Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls 🍌🍥

A decadent twist on the classic cinnamon roll, these banana bread-inspired treats bring together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the spiced indulgence of cinnamon rolls, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Here’s a step-by-step detailed guide with tips, variations, and additional serving suggestions.


Ingredients

Dough

  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (2-3 medium bananas, very ripe)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust for sweetness if bananas are very ripe)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (warm, not hot, to activate yeast)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Filling

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to spreadable consistency
  • 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (adjust for spice preference)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted for a smooth texture)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons milk to adjust frosting consistency

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk and a pinch of sugar (from the measured amount).
  2. Sprinkle yeast on top and stir gently. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. If it doesn’t foam, start over with fresh yeast and ensure the milk is properly warmed.

2. Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, granulated sugar, melted butter, and eggs.
  2. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir until combined.
  3. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add small amounts of flour as needed, but avoid overloading with flour to keep the dough soft.

3. First Rise

  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the surface. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap.
  • Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Filling

  • In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until it forms a spreadable paste. Add optional nuts if desired.

5. Roll and Fill the Dough

  1. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
  2. Roll it out into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches, with a thickness of 1/4 inch.
  3. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

6. Roll, Slice, and Arrange

  1. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
  2. Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
  3. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving slight space between each roll for expansion.

7. Second Rise

  • Cover the dish with a towel or plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for 30-45 minutes in a warm spot until puffy and nearly doubled in size.

8. Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.

9. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. While the rolls bake, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. For a thinner consistency, mix in a tablespoon of milk at a time.

10. Frost and Serve

  1. Allow the rolls to cool for 5 minutes before spreading cream cheese frosting generously over the tops.
  2. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Tips and Tricks

  1. Banana Flavor: Use extra-ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
  2. Kneading Dough: Dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Over-kneading can make it dense.
  3. Make Ahead: Prep the rolls and refrigerate overnight after the second rise. Bring them to room temperature before baking.
  4. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Variations

  1. Chocolate Banana Rolls: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a sweeter treat.
  2. Nutty Delight: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the filling before rolling the dough.
  3. Caramel Drizzle: Replace the frosting with a caramel sauce drizzle for a decadent option.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Carbohydrates: ~47g
  • Protein: ~6g
  • Fat: ~12g

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast.
  • Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert option.

Enjoy these warm, banana-infused cinnamon rolls as a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods! 🍌✨

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