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