Cinnamon rolls are a beloved classic, especially around the holidays, and this carnivore-inspired version lets you indulge without compromising your dietary goals. These rolls are made without traditional flour or sugar, relying instead on creative ingredients like pork panko and mozzarella cheese for structure.
Perfect for a cozy Christmas morning or anytime you’re craving a warm, sweet treat, this recipe delivers all the satisfaction of a traditional cinnamon roll in a low-carb, high-protein package.
How to Make Carnivore Cinnamon Rolls
- Yield: 8 rolls (8 servings)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 12 ounces)
- 2 ounces (¼ cup) cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 ⅓ cups (135 grams) pork panko
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- ¼ cup (½ stick) salted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnish
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (½ stick) salted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- To prepare the dough, combine all the dough ingredients in a large microwave-safe bowl. Mix well.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring at 30-second intervals, until the cheese is fully melted.
- Stir vigorously until a cohesive dough forms. As the dough cools slightly, it will firm up. You can knead it by hand if necessary.
- Place the dough on a large piece of parchment paper (at least 16 inches long). Using your hands, press and shape the dough into a rectangle about 12 by 15 inches. Let it cool.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, ensuring the entire surface is covered, including the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the butter.
- Starting from the longer side, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 8 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a 9-inch cake pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by mixing all frosting ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once the rolls are done, spread the frosting over them while warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Dough consistency: If the dough feels sticky while shaping, chill it for a few minutes before working with it again.
- Flavor adjustments: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for a richer flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the texture of the rolls and frosting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This carnivore-friendly take on cinnamon rolls is proof that you can enjoy sweet, comforting classics even on a low-carb or keto lifestyle. The pork panko and cheese-based dough create a chewy, satisfying base, while the buttery cinnamon filling and creamy frosting complete the experience. Whether served fresh from the oven or warmed up later, these rolls are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying true to your dietary goals.
Carnivore Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese about 12 ounces
- 8 ounces ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs whisked
- 1 ⅓ cups 135 grams pork panko
- 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 stick salted butter softened
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon plus extra for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- To prepare the dough, combine all the dough ingredients in a large microwave-safe bowl. Mix well.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring at 30-second intervals, until the cheese is fully melted.
- Stir vigorously until a cohesive dough forms. As the dough cools slightly, it will firm up. You can knead it by hand if necessary.
- Place the dough on a large piece of parchment paper (at least 16 inches long). Using your hands, press and shape the dough into a rectangle about 12 by 15 inches. Let it cool.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, ensuring the entire surface is covered, including the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the butter.
- Starting from the longer side, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 8 equal pieces.
- Arrange the rolls cut-side up in a 9-inch cake pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by mixing all frosting ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
- Once the rolls are done, spread the frosting over them while warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and serve immediately.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.