Effortlessly Delicious: The Ultimate Guide to Two-Ingredient Dough Cinnamon Rolls (WW Friendly!)
There’s something truly irresistible about warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, especially on a crisp morning. They evoke feelings of comfort and indulgence, but often come with a lengthy ingredient list and a complicated process. What if we told you there’s a simpler, quicker, and even lighter way to enjoy this beloved classic? Enter the revolutionary two-ingredient dough cinnamon rolls! This recipe transforms your breakfast routine, offering lightened-up cinnamon rolls that are just as delicious and satisfying as their traditional counterparts, all with minimal effort. You’ll be amazed at how easily these come together and how wonderfully they taste. They’re so simple and quick to prepare, you might find yourself eating more than one (or three, like I happily did the other morning!). Plus, for those following Weight Watchers (WW), each roll is incredibly low in points, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
The secret lies in the magical two-ingredient dough, a culinary game-changer that has taken the internet by storm. If you haven’t yet experienced the versatility and ease of this fantastic dough, now is the perfect time to jump on board! It’s an incredibly simple base that can be used for a multitude of recipes, from pizza crusts to bagels, and now, your new favorite cinnamon rolls. This adaptability makes it a must-have in your recipe repertoire, opening up a world of culinary possibilities that are both healthy and delicious. It’s particularly popular among those looking for lighter options, as it inherently reduces fat and calories compared to traditional butter- and oil-based doughs. Get ready to bake a batch of warm, fragrant, and perfectly glazed cinnamon rolls that will become a staple in your kitchen.
The Wonders of Two-Ingredient Dough: Simplicity Meets Versatility
Before we dive into the delicious details of making these cinnamon rolls, let’s talk about the star of the show: two-ingredient dough. This ingenious dough requires just two components – self-rising flour and plain Greek yogurt. The magic happens when the leavening agents in the self-rising flour react with the acidity of the Greek yogurt, creating a wonderfully pliable and easy-to-work-with dough. This means no yeast, no lengthy proofing time, and significantly less fuss than traditional dough recipes. It’s perfect for busy mornings or when you’re craving a homemade treat without all the usual effort. The simplicity of this dough is what makes it so appealing to home bakers of all skill levels.
Beyond its simplicity, two-ingredient dough is incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic base for a wide array of baked goods, from savory to sweet. Imagine whipping up a quick pizza crust, fresh bagels, or even delicate pie crusts with just these two ingredients. This adaptability makes it a must-have in your recipe repertoire, opening up a world of culinary possibilities that are both healthy and delicious. By swapping out heavier ingredients for yogurt, you get a lighter product without sacrificing taste or texture. This dough is a true testament to how simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results.
Ingredients for Your Perfect Two-Ingredient Dough Cinnamon Rolls
Crafting these delectable cinnamon rolls requires only a handful of readily available ingredients. We’ll break down what you need for the dough, the irresistible cinnamon-sugar filling, and the simple yet essential glaze, ensuring you have everything on hand for success.
- Self-Rising Flour: This is crucial for the dough’s rise and light texture. The pre-mixed leavening agents (baking powder and salt) in self-rising flour react with the Greek yogurt to create a fluffy dough. If you don’t have self-rising flour, don’t worry! You can easily make your own by combining all-purpose flour with a bit of baking powder and a pinch of salt. For every cup of all-purpose flour, simply add 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these together thoroughly before adding the yogurt.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: The second hero ingredient in our two-ingredient dough. It’s vital to use *plain* (unflavored) and *Greek* (thick) yogurt. Regular yogurt is too thin and contains excess water, which will not yield the same firm, workable dough texture required for rolling and shaping. The thickness and protein content of Greek yogurt provide the necessary structure and moisture for a perfect dough. Non-fat varieties are excellent for keeping these rolls light and WW-friendly.
- Brown Sugar: This provides the classic caramel-like sweetness and a moist texture to our cinnamon filling. Brown sugar’s molasses content adds a deeper, richer flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully. If you’re looking to further reduce calories or manage blood sugar, especially if tracking Weight Watchers points, you can opt for a sugar substitute. Products like a Splenda brown sugar blend or similar alternatives work wonderfully without compromising the flavor.
- Cinnamon: The star spice of any cinnamon roll! Use good quality ground cinnamon for the most aromatic and flavorful results. Fresh cinnamon makes a significant difference, infusing the rolls with that warm, inviting spice we all love.
- Icing Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): For that classic, smooth, and sweet glaze that takes these rolls to the next level. Icing sugar dissolves easily, creating a silky-smooth finish.
- Milk: A small amount of milk (any kind works, low-fat or skim is fine for WW purposes) is used to thin down the icing sugar into a pourable, brushable glaze. Start with a small amount and add more gradually to achieve your desired consistency.
How to Make Two-Ingredient Dough Cinnamon Rolls: A Simple Guide to Breakfast Perfection
Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of delightful, lightened-up cinnamon rolls. The process is straightforward, even for novice bakers, and yields fantastic results every time, ensuring a warm, comforting treat is never far away.
- Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by preheating your oven to a precise 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper. This crucial step prevents the rolls from sticking and makes for incredibly easy cleanup. For an extra layer of assurance, I also recommend spraying the parchment paper lightly with a non-stick cooking spray. This small preparation step ensures your precious cinnamon rolls lift off the tray effortlessly after baking.
- Create the Dough: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and plain Greek yogurt. Use a sturdy spoon or your clean hands to mix them together. Initially, the mixture will look crumbly and shaggy. Continue mixing until a cohesive dough begins to form. If you’re using all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt as a substitute, ensure these dry ingredients are thoroughly whisked together before adding the yogurt to guarantee even distribution of the leavening.
- Knead and Roll the Dough: Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a lightly floured flat surface. Knead the dough gently but firmly, incorporating a little extra flour as needed, until it’s no longer overly sticky but still feels slightly tacky and pliable. The goal is a smooth, elastic dough that’s easy to handle. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangular shape. Aim for dimensions of approximately 12 inches by 10 inches (30cm x 25cm); this size allows for optimal spiral formation and nicely sized individual rolls.
- Add the Flavorful Filling: In a separate small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon until they are thoroughly combined. This creates the aromatic and sweet filling for your rolls. Evenly sprinkle this irresistible mixture over the entire surface of your rolled-out dough, making sure to leave a small, clear border (about half an inch) along one of the long edges. This border will help seal the roll later. Distribute the filling as evenly as possible to ensure every bite of your cinnamon roll is packed with sweet, spicy goodness.
- Shape and Cut the Rolls: Carefully and tightly roll the dough up from the long edge (the one opposite the clear border) into a neat log. Once rolled, pinch the seam closed to secure it. To ensure even pieces, here’s a helpful trick: first, cut the entire log precisely in half down the middle. This gives you two equal halves. Then, cut each half into six equal pieces. This method results in a total of 12 uniformly sized cinnamon rolls, leading to more consistent baking and a professional appearance.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the cut cinnamon roll pieces onto your prepared baking sheet, arranging them spiral-side up and leaving a little space between each roll for expansion. Bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 18 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the rolls are cooked through. Baking times can vary slightly, so keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overbrowning. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
- Glaze and Serve: While the cinnamon rolls are still warm from the oven – this is key for the glaze to melt perfectly – prepare the simple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the icing sugar and a small amount of milk (start with 1-2 teaspoons and add more if needed) until it forms a smooth, pourable, yet thick consistency. Brush or drizzle this luscious glaze generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. The warmth of the rolls will help the glaze melt slightly and adhere beautifully. These instructions yield 12 rolls. Enjoy them immediately for the absolute best experience!
Mastering Two-Ingredient Dough: Essential Tips for Success
While this dough is incredibly forgiving and simple, a few key tips can help you achieve perfect results every time, ensuring your cinnamon rolls (and any other two-ingredient dough creations) are a resounding success and you avoid common pitfalls.
- Achieving the Right Dough Consistency: The ideal two-ingredient dough should be tacky to the touch, meaning it feels slightly sticky but doesn’t leave much residue on your hands. It should not be overly sticky and unmanageable. If the dough clings excessively to your hands during kneading, gradually add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable. While many recipes suggest a precise 1:1 ratio of flour to yogurt, I often find that using a touch more flour than yogurt (e.g., 1 cup flour + a few extra tablespoons to 1 cup yogurt) results in a less sticky, easier-to-handle dough without compromising its soft, pleasant texture. Trust your instincts here – the dough should feel smooth, elastic, and easy to roll.
- The Importance of Greek Yogurt: This cannot be stressed enough: do not substitute regular yogurt for Greek yogurt. Regular yogurt contains a significantly higher water content and is much thinner in consistency. Using it will lead to a very wet, loose, and unworkable dough that won’t hold its shape. Greek yogurt, particularly the non-fat plain variety, provides the necessary thickness and higher protein content to create a firm yet pliable dough structure that is essential for this recipe’s success. This ingredient choice is non-negotiable for achieving the correct dough texture.
- Flour Your Surface and Tools Generously: Always generously flour your work surface (a countertop or large cutting board works well) before rolling out the dough. This prevents sticking and allows for smooth, even rolling, ensuring the dough doesn’t tear. Additionally, dust your rolling pin with a little flour. This simple step makes a significant difference in how easily you can manipulate the dough without it tearing or becoming frustratingly sticky. Have extra flour nearby for dusting as needed during the rolling process.
- Prep Ahead Option for Busy Schedules: One of the fantastic advantages of two-ingredient dough is its flexibility, making it perfect for meal prep or busy mornings. You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to come back to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling and shaping. This is a great time-saver that allows you to enjoy fresh cinnamon rolls with even less fuss on a weekday morning.
- Even Cutting for Uniform Rolls: When it comes time to cut your rolled and filled dough log into individual cinnamon rolls, here’s a professional trick that ensures consistency: first, use a sharp knife or even unflavored dental floss (for very clean cuts) to cut the entire log precisely in the middle. This gives you two equal halves. Then, cut each half into six equal pieces. This method ensures that all your cinnamon rolls are roughly the same size, leading to more even baking, a consistent presentation, and no more fighting over the biggest roll!
For those mindful of sugar intake or following specific dietary guidelines, remember that you can easily replace the brown sugar in the filling with a suitable sugar substitute. Products like a Splenda brown sugar blend or similar alternatives work wonderfully without compromising the flavor or texture of the filling. This is especially useful if you are tracking Weight Watchers points, as it can significantly impact the overall point value. When making such substitutions for WW, it’s always best practice to build the recipe directly within your WW app to get the most accurate point value based on your specific plan and chosen ingredients. This ensures you’re staying perfectly on track with your health and wellness goals.
As highlighted in our expert tips, when you are ready to cut the cinnamon rolls, always aim for that middle cut first. This seemingly small detail makes a significant difference in achieving uniform rolls, which not only look aesthetically pleasing but also bake more consistently. By cutting the log in half before slicing into individual rolls, you mitigate the common issue of having one end of the log yield smaller, less uniform rolls. This leads to a batch of perfectly proportioned treats every single time, ensuring even baking and happy eaters.
Beyond Cinnamon Rolls: The Incredible Versatility of Two-Ingredient Dough
The beauty of mastering two-ingredient dough doesn’t stop at cinnamon rolls. This incredibly adaptable dough is a fantastic base for an astonishing variety of recipes, offering endless possibilities for quick, easy, and often healthier homemade treats. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this dough for countless culinary adventures, transforming simple ingredients into delicious meals and snacks.
- Pizza Crust: Forget about store-bought crusts that are often loaded with unnecessary ingredients. This dough makes an incredibly quick and delicious pizza base that bakes up with a satisfying chew and just the right amount of crispness. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, allowing you to customize your own pizzas with your favorite toppings in minutes. Here is one of my favorite recipes for a delicious chicken & spinach alfredo pizza using the two-ingredient dough.
- Pie Crust: Surprisingly, this versatile dough can also be transformed into a simple yet effective pie crust. It’s an excellent option for fruit pies, savory quiches, or tarts when you need a lighter, faster alternative to traditional butter-heavy crusts. It holds its shape well and provides a lovely base. I once made this amazing apple pie using the two-ingredient dough, and it was a huge hit among friends and family!
- Bagels: Craving fresh, homemade bagels but intimidated by the traditional process? This dough can deliver! Shape it into classic bagel rings, give them a quick boil in water (with a touch of baking soda for a chewy crust), then bake for wonderfully chewy, golden bagels. Top with everything bagel seasoning, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or simply enjoy them plain.
- Breadsticks: For a quick and delightful appetizer or side, roll the dough into thin ropes or strips. Brush them with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic powder, dried herbs, and a dusting of grated parmesan cheese, then bake for quick and tasty breadsticks perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or enjoying on their own.
- Pretzel Bites: These are a fun and customizable snack! Form the dough into small, bite-sized pieces, then give them a quick dip in a baking soda bath before baking until golden brown. Sprinkle with coarse salt for authentic pretzel bites, or cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist. They are excellent for parties or a quick savory treat.
- Biscuits/Rolls: You can easily shape the dough into fluffy biscuits or soft dinner rolls. They’re soft, light, and a wonderful accompaniment to any meal, whether it’s soup, chili, or a holiday dinner. Serve them warm with a pat of butter, jam, or your favorite spread. They offer a comforting, homemade touch with minimal effort.
- Savory Applications: Beyond these, you can also experiment and use it in recipes that might typically call for canned biscuits, like some of my famous bubble-up dishes or even for savory pinwheels filled with cheese, herbs, and deli meats. The possibilities truly are endless, making this dough a versatile and invaluable staple for any home cook looking to simplify their baking and cooking.
Understanding Weight Watchers (WW) Points for Your Cinnamon Rolls
One of the most appealing aspects of these two-ingredient dough cinnamon rolls is their incredible friendliness to those following Weight Watchers (WW). By utilizing simple, low-point ingredients, we’ve created a delicious treat that fits easily into a balanced eating plan without feeling like a compromise. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the point values for the core ingredients and the final product, based on the WW app recipe creator. This transparency helps you understand how each component contributes to the overall point value and how you can manage it within your daily allowance.
- Self-rising flour: Approximately 13 points (for the specified quantity in the recipe)
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt: 0 points (a fantastic ZeroPoint food!)
- Brown sugar: Approximately 16 points (for the specified quantity in the recipe)
- Cinnamon: 0 points
- Icing sugar or confectioners’ sugar: Approximately 4 points (for the specified quantity for the glaze)
- Low-fat milk: 0 points (another great ZeroPoint choice)
Based on these ingredient point values and a yield of 12 rolls, each individual cinnamon roll comes in at approximately 3 points according to the WW app recipe creator. This makes them an excellent choice for a satisfying breakfast, a delightful dessert, or a comforting snack that won’t derail your healthy eating goals. It’s a smart way to enjoy a classic indulgence.
If you’re using an older version of WW or have a personalized plan, here are some estimated point values for your reference:
- Personal Points: Typically 2-3 points per roll, depending on your individual ZeroPoint foods list and unique customized plan.
- Smart Points (Blue & Purple Plans): Approximately 2 points per roll, calculated using the WW recipe builder, which factors in ZeroPoint foods.
- Smart Points (Green Plan): Approximately 3 points per roll, calculated using the WW recipe builder, as the Green plan has a more limited ZeroPoint foods list.
- Points Plus: Around 2 points per roll, calculated with a PP calculator from previous WW programs.
Always remember that specific point values can vary slightly based on the exact brands, fat content, and types of ingredients you use. For the most accurate and up-to-date calculation tailored to your personal plan, we highly recommend inputting the recipe details and your specific ingredients into your official Weight Watchers app. This ensures you have the most precise information for your dietary tracking.
Two-Ingredient Dough Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 cup self-raising flour
- 1 cup non fat plain greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp cinnamon
- 2 Tbsp icing sugar, confectionary sugar
- 2 tsp milk
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375F, line a baking sheet with some parchment paper, I also spray the paper lightly.
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In a bowl mix your yogurt and flour together *If you don’t have self-raising flour you can use all-purpose and add a little baking powder and salt to it
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Mix your dough till you can form a ball, it will be slightly sticky, sprinkle some flour on a flat surface and keep kneading the dough in some extra flour till it’s not sticky. Roll the dough out *mine was rolled out to approx 12″ by 10″
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In a small bowl mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle over the dough. Roll your dough up and cut into 2 equal pieces, then cut each piece into 6 giving you 12 rolls.
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Place cut pieces onto the baking sheet and bake in the oven for 18 minutes or until they look golden brown on top.
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In a small bowl mix the icing sugar with a little milk and brush glaze onto warm cinnamon rolls, makes 12 rolls. Store in a sealed container.
Notes
If you’re using an older version of WW, check out these points below.
Personal Points- 2-3 depending on your 0PP foods
Smart points- blue & purple- 2 using WW recipe builder
Smart points- green- 3 using WW recipe builder
Points plus- 2 using PP calculator
Nutritional info per roll… Calories 70…Fat 0.1g…Sat fat 0g…Carbs 14.2g…Fiber 0.3g…Sugar 7.1g…Protein 2.9g using My Fitness Pal *note- this includes any 0SP foods
Additional Info
Storage and Reheating Tips for Your Cinnamon Rolls
While these two-ingredient dough cinnamon rolls are undeniably best enjoyed fresh from the oven, still warm with melting glaze, we understand that sometimes you might have leftovers or want to prepare them ahead of time. It’s important to note that the two-ingredient dough, due to its unique composition and lack of yeast, does not hold up as well as traditional yeast-based doughs after a day or two at room temperature. They tend to lose their soft texture and can become a bit dense if left out too long. However, with the right storage and reheating methods, you can still enjoy them!
- Short-Term Storage (Within 24 Hours): If you plan to enjoy any leftover cinnamon rolls within a day of baking, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain as much freshness and moisture as possible, but be aware that their texture will likely change slightly, becoming a bit firmer.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: For longer storage beyond 24 hours, freezing is your best bet to preserve their quality. Allow the freshly baked and glazed cinnamon rolls to cool completely to room temperature. Then, for best results, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are solid (this prevents them from sticking together). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely frozen for up to 1-2 months.
- Reheating for Freshness: The best way to revive frozen or day-old cinnamon rolls and bring them back to their delicious glory is by reheating them. After defrosting them in the refrigerator overnight (if frozen), I highly recommend using an air fryer. A quick reheat in the air fryer at around 300°F (150°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside, will restore much of their original warmth and softness. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven at the same temperature, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out, for about 10-15 minutes. This gentle reheating process brings back that lovely warmth and makes them taste almost as good as fresh! Avoid microwaving, as it can make them tough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Two-Ingredient Dough Cinnamon Rolls
Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your two-ingredient dough cinnamon roll experience is smooth and successful.
- Q: Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
- A: No, it is crucial to use plain Greek yogurt. Regular yogurt is much thinner and has a significantly higher water content, which will result in a very sticky, wet, and ultimately unworkable dough. The thick consistency of Greek yogurt is key to the dough’s structure and pliability.
- Q: What if I don’t have self-rising flour?
- A: No problem! You can easily make your own self-rising flour. For every cup of all-purpose flour, simply mix in 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly before adding the Greek yogurt.
- Q: Can I prepare the dough in advance?
- A: Yes, you certainly can! You can mix the two-ingredient dough and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to proceed with the recipe, just let the dough come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling and shaping.
- Q: How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
- A: For the best taste and texture, consume them on the day they are baked. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage (up to 1-2 months), freeze them. Reheating is highly recommended for optimal taste and softness.
- Q: Can I add other ingredients to the cinnamon filling?
- A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize your filling to your liking. You could add finely chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work wonderfully), a sprinkle of fresh orange or lemon zest for a bright note, or even a dash of ground cardamom or nutmeg for a different layer of spice.
- Q: Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions beyond Weight Watchers?
- A: This recipe is inherently lower in fat and calories than traditional cinnamon rolls, making it excellent for Weight Watchers and general healthier eating. For gluten-free options, you would need to experiment with a gluten-free self-rising flour blend, as results can vary. Always check ingredient labels carefully for specific dietary needs, especially for allergies.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Cinnamon Roll Recipe
These two-ingredient dough cinnamon rolls truly are a revelation in the world of home baking. They effortlessly prove that you don’t need a long list of complex ingredients or hours spent in the kitchen to create a delicious, comforting, and utterly satisfying treat. With their incredibly simple preparation, lighter nutritional profile, and undeniably fantastic flavor, they are destined to become your new go-to recipe for a delightful breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a quick and easy option or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is remarkably approachable and consistently delivers mouth-watering results. The magic of two-ingredient dough is not just in its simplicity but also in its ability to produce a tender, flavorful base that perfectly complements the warm, spicy cinnamon filling and sweet glaze.
So, gather your self-rising flour and plain Greek yogurt, and prepare to be amazed by the sheer convenience and deliciousness of this two-ingredient dough. Enjoy the process of creating these wonderful treats, savor the incredible aroma that will fill your home, and most importantly, delight in every single bite of these wonderfully easy and lightened-up cinnamon rolls. Happy baking!