Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines two classic favorites, then these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are just what you need! They are a wonderful blend of soft, sweet banana bread and gooey cinnamon rolls, making them perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

These rolls are not only delicious but also allow you to use up those ripe bananas sitting on your counter. Believe me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home. Your family will be begging for these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls every weekend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have these rolls ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone loves banana bread and cinnamon rolls—this recipe combines both!
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prep them the night before and bake when you’re ready. Perfect for busy mornings!
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of banana, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates an irresistible taste.
• Soft Cream Cheese Frosting: Topping these rolls with creamy frosting adds an extra layer of deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry!

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (240 ml) milk (lukewarm, about 120-130°F)
• 6 Tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 4 ½-5 cups (540 – 600 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)

For the Filling:

• 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick, 57 g) unsalted butter (very soft)
• ½ cup (107 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 2 large bananas (thinly sliced)

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream (slightly warmed)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups (170 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize these rolls based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch to the filling.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, throw in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
• Fruit Swap: Try adding other fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a different flavor profile.
• Cinnamon Roll Twist: Replace mashed banana with apple sauce for delicious apple cinnamon rolls.

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by warming the milk until it’s lukewarm—just right for activating the yeast. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk with butter and granulated sugar. Stir until melted and mixed well. Then sprinkle in the instant yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it ensures that your dough rises beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients. Start mixing until combined; then knead until smooth. Don’t worry if it’s slightly sticky; it should come together nicely after kneading for about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Transfer your dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this usually takes about an hour. Watching it grow is one of my favorite parts!

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While your dough rises, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Once your dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread the filling mixture evenly over the dough and top with thinly sliced bananas.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Starting from one edge, carefully roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal them well! Now slice your rolled dough into equal pieces—about 12 rolls works great. Place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the rolls again with a towel and allow them to rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy and beautiful.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, pour slightly warmed heavy cream over the rolls—it keeps them moist! Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Frosting Time!

While those heavenly rolls cool slightly, prepare your cream cheese frosting by whipping together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. Spread generously over your warm rolls before serving!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Making banana bread cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be sure to impress everyone at your brunch!

• Use ripe bananas: The sweeter and more flavorful your bananas are, the better your rolls will taste. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness.

• Don’t skip the rest time: Allowing your dough to rise is crucial for achieving light and fluffy rolls. Giving it enough time to rest helps develop the gluten, resulting in a tender texture.

• Warm milk is key: When activating the yeast, make sure your milk is lukewarm (about 120-130°F). This temperature helps wake up the yeast, ensuring a good rise.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your yeast and baking powder. Fresh ingredients yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips into the filling for an extra flavor boost. Just remember that this recipe is all about that banana goodness!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These banana bread cinnamon rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present them in a way that showcases their fluffy layers and enticing aroma.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh fruit: A few slices of fresh banana or berries can make your presentation pop while enhancing freshness.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness to each roll.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and provides a light balance.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious side that contrasts nicely with the richness of the rolls.
• Smoothies: Whip up a smoothie using bananas, spinach, and almond milk for a healthy drink option that pairs perfectly.
• Coffee or tea: Offering coffee or herbal tea enhances the overall brunch experience, allowing guests to sip their favorite beverage alongside these delightful treats.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, get ready to enjoy your scrumptious banana bread cinnamon rolls! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh out of the oven whenever you like. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious rolls:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped rolls into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the rolls from the refrigerator or freezer and let them come to room temperature.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If frozen, they may need an additional 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! You can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.

How can I make my Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls even sweeter?

To enhance sweetness, consider adding more brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup on top before serving.

Can I prepare Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls overnight?

Absolutely! Prepare the rolls, cover them tightly, and place them in the fridge overnight. Let them rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

What toppings can I add to my Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?

Feel free to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or more sliced bananas! A sprinkle of chopped walnuts adds a delightful crunch.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you’ll give these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls a try! They’re not just a treat; they bring warmth and joy with every bite. Perfect for brunch gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!