Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

why make this recipe

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the comfort of banana bread with the delightful twist of cinnamon rolls. If you love the authentic taste of warm banana bread but want a new way to enjoy it, this recipe is perfect for you. The soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture and topped with a creamy icing that takes them over the top. These rolls are not only delicious but also make for a lovely treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The scent of bananas and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in, and their taste will keep them coming back for more.

This recipe is also a great way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Instead of throwing them out, you can transform them into something remarkable that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving these at a gathering or enjoying them solo, they are sure to please.

how to make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Making Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls may seem like a daunting task, but it is straightforward. We will break it down step by step for you.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 2 large eggs
• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm milk, 1/4 cup sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This process wakes up the yeast and ensures it will make your rolls rise beautifully.

2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, melted butter, and eggs until well combined. Once mixed, add the frothy yeast mixture. Then, slowly incorporate the flour and salt into the wet ingredients. Knead the dough until combined and smooth.

3. First Rise: Transfer the dough into a greased bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This step is essential as it will give the rolls their fluffiness.

4. Make the Filling: While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well blended. This filling adds a sweet and spicy flavor that complements the banana.

5. Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into an 18×12 inch rectangle. Make sure it is even so that your cinnamon rolls cook uniformly.

6. Fill and Roll: Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the rolled-out dough. Then, starting from one long side, roll the dough into a tight log. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful, spiral layers in your rolls.

7. Slice and Arrange: Once you have a tight log, cut it into about 12 equal slices. Place the slices in a greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space between each roll so they have room to rise.

8. Second Rise: Cover the arranged rolls and let them rise for 30-45 minutes. They should puff up and fill the gaps in the dish.

9. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.

10. Make Icing: While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

11. Ice and Serve: Once your rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the icing over them while they are still warm. This will help the icing melt slightly, allowing it to soak into the rolls for more flavor. Serve your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy the chewy, sweet goodness!

how to serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for serving warm, right out of the oven. You can cut them into individual rolls and place them on a serving plate. For an extra special touch, you might consider:

• Serving with a Side: Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch.
• Adding Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries, to enhance the flavors.
• Creating a Brunch Spread: Incorporate them into a brunch spread, alongside other breakfast favorites such as scrambled eggs, fruit salads, and bacon.

These rolls can also be enjoyed at any time of the day as a snack or dessert. The soft and fluffy texture makes them irresistible!

how to store Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

If you have leftovers—or plan to make them ahead—you can store them properly to maintain freshness.

1. Cooling: First, allow the rolls to cool completely after baking. This prevents condensation from forming, which can lead to sogginess.

2. Wrap and Store: Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container or cover them tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. You can also place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking.

3. Refrigeration: If you plan to keep them for longer than a couple of days, store them in the refrigerator. They should last up to a week in the fridge.

4. Freezing: For even longer storage, you can freeze the rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

5. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

tips to make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

• Make Ahead: If you want to make breakfast easier, prepare the dough the night before. After the first rise, you can cover it and place it in the fridge. The next morning, just roll it out, add the filling, and let it rise again. Then bake!

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your rolls will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best flavor.

• Don’t Rush the Rising: Be patient during the rising stages. This is crucial for making the rolls fluffy and soft. Use a warm spot in your kitchen or turn on the oven for a few minutes and then turn it off, placing the covered dough inside.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts into the filling for an extra flavor twist. You can also try different spices, like nutmeg or allspice, to change things up.

• Adjust the Icing: If you prefer a thinner icing, add a tablespoon of milk to the icing mix. This makes it easier to pour over the rolls.

variation

While the basic Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are fantastic, you can easily make them your own. Here are a couple of ideas:

• Nutty Banana Rolls: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for some crunch. This adds a nice texture and flavor contrast.

• Chocolate Chip Rolls: Mix chocolate chips into the filling for a sweet surprise in every bite. This variation is a hit with anyone who loves chocolate.

• Dulce de Leche: Instead of the brown sugar and cinnamon filling, spread a layer of dulce de leche, then sprinkle a bit of cinnamon before rolling up the dough.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, the rolls may be denser, so consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for the best results.

How do I know when the rolls are done?

The rolls are done baking when they are golden brown on top and feel soft to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of the rolls; if it comes out clean, they are ready.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Follow the same procedure, but keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

Can I skip the icing?

Yes, if you prefer a less sweet option, you can skip the icing altogether. The rolls are delicious on their own and can be served plain or with butter.

How long does it take to make these rolls?

From start to finish, including rising times, you will need about 2 to 3 hours to make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. However, most of that time is waiting for the dough to rise.

With these simple and delicious rolls, breakfast or brunch will be an experience to savor. Enjoy baking, and enjoy every warm, sweet bite of these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls!

Print