If you’re looking for a guilt-free treat that doesn’t skimp on comfort or flavor, these Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls are about to become your new favorite kitchen adventure. With their pillowy-soft texture, delicious swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar, and a drizzle of vanilla-kissed glaze, these rolls prove you don’t need heavy ingredients for a true breakfast (or dessert) moment. What makes them really special is that they harness creamy, tangy Greek yogurt for a naturally tender dough—no yeast, no waiting around, and absolutely no compromise on taste. Whether you’re baking with kids or treating yourself to a slow Saturday morning, this easy recipe guarantees bakery-worthy cinnamon rolls every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun, especially when each one serves a delicious purpose! For these Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll be amazed at how just a handful of humble pantry staples deliver big, comforting flavors with a fraction of the fuss.
- Self-rising flour: This makes the dough rise all on its own, so you don’t need yeast! If you don’t have it, a simple DIY swap works perfectly.
- Fat-free plain Greek yogurt: The real MVP here, adding protein, moisture, and a lovely tang that balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: A touch in the dough adds gentle sweetness and helps develop a mellower flavor.
- Unsalted butter (or coconut oil): Melted and brushed onto the dough, this enriches the filling—smooth or dairy-free, your pick!
- Packed brown sugar: For a deep, caramel-like sweetness in every swirl (definitely use fresh brown sugar for best results).
- Ground cinnamon: Fragrant and warming, this classic spice turns the filling truly irresistible.
- Powdered sugar: The key to a perfectly silky, sweet glaze that crowns the rolls.
- Milk: Just a splash for the glaze to reach that dreamy, drizzly consistency.
- Vanilla extract: One little dash adds big, aromatic flavor to your icing.
How to Make Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat
Start things off right by preheating your oven to 350°F and giving your 8×8-inch baking dish a light grease. This simple step ensures your Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls bake evenly and pop out easily when it’s time to serve—no sticking means those swirls stay gorgeous and intact.
Step 2: Mix and Knead Your Dough
In a big, welcoming bowl, combine self-rising flour, fat-free Greek yogurt, and granulated sugar. Stir the mixture until it comes together as a rough dough, then turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead with your hands for two to three minutes, just until the dough is smooth and slightly elastic. This step gives the rolls their signature tender bite and makes them easy to roll out.
Step 3: Roll Out and Fill the Dough
Using a rolling pin, shape the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick—don’t stress about perfect edges! Brush the melted butter (or coconut oil) across the surface, then scatter the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the top. The combination of the buttery layer and sweet, spiced sprinkle is what guarantees that ooey-gooey cinnamon roll magic in every bite.
Step 4: Roll Up and Slice
Starting at the long edge, gently but firmly roll the dough into a tight log. It may feel rustic and homemade—that’s exactly what you want! Next, slice the log into nine even pieces with a sharp knife or piece of dental floss (for those perfect, neat swirls). Arrange the pieces swirl-side up in your greased baking dish, keeping a little space between each for gorgeous rise and caramelized edges.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls are puffed up and lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell like an absolute dream of cinnamon sugar happiness! They’ll emerge tender in the middle and golden at the edges—the sign of cinnamon roll perfection.
Step 6: Whip Up the Glaze and Finish
While the rolls are still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth and creamy. Drizzle the glaze on generously (the more the merrier), letting it sink into the crevices and finish the rolls off with that classic, glossy look. Serve immediately for maximum melty delight!
How to Serve Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
Get a little playful: a dusting of powdered sugar, an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, or a touch of orange zest on top all add a charming finish. Chopped walnuts or pecans also bring a welcome bit of crunch—worth trying if you like a textured bite.
Side Dishes
You can turn these Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls into a dreamy brunch spread by serving them beside fluffy scrambled eggs, a bowl of fresh berries, or a big, colorful fruit salad. For a special occasion or cozy breakfast, a creamy latte or tall glass of iced coffee fits right in.
Creative Ways to Present
Try nestling the rolls into cupcake liners for individual servings—perfect for potlucks or parties. You can also plate them up family-style, piled high on a warm platter so everyone can pull their own swirl. For a bit of fun, top each roll with a mini flag or edible flower for a festive touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra rolls, just let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and sweet, especially if you keep them tightly covered to prevent drying out.
Freezing
Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls freeze surprisingly well! Simply wrap the baked, cooled (unglazed) rolls individually in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag or container. They’ll hold up beautifully for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave.
Reheating
To bring the rolls back to their just-baked glory, reheat in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or in a low oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes. If you froze them unglazed, drizzle fresh glaze on right before serving—they’ll taste like you just made them!
FAQs
Can I use whole milk Greek yogurt instead of fat-free?
Absolutely! While fat-free keeps things lighter, whole milk Greek yogurt makes the rolls even richer and more tender. Adjust according to your preference or what you have on hand.
What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
No worries—just combine 2 cups all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt. It gives you the same lift with pantry basics.
Are these Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls sweet enough for dessert?
Definitely! Between the brown sugar filling and sweet glaze, these rolls make a fantastic dessert as well as a breakfast treat. Serve warm for an extra-indulgent experience.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can roll, slice, and arrange them in your baking dish the night before. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning. Just add a minute or two to the baking time since they’ll be starting cold.
Are there any dairy-free options for this recipe?
For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy Greek-style yogurt and swap the melted butter for coconut oil. The flavor will be a little different but still delicious and soft!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been on the hunt for a lighter, faster, and downright irresistible way to enjoy cinnamon rolls, these Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls are an absolute must-try. They’re comfort food with a feel-good twist, bursting with cinnamon warmth and easy enough for any day of the week. Give them a bake—you’re in for a treat that’ll be requested over and over again!
Print
Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Fat-Free Greek Yogurt Cinnamon Rolls are a healthier twist on the classic treat, made with self-rising flour and fat-free Greek yogurt for a light and fluffy dough. Filled with a sweet cinnamon mixture and topped with a simple glaze, these rolls are perfect for a guilt-free breakfast or dessert indulgence.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 2 cups self-rising flour
- 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, and granulated sugar. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth.
- Prepare the filling: Roll dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll and bake: Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 9 even rolls. Arrange rolls in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Make the glaze and serve: For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls and serve.
Notes
- If you don’t have self-rising flour, use 2 cups all-purpose flour mixed with 3 teaspoons baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- For added protein, use a high-protein Greek yogurt brand.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
