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Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 25 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8–10 rolls
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the soft, moist texture of banana bread with the classic swirl of cinnamon rolls. Perfectly tender dough is filled with a sweet cinnamon and banana mixture, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Ideal for a comforting breakfast or brunch treat.


Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup mashed ripe banana
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 to 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon milk (as needed for consistency)


Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed banana, granulated sugar, egg, melted butter, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir well. Gradually add flour, starting with 2 cups, mixing until a soft dough forms. Adjust with additional flour if necessary.
  3. Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix mashed banana, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined.
  6. Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 9×14 inch rectangle. Spread the banana-cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
  7. Form Rolls: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 8 to 10 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9-inch round or square baking dish, cut side up.
  8. Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
  9. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls finish their rise.
  10. Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls for 22 to 26 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  11. Prepare Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust milk to achieve desired frosting consistency.
  12. Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls once they come out of the oven. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • These rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the filling for extra richness and texture.
  • Reheat leftovers briefly in the microwave to restore a soft, gooey texture.