These banana bread cinnamon rolls are the perfect treat to brighten your mornings or impress guests at brunch. Combining the beloved flavors of banana bread with the delightful texture of cinnamon rolls, this recipe creates a unique and delicious experience. With easy-to-follow steps and ingredients you likely already have on hand, you’ll find these rolls suitable for any occasion, from cozy breakfasts to festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of bananas, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm for breakfast or as a sweet dessert option.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the rolls in advance, allowing for stress-free baking on the day you plan to serve them.
- Irresistible Cream Cheese Frosting: Topping these rolls with creamy frosting elevates them to a new level of indulgence.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting to make your banana bread cinnamon rolls, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve uniform thickness when rolling out the dough for even baking.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for your rolls to rise and bake beautifully.
Ingredients
These banana bread cinnamon rolls are made with an easy yeast dough made with fresh banana. The rolls get rolled up with brown sugar, cinnamon, and even more sliced bananas! I top them with cream cheese frosting for the best brunch treat. You can assemble these day before baking too!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (240 ml) milk ( lukewarm (about 120-130°F), see note)
– 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 ( see note)
– 1½ teaspoons salt
– ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
– 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)
– ¼ cup 60 ml heavy cream (slightly warmed (for pouring on rolls before baking))
– 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
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk until lukewarm. Remove from heat and whisk in the unsalted butter until melted.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, instant yeast, salt, mashed banana, and flour gradually until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise until doubled in size—about one hour.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air.
- Roll it out into a rectangle about half an inch thick on a floured surface.
Step 4: Add Filling
- Spread very soft unsalted butter over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle packed light brown sugar mixed with cinnamon evenly across the surface.
- Add thinly sliced bananas on top of the filling.
Step 5: Roll Up and Cut
- Starting from one end, carefully roll up the dough into a tight log shape.
- Cut into twelve equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.
Step 6: Final Rise & Bake
- Place cut rolls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise again for about thirty minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for approximately thirty-five minutes or until golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting
- Beat together softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing well; stir in vanilla extract.
Step 8: Frost & Serve
- Once baked, let your banana bread cinnamon rolls cool slightly before drizzling with cream cheese frosting.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
These delicious banana bread cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy morning at home, serving them just right can elevate your experience.
With Cream Cheese Frosting
- Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on each roll for a rich and sweet flavor that complements the bananas.
Fresh Fruit Side
- Pair these rolls with a side of fresh fruit like berries or slices of kiwi. The acidity from the fruit balances the sweetness of the rolls.
Hot Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your banana bread cinnamon rolls with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink enhances the flavors and creates a comforting experience.
Ice Cream Topping
- For an indulgent twist, serve warm rolls topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the warm bread.
Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream on top adds extra creaminess and makes these rolls feel even more special.
How to Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Perfecting banana bread cinnamon rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
Use ripe bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making your rolls even tastier.
Check dough consistency: Ensure your dough is soft but not sticky. Adjust flour as needed while kneading for the perfect texture.
Allow proper rising time: Letting your dough rise until it doubles in size is crucial for fluffy rolls. Be patient!
Preheat oven properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps achieve an evenly baked roll.
Don’t skip the cream: Pouring slightly warmed heavy cream over the rolls before baking keeps them moist and adds richness.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
When serving banana bread cinnamon rolls, pairing them with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory element that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the rolls.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that balances richness with tanginess.
Egg Casserole: A fluffy egg casserole provides protein and rounds out your brunch spread nicely.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad brings freshness to your plate, enhancing flavors without overpowering.
Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers health benefits alongside satisfying textures.
Scones: Light scones, perhaps flavored with lemon or blueberry, create variety while keeping things sweet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking banana bread cinnamon rolls can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve perfect results.
- Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your milk and butter are at the right temperature. Lukewarm milk and softened butter help activate the yeast effectively.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour, which can lead to dense rolls.
- Skipping the rise time: Give your dough enough time to rise. Skipping this step can result in tough rolls that don’t expand properly.
- Ignoring the yeast freshness: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Old or expired yeast won’t rise as needed, affecting the texture of your rolls.
- Overfilling with filling: While it’s tempting to add more brown sugar or bananas, overfilling can make rolling difficult and cause spills during baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store banana bread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Freeze unbaked rolls before rising for up to 2 months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium for 20-30 seconds per roll for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making banana bread cinnamon rolls, check out these answers!
What are Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?
Banana bread cinnamon rolls are a delightful fusion of classic banana bread flavors rolled into soft, sweet cinnamon rolls topped with cream cheese frosting.
Can I use ripe bananas for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! Ripe bananas enhance sweetness and provide better flavor. It’s best to use bananas that are speckled or browned.
How long do Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls last?
When stored properly, these delicious rolls will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.
Can I prepare Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble them the night before and refrigerate overnight. Just let them rise before baking.
Final Thoughts
These banana bread cinnamon rolls are an incredible treat that combines comfort food with a delightful twist. They’re perfect for brunch or a cozy snack! Feel free to customize with nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor. Try this recipe today, and enjoy every bite of these heavenly treats!
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of homemade Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. These delightful rolls combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich taste of brown sugar and cinnamon, all rolled into soft, fluffy dough and topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or an impressive brunch treat, this recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated for a quick snack, these banana bread cinnamon rolls are sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (lukewarm)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4½ – 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ cup mashed banana
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 large bananas (sliced)
- Cream cheese frosting (made from cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract)
Instructions
- Heat milk until lukewarm; whisk in melted butter.
- Combine granulated sugar, yeast, salt, mashed banana, and gradually add flour to form a soft dough.
- Knead dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until elastic. Let it rise in a greased bowl until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Roll out dough into a rectangle, spread softened butter on top, and sprinkle with brown sugar mixed with cinnamon and sliced bananas.
- Roll tightly into a log and cut into twelve pieces. Allow to rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 35 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare cream cheese frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter; mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Frost warm rolls before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness. You can prepare rolls ahead of time by assembling them the night before and refrigerating overnight. For added texture, consider mixing in nuts or chocolate chips.
