Description
These zucchini cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on a classic treat. The zucchini adds moisture and a subtle earthiness, perfectly complementing the sweet cinnamon filling. Topped with a creamy cream cheese glaze, they’re irresistible.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup finely grated zucchini, excess moisture squeezed out
- For the filling: 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tbsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- For the glaze: 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 2-3 tbsp milk
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar; let stand 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, yeast mixture, and grated zucchini. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down dough. Roll out into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Starting from the long side, roll tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls. Place in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While rolls bake, make glaze: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk; beat until creamy. Spread over warm rolls. Serve warm.
Notes
- Squeeze grated zucchini well to remove excess liquid; this prevents soggy rolls.
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 tsp nutmeg or cardamom to the filling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: PT30M
- Cook Time: PT25M
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg