Name: Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups cottage cheese (2% fat); 1/4 cup milk; 3 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 3 1/3 cups self-rising flour (plus more for dusting and adjusting dough); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

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There is something truly magical about the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, and when you add a delightful twist like cottage cheese, you get a softness and tenderness that’s absolutely unforgettable. This Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Glaze Recipe is my go-to for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat—it combines the creamy tang of cottage cheese with the sweet spice of cinnamon, all crowned by a luscious maple glaze that brings everything together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking to wow your family or simply treat yourself, this recipe promises rolls that are moist, tender, and irresistibly flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a sequence of four clear glass bowls arranged in a 2x2 grid on a white marbled surface. The top left bowl contains small white chunks of cheese and a splash of vanilla extract on top of a white creamy liquid. The top right bowl shows a smooth light beige cream after mixing. The bottom left bowl has white flour being added on top of the light beige cream. The bottom right bowl contains a smooth, round ball of pale beige dough resting in the clear glass bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the soft dough, sweet cinnamon filling, and that heavenly glaze that makes these rolls so special. From the cottage cheese that adds creaminess to the maple syrup that enriches the dough’s sweetness, every element is essential for the perfect roll.

Cottage cheese (1 1/2 cups): Provides moisture and a tender texture, making the rolls delightfully soft.
Milk (1/4 cup): Helps blend the dough and keeps it light and fluffy.
Maple syrup (3 tablespoons): Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to both dough and glaze.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances overall aroma and adds warmth.
Self-rising flour (3 1/3 cups): Forms the base of the dough with built-in leavening for a gentle rise.
Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Brushed on dough for richness and golden crust.
Brown sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens and caramelizes the cinnamon filling beautifully.
Cinnamon (1 1/2 tablespoons): Provides that classic spicy warmth in the filling.
Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Used in the glaze for creaminess and tanginess.
Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the glaze and gives it that smooth texture.

How to Make Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve that perfect golden bake. Get an 8×11 inch baking dish ready by brushing it lightly with melted butter—this ensures the rolls won’t stick and will have a lovely buttery edge.

Step 2: Blend the Cottage Cheese Mixture

Place the cottage cheese, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract into a blender and blitz until completely smooth. This step is crucial because it transforms the cottage cheese into a velvety base that will infuse the dough with moisture and subtle sweetness.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Transfer the cottage cheese blend into a large bowl, scraping down the sides so no creamy bits are wasted. Stir in the self-rising flour with a spatula, then use your hands to knead the mixture into a thick dough. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour bit by bit—just enough so it’s soft and manageable but not dry.

Step 4: Roll and Butter the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough into a rough 11 by 8 inch rectangle. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just big enough to cut into ten generous rolls. Brush the top of the dough with some melted butter, making sure every inch is coated with richness.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon until well mixed, then evenly sprinkle this aromatic filling over the buttered dough. This blend will caramelize beautifully while baking, giving the rolls their signature gooey, spicy center.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a tight log to trap all that cinnamon sugar inside. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 10 even pieces and stand them upright in the buttered baking dish, giving each roll room to puff and spread during baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the rolls are puffed up and have a light, golden top. The kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering aroma that’s hard to resist at this point.

Step 8: Whisk the Maple Glaze

While the rolls bake, mix the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze will add a creamy, tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon rolls’ warm spices.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Once the rolls come out of the oven, let them cool just slightly for about 2 minutes. Then generously drizzle the maple glaze over the top while they’re still warm—this helps it melt slightly and soak into every delicious nook. Serve immediately and enjoy the magic!

How to Serve Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Glaze Recipe

A white plate holds two cinnamon rolls with a shiny white icing on top; one cinnamon roll is whole while the other is split into two halves showing soft, light beige dough layers with dark brown cinnamon swirls inside. The edges of the rolls have a golden-brown color with a soft texture inside. A gold fork lies beside the rolls, all set against a white marbled surface with soft lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh berries can add a pop of color and extra flavor, making every bite feel special and decadent.

Side Dishes

These cinnamon rolls pair beautifully with a simple cup of coffee or a comforting chai latte. If you want to make it a more complete breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit or a creamy yogurt parfait to balance the sweet richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try placing the rolls in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve look, or arrange them on a pretty platter with napkins for a brunch spread. Wrapping a single roll in parchment paper tied with twine also makes a sweet edible gift for friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover rolls tightly covered in an airtight container or wrapped with plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and moist without drying out the delicate crumb.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls right after shaping by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe container. When frozen, they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat the cinnamon rolls gently in a warm oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds. Add a fresh drizzle of glaze or a pat of butter to revive that freshly baked softness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of cottage cheese?

While cream cheese can be delicious, it’s thicker and less tangy than cottage cheese, which might change the dough’s texture and flavor profile. For this recipe, cottage cheese provides the ideal creaminess and moisture to ensure soft rolls.

Do I have to use self-rising flour?

Self-rising flour simplifies the process because it already contains baking powder and salt. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and a pinch of salt to achieve the same effect.

Is the maple glaze optional?

You could definitely skip the glaze, but it really brings everything together with its sweet, tangy creaminess. If you prefer, you can swap maple syrup for honey or make a simple butter glaze instead.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

To make a vegan version, you’d need to replace the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives, such as silken tofu or vegan yogurt, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. The texture might vary slightly but still delicious!

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

Look for a lightly golden top that’s puffed up and feels springy when gently pressed. The edges may be slightly caramelized but not burnt, and the aroma will be warm and inviting—these signs mean your rolls are perfect and ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Cottage Cheese Cinnamon Rolls with Maple Glaze Recipe has been such a joy to make and enjoy, and I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to impress or simply savor a comforting classic with a unique twist. It’s easy, fun, and yields rolls that are fluffy, flavorful, and coated with the kind of glaze that makes mornings brighter. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved favorite in my kitchen.

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