Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These banana bread cinnamon rolls are the perfect blend of deliciousness and comfort. Ideal for brunch, breakfast, or even a cozy dessert, they combine the beloved flavors of banana bread with the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls. With the added bonus of cream cheese frosting, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, making them a hassle-free option for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple yeast dough comes together quickly, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Flavors: Enjoy the delightful combination of bananas, brown sugar, and cinnamon in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a holiday gathering, these rolls are always a hit.
• Make Ahead Option: Assemble the rolls the night before to make serving easy on busy mornings.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls take indulgence to a whole new level.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking these delicious banana bread cinnamon rolls, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Being organized will make the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; having multiple sizes helps when preparing different components.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your dough rises perfectly and tastes just right.
• Rolling pin: Necessary for rolling out your dough evenly, helping to create those perfect swirls in each roll.

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!

For the Dough

• 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)

For the Filling

• 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)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 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 Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk and melted butter.
2. Add granulated sugar and instant yeast; let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Stir in mashed banana. Gradually add flour and salt until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
2. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Place in a greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once risen, punch down the dough gently.
2. Roll it out into a rectangle shape on a floured surface.

Step 4: Add Filling

1. Spread softened butter over the dough.
2. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle evenly on top.
3. Layer thinly sliced bananas over sugar mixture.

Step 5: Shape Rolls

1. Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
2. Slice into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Step 6: Second Rise

1. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Cover loosely with plastic wrap; let rise again until puffy, about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour warmed heavy cream over risen rolls before placing them in the oven.
3. Bake for approximately 25-35 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Frost

1. While baking, prepare cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Once baked and slightly cooled, spread frosting generously over warm rolls.

Enjoy these delightful banana bread cinnamon rolls as part of your morning routine or as an indulgent treat anytime!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These banana bread cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just indulging in a cozy breakfast, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Classic with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Serve the rolls warm, generously topped with cream cheese frosting for a sweet finish.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Enjoy these rolls alongside fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzle with Maple Syrup

• Add a drizzle of maple syrup over the top for an added layer of sweetness and flavor.

Side of Whipped Cream

• Serve with whipped cream on the side for those who love a creamy texture to complement the softness of the rolls.

Coffee or Tea Companion

• These rolls go wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for breakfast or afternoon snacks.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the best results when making banana bread cinnamon rolls, follow these helpful tips.

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your rolls will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal taste.

• Check yeast freshness: Always ensure your instant yeast is fresh. If it doesn’t foam when mixed with warm milk, it’s time for new yeast.

• Knead properly: Knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This ensures a fluffy texture once baked.

• Allow proper rising time: Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size. This is crucial for achieving light and airy rolls.

• Don’t skip the cream: Pouring warmed heavy cream over the assembled rolls before baking keeps them moist and adds richness.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These banana bread cinnamon rolls are delicious on their own but can be even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Bacon
   Crispy bacon offers a savory contrast to the sweetness of the rolls. Cook until crunchy for added texture.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   A yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh fruit adds healthiness and balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.

3. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a hearty brunch option alongside sweet rolls.

4. Sausage Links
   Savory sausage links pair well with sweet flavors, providing a satisfying meal that is both filling and delicious.

5. Smoothie Bowl
   A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds adds freshness and nutrition to your brunch table.

6. Chia Seed Pudding
   Light yet filling, chia pudding can add an interesting texture while keeping things healthy on your plate.

7. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad complements the richness of banana bread cinnamon rolls perfectly and adds brightness to your meal.

8. Coffee Cake
   Another sweet option, coffee cake pairs beautifully with cinnamon flavors and enhances your brunch spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana bread cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here’s what to watch out for:

• dough preparation: Not allowing the dough to rise properly can lead to dense rolls. Make sure the dough has doubled in size before rolling it out.

• ingredient temperatures: Using cold milk or butter can affect yeast activation. Ensure your milk is lukewarm, around 120-130°F, and that the butter is softened.

• measuring flour: Adding too much flour will make your rolls tough. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.

• omitting cream cheese frosting: Skipping the frosting can leave the rolls lacking in flavor. This creamy topping adds a delicious finish that elevates the entire dish.

• overbaking: Baking for too long will dry out your rolls. Watch them closely and take them out when golden brown.

• skipping sliced bananas: Not including sliced bananas in the filling leads to missing flavor layers. Incorporate them generously for added sweetness and moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover banana bread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the rolls for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet with a lid over low heat, adding a splash of water for steam, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re still curious about banana bread cinnamon rolls, here are some common questions answered.

How do I ensure my banana bread cinnamon rolls rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and activated correctly. The dough should rise until it doubles in size, which usually takes about an hour in a warm place.

Can I make banana bread cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble these rolls a day before baking. Just cover them tightly and store them in the fridge overnight; they will be ready to bake in the morning!

What is the best way to customize banana bread cinnamon rolls?

You could add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips to enhance flavor. Experimenting with different spices like nutmeg can also give you unique results!

Are banana bread cinnamon rolls suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! These delightful treats are perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings. Serve them warm alongside coffee or tea for a cozy meal.

Final Thoughts

These banana bread cinnamon rolls combine comfort food with decadent flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your cravings, ensuring everyone enjoys this sweet treat. Try this recipe today and bring joy to your brunch table!