch in the winter For summer try swirling in a little cinnamon or cardamom In fall top with toasted pecans or walnuts

Hints for Best Results

Allow all ingredients to reach room temperature before starting Check yeast expiration and proof if unsure it must foam in warm milk If your kitchen is chilly let dough rise in your turned off oven with just the light on

Success Stories

Several friends have used this recipe to introduce baking with kids since the dough is easy to work and the filling is fun to spread Others have doubled the batch and had great success freezing extra rolls so they can pop a few in the oven on busy mornings My sister even brings these to potlucks and says they vanish before anything else

Freezer Meal Conversion

To make ahead for busy weeks assemble and bake the rolls as directed but do not glaze Cool completely Wrap tightly and freeze up to two months Thaw overnight at room temp then rewarm and glaze when ready to serve The texture is just as pillowy soft as fresh

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If you love bakery-style rolls but want a nourishing upgrade, these protein cookie dough sweet rolls are your new go-to for weekend mornings and happy snacking. Enjoy every soft bite and the cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.

Recipe Q&A

→ Can I use gluten-free flour for these rolls?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with oat flour or a gluten-free blend to create rolls suitable for gluten-free diets.

→ How do I enhance the protein content further?

Swap out 1/2 cup of flour in the dough for vanilla protein powder, or add more protein powder to the filling as desired.

→ Can I use different nut butters in the filling?

Absolutely. Almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter work well and offer varied flavours and nutrition.

→ What is the best way to store these rolls?

Keep rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for two days, or refrigerate for up to five days to maintain freshness.

→ Are these rolls suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, all ingredients listed are vegetarian-friendly. Always check protein powder and chocolate chips for hidden non-vegetarian additives.

→ How can I make these rolls extra soft?

Use warm milk and knead dough until elastic. Allow full rising times for optimal softness and texture in the final rolls.