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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix mashed banana, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until well combined.
- 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.
- 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.
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls finish their rise.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the rolls for 22 to 26 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- 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.
- 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.