Relatively Healthy Cinnamon Buns Recipe

Indulge in guilt-free deliciousness with these surprisingly healthy cinnamon buns! Inspired by a Weight Watchers recipe, these fluffy, flavorful treats are unbelievably moist and aromatic. The perfect weekend breakfast or sweet treat – you won't believe how light and satisfying they are!

Prep Time 90 mins
Cook Time 110 mins
Calories 166.4 kcal
Protein 7g
Rating 4.1 (8 Reviews)
Relatively Healthy Cinnamon Buns 86

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Relatively Healthy Cinnamon Buns

  • Nonfat Milk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • Table Salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • All Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • Dark Corn Syrup
  • Ground Cinnamon
  • Ground Nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/2 cup raisins

How to Make Relatively Healthy Cinnamon Buns

  1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup milk, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Heat over medium-low until lukewarm (approximately 105-115°F).
  2. In a small bowl, sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast over 2 tablespoons of lukewarm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Add the yeast mixture to the warm milk mixture and stir to combine.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk mixture with 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour. Beat until well combined using a hand mixer or wooden spoon.
  5. Gradually add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  6. Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
  7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment.
  8. Let the dough rest for another 10 minutes.
  9. Lightly grease a large bowl with cooking spray. Place the dough in the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  10. Lightly grease a 9-inch round baking pan with cooking spray.
  11. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 12 x 10-inch rectangle.
  12. Lightly spray the dough with cooking spray.
  13. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup light corn syrup, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon orange zest.
  14. Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough.
  15. Sprinkle 1/2 cup raisins evenly over the cinnamon mixture.
  16. Tightly roll the dough into a log, like a jelly roll.
  17. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
  18. Place the buns cut-side up in the prepared baking pan.
  19. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
  20. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  21. Bake for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
  22. Let cool completely in the pan before inverting onto a serving plate.
  23. Enjoy your guilt-free, delicious cinnamon buns!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

8 g

Sugar

40g

Fat

1g

Carbs

11g

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