Banana bread cinnamon rolls...

 

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls: A Perfect Fusion of Flavor

If you love banana bread and cinnamon rolls, why not combine them into one delightful treat? These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are soft, gooey, and packed with the warm flavors of ripe bananas, brown sugar, and cinnamon. They make a perfect breakfast, brunch, or even dessert option.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• Why you'll love these cinnamon rolls
• Ingredients needed
• Step-by-step instructions
• Pro tips for the best results
• Variations and serving suggestions

Let’s dive into this delicious fusion!

Why You'll Love Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

• Soft & Fluffy – The addition of mashed bananas makes the dough incredibly soft and moist.
• Naturally Sweet – Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for extra sugar.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Perfection – A rich cinnamon-sugar filling takes these rolls to the next level.
• Deliciously Glazed – A homemade cream cheese or vanilla glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 1/3 cup softened butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast – In a bowl, mix warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Add the yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Combine Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, egg, and salt. Mix well.
3. Add Yeast Mixture – Stir in the activated yeast and gradually add the flour. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
4. Let it Rise – Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

1. Roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
2. Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
3. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 even rolls.

Step 4: Second Rise & Bake

1. Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch pan. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. Beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until creamy.
3. Drizzle over warm rolls.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Use Overripe Bananas – The riper the banana, the better the flavor and sweetness.
Don’t Overload with Flour – Too much flour can make the rolls dense; the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Let the Dough Rise Properly – Be patient! Proper rising ensures light and fluffy rolls.
Use a Sharp Knife for Cutting – This prevents the rolls from losing their shape.

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Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Caramel Pecan Rolls – Add a caramel drizzle and chopped pecans for a nutty twist.
• Chocolate Chip Banana Rolls – Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the filling for an indulgent treat.
• Maple Glaze – Swap the vanilla glaze for a maple syrup-infused topping.
• Serve with Coffee or Milk – These cinnamon rolls pair perfectly with a hot drink. 

Final Thoughts

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a game-changer for anyone who loves both banana bread and cinnamon rolls. They’re soft, sweet, and packed with comforting flavor.