Banana bread and cinnamon rolls are two beloved comfort foods, and when you combine the flavors of both, you get a truly irresistible treat – Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. These soft, fluffy rolls are infused with the sweet richness of ripe bananas and warm cinnamon sugar, topped off with a creamy cream cheese frosting that takes them to another level. Whether you’re looking to impress at brunch, indulge in a comforting breakfast, or simply treat yourself to a sweet snack, these cinnamon rolls are the perfect choice.
Ingredients for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
1. Activate the Yeast
Start by activating the yeast to ensure your dough rises beautifully. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and granulated sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
2. Prepare the Dough
Add the mashed banana, melted butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing as you go, until a soft dough forms. You might need to adjust the amount of flour slightly to achieve the right consistency.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until it forms a smooth paste. If you’re adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, chop them into small pieces and set aside for later.
4. Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down to release any air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle approximately 18×12 inches in size. Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar filling over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover it from edge to edge. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them on top of the filling.
Starting from the long edge of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal the roll. Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices.
5. Second Rise
Place the rolled slices cut-side up into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, making sure they’re close together. Cover with a clean cloth and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
6. Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, place them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
8. Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the cracks. Serve them warm and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Banana Flavor: These rolls have a delicious twist with the sweetness of ripe bananas, giving them a unique, moist texture and natural sweetness.
- Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch: Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or as a comforting breakfast, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
- Frosting Galore: The cream cheese frosting is the perfect creamy topping, adding just the right amount of sweetness and tang to balance the rich flavors of the rolls.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the filling for a bit of crunch.
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Banana Ripeness: For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas. They should be speckled or almost brown, as they will provide the richest flavor and moisture.
- Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic to ensure a light, airy texture. This is essential for achieving the fluffy rolls you want.
- Let the Dough Rise Fully: Don’t rush the rising times. Let the dough rise completely for the best texture and flavor.
- Freezing Option: If you want to make these rolls ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. Just assemble them, place them in a baking dish, cover, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
FAQs
Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. The next morning, just punch it down, shape the rolls, and let them rise for 30 minutes before baking.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that the texture may be a little denser.
Can I make this recipe without the frosting?
Absolutely! These rolls are delicious on their own, but the cream cheese frosting adds a lovely richness. You can skip it for a lighter version if you prefer.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate combination of two classic favorites. Soft, fluffy, and full of banana flavor, they’re a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a special brunch, a sweet breakfast, or just a comforting snack, these cinnamon rolls with their creamy frosting will satisfy your cravings. So, grab some ripe bananas and get baking—these rolls are sure to become a new favorite in your household.