Banana Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of banana bread and the indulgence of cinnamon rolls, then these Banana Cinnamon Rolls are just what you need! They are soft, fluffy, and filled with sweet banana goodness. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Plus, the creamy icing on top makes each bite simply irresistible!

These rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again for brunches, dessert, or even an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet rolls; they make everyone smile!
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough the night before and bake fresh rolls in the morning.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of banana and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, these rolls fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that making these Banana Cinnamon Rolls requires simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating that soft dough and delicious filling.

For the Dough

• 3/4 cup Milk (warmed to 110℉)
• 2 1/4 tsp Active dry yeast (11 grams (1 whole packet))
• 1 Large egg (room temperature and lightly beaten)
• 2/3 cup Mashed bananas (mash 2 bananas and then measure)
• 5 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/4 cup White granulated sugar
• 10 TBSP Unsalted butter (room temperature and cubed)

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup Brown sugar (packed light or dark)
• 1 TBSP Ground cinnamon
• 2 Bananas (sliced thinly)

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 oz Cream cheese (room temperature)
• 4 TBSP Unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup Powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract

Variations

This Banana Cinnamon Roll recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try out:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Chocolate twist: Sprinkle chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent touch.
• Fruity addition: Mix in blueberries or diced apples with the banana slices for added flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Banana Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by warming your milk to about 110℉. Once it’s warm, stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial because it wakes up the yeast so that your dough rises beautifully!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine your mashed bananas, beaten egg, sugar, salt, and softened butter. Next, pour in your yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour while mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead it gently on a floured surface until smooth. This kneading helps develop gluten which gives your rolls their delightful texture!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size—about 1 hour. Patience is key here; this rising time allows your rolls to become fluffy.

Step 4: Roll Out & Fill

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick on a floured surface. Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar mixed with cinnamon and layer on those lovely banana slices.

Step 5: Roll & Slice

Starting from one edge of the rectangle, roll up tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp knife. Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover your rolled cinnamon rolls again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise ensures they’re light and airy once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350℉ while you wait. Bake those beautiful rolls for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 8: Make Cream Cheese Icing

While they bake, whip up your cream cheese icing by mixing together softened cream cheese, butter, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Ice & Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool slightly before drizzling with icing. Serve warm and watch everyone enjoy these amazing Banana Cinnamon Rolls!

Pro Tips for Making Banana Cinnamon Rolls

Making these banana cinnamon rolls is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your dough will be. Aim for bananas that are spotty and soft to get the best taste.

• Don’t rush the rising process: Allow the dough ample time to rise until it has doubled in size. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls that are light and airy.

• Be generous with the filling: Spread the filling evenly and don’t skimp on the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. This will create those irresistible gooey layers of flavor in each bite.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your rolls a few minutes before the suggested cooking time to prevent over-baking. They should be golden brown when done.

• Serve warm for maximum enjoyment: These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm. The cream cheese icing melts beautifully into the rolls, making each bite heavenly!

How to Serve Banana Cinnamon Rolls

These banana cinnamon rolls are not only a treat for your taste buds but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present them for breakfast or any special occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped walnuts or pecans: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of your rolls for added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fresh banana slices: Add a few thinly sliced bananas on top just before serving to enhance their fruity goodness.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon adds a beautiful touch and emphasizes the delicious flavors of your rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and adds a healthy element to your meal.
• Greek yogurt with honey: Serve a side of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey for a tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with sweet rolls.
• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to your breakfast spread, balancing out the sweetness of the rolls.
• Coffee or herbal tea: A warm cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea makes for a cozy beverage accompaniment, enhancing the overall experience of enjoying these delightful treats.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and make these scrumptious banana cinnamon rolls! Enjoy every moment in your kitchen as you create this deliciously sweet masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Banana Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for a delightful breakfast or dessert whenever you need it. Here’s how to keep your delicious rolls fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the banana cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply take out the desired number of rolls and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these scrumptious Banana Cinnamon Rolls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for banana cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. However, it may yield denser rolls, so consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat for a lighter texture.

How do I know when my banana cinnamon rolls are done baking?

The banana cinnamon rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. You can also check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I add nuts to my banana cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition to enhance the flavor and texture of your banana cinnamon rolls. Just sprinkle them into the filling before rolling up the dough.

What makes these banana cinnamon rolls different from regular cinnamon rolls?

These banana cinnamon rolls combine the best of both worlds by using banana-flavored dough and adding sliced bananas within the filling. It’s like enjoying soft cinnamon bread with a twist of banana goodness!

How should I store leftover cream cheese icing?

Leftover cream cheese icing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using it again on your freshly baked rolls!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Banana Cinnamon Rolls! They bring together the comforting flavors of banana bread and sweet cinnamon, creating a treat that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or saving some for later, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!