Description: Indulge in the delightful fusion of classic cinnamon rolls and comforting banana bread. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the soft, fluffy texture of a perfectly risen roll with the sweet, comforting flavor of ripe bananas, swirled with a rich cinnamon filling, and topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a special breakf
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (about 105-115°F) 🥛: This activates the yeast and provides the liquid base for our dough.
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet) 🍞: The key ingredient for a light and airy texture, making the rolls rise beautifully.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar 🍬: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter 🧈: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 medium ripe banana, mashed 🍌: The star of the show! Adds moisture, sweetness, and that signature banana flavor. Ensure it’s ripe for the best results.
- 1 large egg 🥚: Binds the dough together and adds richness and structure.
- 1/2 tsp salt 🧂: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 3 ½ – 4 cups all-purpose flour 🌾: The foundation of our dough. Start with 3 ½ cups and add more gradually until the dough is soft but not sticky.
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 🧈: Creates a luscious, buttery layer within the rolls.
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 🍯: Adds a warm, caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the filling.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon 🌰: The essential spice for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional) ✨: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the cinnamon filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀: Provides the tangy, creamy base for our frosting. Make sure it’s softened to prevent lumps.
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened 🧈: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, spreadable frosting.
- 1 cup powdered sugar 🍥: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 🌼: Enhances the flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to desired consistency) 🥛: Adjusts the frosting to the perfect spreadable consistency.
Preparation:
Step 1: Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, gently warm the milk to about 105-115°F (too hot and you’ll kill the yeast!). Add the sugar and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This step is crucial to ensure your yeast is alive and active, which will help the rolls rise properly. The foam is a sign that the yeast is feeding on the sugar and producing carbon dioxide. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old or inactive. It’s best to start again with fresh yeast.
Step 2: Make the Dough:
Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add the melted butter, mashed banana, egg, and salt to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Start with 3 ½ cups, and if the dough is still very sticky, add the remaining flour ¼ cup at a time until the dough comes together and is soft but not sticky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step is important for developing the gluten in the flour, which gives the rolls their structure and chewiness. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling:
While the dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon filling. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Mix everything together until it is well combined and forms a paste. The butter should be soft enough to easily mix with the other ingredients but not melted. This mixture will be spread over the dough to create the delicious cinnamon swirls in the rolls.
Step 4: Assemble and Slice the Rolls:
Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border at the top edge.
Starting from the bottom edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it tightly. Using a sharp, serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls, cut-side up, in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up slightly.
Step 5: Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish with the rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of one of the rolls. If it comes out clean, the rolls are ready.
Step 6: Frost and Serve:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk, adding more milk as needed until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before frosting. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. The warmth of the rolls will help the frosting melt slightly, creating a delicious, gooey glaze. Serve the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods. The combination of the soft, fluffy cinnamon roll texture with the sweet, comforting flavor of banana bread creates a unique and irresistible treat. The rich cinnamon filling and tangy cream cheese frosting complement the banana flavor perfectly. They are incredibly versatile, perfect for a weekend brunch, a special breakfast, or a cozy dessert. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is simply divine, and the smiles on the faces of those who enjoy them will make all the effort worthwhile. This recipe is relatively easy to follow, and the results are guaranteed to impress.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm, straight from the oven, with a generous dollop of cream cheese frosting.
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor.
- Serve with fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas, berries, or peaches, for a refreshing complement.
- For a more decadent treat, drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate syrup.
- These rolls are also delicious slightly warmed the next day.
Tips:
- Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise.
- Don’t overheat the milk, or it will kill the yeast.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Knead the dough well to develop the gluten and create a smooth, elastic texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for optimal results.
- Don’t overbake the rolls, or they will be dry.
- Adjust the amount of milk in the frosting to achieve your desired consistency.
- For easier slicing, use unflavored dental floss instead of a knife.
- These rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Cook Time:
20-25 minutes
Total Time:
2 hours 15 minutes (including rise time)
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per roll, without frosting)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 6-8g
- Sodium: 200-250mg
(These values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion:
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and unique treat that combines the best of both worlds. The soft, fluffy texture, sweet banana flavor, and rich cinnamon filling, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting, create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast, a comforting dessert, or a delicious snack, these rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls! They are a surefire way to bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to the faces of everyone who tastes them. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share the love!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them. Frozen bananas tend to be softer and more moist than fresh bananas, so you may need to adjust the amount of flour in the dough accordingly. Start with the lesser amount of flour (3 ½ cups) and add more gradually until the dough is soft but not sticky.
- Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can make these rolls ahead of time. You have a couple of options:
- Refrigerate the Dough: After kneading the dough, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake the rolls, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out and proceeding with the recipe.
- Freeze the Unbaked Rolls: After slicing the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, you can freeze them unbaked. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake the rolls, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then let them rise in a warm place for about 1 hour before baking as directed.
- Can I use a different type of flour? While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of flour. Bread flour will give the rolls a chewier texture. You can also use a combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour for a slightly denser and nuttier flavor. If using whole wheat flour, start with a smaller amount (about 1 cup) and increase as needed, as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid.
- Can I make these rolls without a stand mixer? Yes, you can definitely make these rolls without a stand mixer. You can mix the dough by hand in a large bowl. Just make sure to knead the dough for a few extra minutes to develop the gluten. Kneading the dough well is essential for achieving a light and airy texture.
- What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting? If you don’t have cream cheese on hand or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt. Mascarpone cheese will give the frosting a richer and smoother texture, while Greek yogurt will make it tangier and slightly lighter. You may need to adjust the amount of powdered sugar and milk depending on the consistency of the substitute.
