Imagine the warm aroma of bananas and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, filling your home with a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Few treats can match the delightful balance of sweetness, spice, and fluffiness found in Banana Cinnamon Rolls. Whether you’re looking to impress your family with a weekend breakfast or satisfy your sweet tooth on a lazy afternoon, these rolls will leave everyone asking for more. Let’s dive into the details, from gathering the ingredients to the final mouthwatering bite.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Banana Cinnamon Rolls
There’s something magical about combining bananas and cinnamon. Bananas add natural sweetness, moisture, and a rich depth of flavor to the dough. When paired with cinnamon, this duo creates a cozy, homely treat perfect for any occasion. Plus, these Banana Cinnamon Rolls are an excellent way to use overripe bananas sitting on your countertop!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below is a complete list of the ingredients required to make these delightful rolls. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure the best results.
| Category | Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Produce | Bananas (mashed) | 2/3 cup |
| Whole bananas (for flavor) | 2 | |
| Refrigerated | Egg, large | 1 |
| Baking & Spices | Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 tsp |
| All-purpose flour | 5 1/4 cups | |
| Brown sugar (light or dark) | 3/4 cup (packed) | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tbsp | |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | |
| Salt | 1 tsp | |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 tsp | |
| Dairy | Unsalted butter | 22 tbsp (divided) |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Banana Cinnamon Rolls
1. Preparing the Dough
The dough is the foundation of your Banana Cinnamon Rolls, so it’s essential to get it right.
- Start by warming 3/4 cup of milk to about 110°F (lukewarm). Add 2 1/4 tsp of active dry yeast and a pinch of granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of salt, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
- In a separate bowl, mash 2/3 cup of bananas and mix them with 6 tbsp of melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the banana mixture and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until the dough comes together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5-6 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Making the Cinnamon Filling
The filling is where the magic happens. It’s what gives these rolls their signature flavor.
- In a small bowl, mix 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 tbsp of ground cinnamon, and 6 tbsp of softened unsalted butter until well combined.
- Keep this mixture aside for spreading later.
3. Rolling and Shaping the Dough
Here’s where your rolls take shape:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out into a large rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
4. Second Rise
This step ensures your rolls are soft and fluffy.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes.
5. Baking the Rolls
It’s time to turn that dough into golden, aromatic rolls.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden on top. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the rolls dry.
6. Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting
No cinnamon roll is complete without a generous drizzle of frosting.
- Beat 4 oz of cream cheese, 4 tbsp of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- For an extra touch, mash 1 ripe banana and mix it into the frosting. This adds a subtle banana flavor and a creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Banana Cinnamon Rolls warm with a generous dollop of cream cheese frosting. Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for the ultimate treat. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or drizzle caramel sauce on top for added indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Banana Cinnamon Rolls
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your rolls will be.
- Don’t rush the rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for soft and fluffy rolls.
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing and even baking.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sugar | 20g |
(Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and ingredients.)
FAQs about Banana Cinnamon Rolls
1. Can I make Banana Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise before baking.
2. Can I freeze Banana Cinnamon Rolls?
Absolutely! Bake the rolls, but don’t frost them. Once cooled, freeze them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then add the frosting.
3. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
If you’re out of cream cheese, try a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. How do I store leftover rolls?
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
5. Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Yes, chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips can be added to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
6. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the rolls may be denser.
Conclusion: Time to Bake!
Now that you have all the tools and tips you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake some Banana Cinnamon Rolls. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these rolls are sure to impress. The combination of banana-infused dough, cinnamon-spiced filling, and creamy frosting is nothing short of heavenly.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ripe bananas and get baking today!
PrintBanana Cinnamon Rolls: A Sweet and Comforting Treat
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of sweetness and spice with these Banana Cinnamon Rolls. Made with ripe bananas and warm cinnamon, these rolls are soft, fluffy, and topped with a creamy banana-infused cream cheese frosting. Whether it’s a weekend breakfast or a cozy dessert, this recipe will be your go-to treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- Produce:
- 2/3 cup mashed bananas
- 2 ripe bananas (for flavor)
- Refrigerated:
- 1 large egg
- Baking & Spices:
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 5 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Dairy:
- 22 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 3/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Warm 3/4 cup milk to about 110°F and mix with 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast and a pinch of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a bowl, combine 5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
- In a separate bowl, mash 2/3 cup bananas and mix with 6 tbsp melted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- Gradually combine the banana mixture and yeast mixture with the dry ingredients. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Make the Cinnamon Filling:
- Mix 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp cinnamon, and 6 tbsp softened butter until combined.
- Roll and Shape:
- Roll out the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly, leaving a border around the edges.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise:
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden on top.
- Make the Frosting:
- Beat 4 oz cream cheese, 4 tbsp butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. For an extra touch, mash 1 ripe banana and mix it into the frosting.
- Serve:
- Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
- Don’t skip the second rise—this ensures soft, fluffy rolls.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Add chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the filling for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
