Description
Delight in these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect fusion of moist banana bread and classic cinnamon rolls. Soft and fluffy rolls are layered with a cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with creamy cream cheese icing, making them a perfect breakfast or dessert treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough 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
Filling Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the surface and let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, remaining sugar, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.
- Add yeast and flour: Add activated yeast mixture to the banana mixture and stir. Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-2 hours.
- Make the Filling: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough: Punch down risen dough and roll into a large rectangle on a floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Fill and Roll: Spread filling evenly over dough, leaving a border. Roll dough tightly into a log starting from one long edge.
- Slice and Arrange: Cut rolled dough into 12 pieces. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each.
- Second Rise: Cover rolls and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, until puffed and nearly doubled.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Cream Cheese Icing: While rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Ice and Serve: Remove rolls from oven, cool slightly. Spread icing over warm rolls and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is warmed to about 110°F for optimal yeast activation—too hot can kill the yeast.
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness in the dough.
- If dough is too sticky after initial mixing, add a little more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Covering the dough and rolls during rising helps retain moisture for a softer texture.
- For softer rolls, brush tops with melted butter right after baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently before serving.
