Name: Delicious Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Ingredients: Filling:; 2 large bananas, sliced thin; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; Dough:; 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana); 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm (120–130°F); 4 1/2 to 5 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; Assembly:; 1/4 cup heavy cream, warmed a bit (for pouring before baking); Cream Cheese Frosting:; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

There’s something incredibly comforting about freshly baked banana cinnamon rolls. Imagine pulling a warm tray out of the oven, the sweet scent of ripe bananas mingling with the aromatic warmth of cinnamon. These treats are not just delightful to the senses; they also provide a sense of nostalgia, often reminding people of family breakfasts or cozy weekend mornings. The excellence of this recipe lies in its ease, simplicity, and the way it elevates traditional cinnamon rolls by incorporating luscious, ripe banana into both the filling and the dough.

Banana cinnamon rolls are the perfect blend of flavors, marrying the sweetness of bananas with the spicy warmth of cinnamon. These rolls prove to be fulfilling yet light, making them a suitable dessert or breakfast choice. Better yet, the creamy frosting adds a luscious touch that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With just a collection of essential ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible pastries that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Cinnamon Rolls

Here are just a few reasons why this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your baking repertoire:

Unique Flavor: The combination of banana and cinnamon creates a flavor profile that is both sweet and aromatic.
Easy to Make: Even novice bakers will find this banana cinnamon roll recipe manageable.
Comforting Dessert: Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful dessert, these rolls are sure to satisfy.
Adaptable Recipe: You can modify the filling or add nuts for an extra crunch to each bite.
Great for Meal Prep: These rolls freeze well, allowing you to prepare them in advance and enjoy them later.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin baking your banana cinnamon rolls, it’s crucial to get your kitchen organized. Start by gathering these essential tools: a mixing bowl, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, a rolling pin, a sharp knife or dough cutter for slicing, and a greased 9×13-inch baking dish for the rolls to rise and bake. Make sure your oven is ready to go, preheating to 350°F while the dough rises.

Next, prepare your workspace. Clean countertops will help ensure that your dough remains uncontaminated. It can get a bit sticky, so having a floured surface accessible is key to rolling out your dough after it rises. You will also want all your dairy ingredients, like butter and milk, at room temperature to achieve a smooth consistency in the dough.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious banana cinnamon rolls:

Filling:
2 large bananas, sliced thin
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
Dough:
1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana)
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup whole milk, lukewarm (120–130°F)
4 1/2 to 5 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Assembly:
1/4 cup heavy cream, warmed a bit (for pouring before baking)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Start by making the cream cheese frosting; this will be the delightful topping for your finished rolls. In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat them together on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar at low speed to prevent a sugary cloud from forming, followed by vanilla extract. Increase the speed and continue mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy. Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the rolls.

Step 2: Make the Dough

For the dough, start by warming the whole milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat until it’s melted along with the butter and granulated sugar. This mixture needs to be between 120°F and 130°F before you use it. In a stand mixer bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Next, add the warm milk mixture and the mashed banana to the flour. Mix until you have a sticky dough, switching to the dough hook attachment if necessary.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Once the dough comes together, knead it on medium speed for approximately 6-8 minutes. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour until it’s manageable. Once fully kneaded, transfer the dough to a greased bowl, turning it to coat the surface. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 4: Roll and Stuff the Dough

After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it into rolls. On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle about 18 inches by 12 inches. Spread the softened butter over the entire surface, leaving a half-inch border at the top. In a bowl, mix the cinnamon with brown sugar and sprinkle this evenly across the butter. Finally, lay the thin banana slices on top of the cinnamon mixture.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the seams to seal. Using a sharp knife or dough cutter, slice the log into 12 even-sized sections. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, placing them spiral side up. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again in a warm spot for about 45 minutes, or until they are nearly double in size.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Just before you bake, pour the slightly warmed heavy cream over the rolls, allowing it to soak into the dough. Preheat your oven to 350°F while the rolls rise. Once preheated, place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes.

Variations

Protein: Add cooked, crumbled bacon or pecans for a savory twist.
Vegetables: Stir in some finely chopped spinach or kale to the dough for added nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for extra spice in the filling.

Cooking Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.
Use very ripe bananas; they give better flavor and sweetness to the dough.
These rolls can be frozen after baking. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to serve warm.
Adjust the amounts of sugar based on your desired level of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These banana cinnamon rolls are amazing on their own but can be served warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning experience.

Tips

Make sure to pinch the dough edges firmly to create a well-sealed roll that holds its shape.
Add toppings such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips before rolling for an extra layer of flavor.
Consider allowing the rolls to rise overnight in the refrigerator for a convenient, ready-to-bake option in the morning.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

What is the best way to store banana cinnamon rolls?

Place the cooled rolls in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. You can also freeze them for long-term storage.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the banana cinnamon rolls and let them rise overnight in the refrigerator. Bake them fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast treat.

What type of bananas should I use?

Use very ripe bananas; they should be soft and speckled with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness in your rolls.

How can I make my rolls more flavorful?

Adding spices like nutmeg or vanilla extract, or incorporating lemon zest in the frosting, can enhance the flavors in your banana cinnamon rolls.

Conclusion

These banana cinnamon rolls are not just a dish; they’re an experience. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them during a cozy family breakfast, a special celebration, or even indulging in a sweet treat at the end of the day, these rolls never fail to impress. We encourage you to try your hand at this delicious recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it your own. If you love banana treats or cinnamon rolls, you will surely fall in love with this combination. Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know how your baking adventure turns out!