Recipe for Whole Wheat Cinnamon Rolls That Delight Everyone

Warm, fragrant, and irresistibly soft, whole wheat cinnamon rolls are a wholesome twist on a beloved classic. If you’ve been searching for a way to enjoy cinnamon rolls with a bit more fiber and a nutty flavor, this recipe is for you.

Using whole wheat flour adds a hearty texture and subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the sweet cinnamon and brown sugar filling. These cinnamon rolls are perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast treat that the whole family will adore.

Not only are they delicious, but making cinnamon rolls from scratch is a rewarding baking project that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked bread. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this step-by-step guide helps you create soft, fluffy rolls with a golden crust and a luscious icing drizzle that melts into every swirl.

Ready to bake some wholesome, melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon rolls? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This whole wheat cinnamon roll recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a traditional favorite while adding nutritional benefits. Whole wheat flour contributes more fiber, vitamins, and minerals compared to all-purpose flour, making these rolls a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture.

These cinnamon rolls are made with simple, natural ingredients and include a sweet but not overpowering cinnamon filling. The dough rises beautifully to create soft, fluffy rolls with just the right chewiness.

Plus, the recipe is customizable—you can add nuts, raisins, or swap out the icing for a dairy-free glaze.

Best of all, these rolls freeze well, so you can prepare a batch in advance and enjoy warm treats whenever you like. This recipe will quickly become a staple for your weekend baking!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened (optional, for icing)
• 2 tbsp milk (for icing)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Rolling pin
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional but helpful)
• Pastry brush (optional)

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a medium bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar, stirring until dissolved. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer with a dough hook to combine until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time. Alternatively, knead with the stand mixer for about 6 minutes.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well mixed and spreadable.
6. Roll out the dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 12×16 inches thick.
7. Spread the filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Form the rolls: Starting from a long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
9. Second rise: Place the rolls cut-side up into the greased baking pan. Cover again and let rise for 30-45 minutes, until puffy.
10. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. If the tops brown too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
11. Make the icing: While rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, cream cheese (if using), milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk or sugar as needed.
12. Glaze and serve: Remove rolls from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle or spread the icing over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra softness, substitute half the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour.

Adding nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling provides a delightful crunch. You can also mix raisins or dried cranberries into the filling for natural sweetness.

If you prefer a vegan version, swap the milk for almond or oat milk, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) instead of the chicken egg.

To make ahead, prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let them come to room temperature and rise for 30 minutes before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These whole wheat cinnamon rolls are delightful on their own with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more decadent breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

They also pair wonderfully with plant-based milks or hot chocolate for a cozy weekend treat. For special occasions, try topping the rolls with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra touch of festivity.

For a savory contrast, pair these sweet rolls with a light spinach salad like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Conclusion

Making whole wheat cinnamon rolls at home is a rewarding experience that yields a delicious and wholesome treat perfect for any time of day. The nutty flavor of whole wheat combined with the sweet cinnamon filling creates a balance of taste and nutrition that is truly satisfying.

These rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring with your favorite morning beverage.

The step-by-step process is approachable and fun, even for those new to baking. Plus, the recipe is versatile enough to adapt to different dietary needs and flavor preferences.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought cinnamon rolls. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other wholesome delights like our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or explore more plant-based ideas in Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals.

Happy baking and enjoy your wholesome cinnamon rolls!

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