These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a twist on a classic treat, combining soft, fluffy dough with sweet banana flavor and sticky cinnamon goodness. Topped with creamy frosting, they are a dream!
I love making these rolls for breakfast! The blend of bananas and cinnamon makes my kitchen smell amazing. Plus, who can resist that delicious cream cheese frosting? It’s a total winner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are crucial here for their natural sweetness and moistness in the dough. If you don’t have ripe ones, you can speed up the ripening by placing them in a paper bag for a day.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for a soft roll texture. For a healthier option, you could use whole wheat flour, but be aware that it may change the texture slightly, making the rolls denser.
Yeast: Active dry yeast is the go-to for this recipe, but instant yeast can be used as a substitute for a faster rise. Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without blooming it in warm milk.
Cream Cheese: If you’re looking for a lighter frosting, Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese. It won’t be as rich but it still tastes great when sweetened!
How Do I Get the Dough to Rise Properly?
The key to a perfect rise is warmth! After mixing your dough, place it in a warm spot—think an oven turned off but slightly warmed or on top of the refrigerator. Make sure the bowl is covered well to keep the moisture in.
- Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, usually 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Check by poking with your finger; if the indent stays, it’s ready!
With these tips and insights, you’ll create amazing Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls everyone will love! Enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while baking!
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and rising time. You’ll spend around 30 minutes mixing and rolling, with two rising times totaling about 1.5 hours, plus 20-25 minutes for baking. It’s worth the wait for these delicious rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This tells you that the yeast is activated and ready to help your dough rise!
2. Prepare Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Now, pour in the yeast mixture along with the salt, stirring everything together until well combined.
3. Add Flour:
Gradually add the flour to the mixture, one cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms. Once incorporated, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If you have a stand mixer, you can use the dough hook for this part!
4. First Rise:
Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Put it in a warm place to rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens!
5. Prepare Filling:
While the dough rises, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside the softened butter in another bowl, which you’ll use in the next step.
6. Roll Out Dough:
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any excess air. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a rectangle that measures approximately 12×16 inches. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.
7. Add Filling:
Spread the softened butter evenly across the surface of your dough rectangle. Next, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
8. Form Rolls:
Starting with one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal it. Now, cut the log into 12 equal pieces, using a sharp knife or a piece of dental floss for clean cuts without squishing them.
9. Second Rise:
Arrange the rolls, cut side up, in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they’re puffed up and have risen nicely.
10. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s ready, bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
11. Make Frosting:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, adding milk if needed to achieve your desired frosting consistency.
12. Frost & Serve:
Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls. Now you’re ready to serve these delightful treats! Enjoy your delicious Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls!
These rolls combine the best flavors of banana bread with the fluffy goodness of cinnamon rolls, topped with that irresistible cream cheese frosting. It’s a treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour for a healthier option! Just note that the rolls may be denser and require a little extra liquid, so keep an eye on the dough’s consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, wrap a roll in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Can I Freeze the Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! Before frosting, wrap the cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What if My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast or a too-cold environment. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that your rising area is warm (around 75-80°F). If your dough hasn’t risen after an hour, you can try transferring it to a warmer spot, like a turned-off oven with the light on.
