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Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Easy & Delicious Treat

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Easy & Delicious Treat


Description

Welcome, fellow food enthusiasts! If you’re craving a deliciously sweet and comforting treat, you’ve come to the right place. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect fusion of two classic favorites: the rich, moist goodness of banana bread and the fluffy, warm satisfaction of cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re a fan of banana-flavored desserts or a cinnamon roll lover, this recipe will have your taste buds dancing with joy! So grab your apron and let’s dive into the irresistible world of banana bread cinnamon rolls.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 23 bananas)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

This banana bread cinnamon roll recipe combines familiar ingredients, with the addition of ripe bananas bringing in a delightful twist. Feel free to make substitutions based on dietary preferences—plant-based milk or butter can be used to create a dairy-free version, and gluten-free flour can be swapped for those with gluten sensitivities.


Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and a pinch of granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial for ensuring your dough rises properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, remaining granulated sugar, melted butter, and eggs until everything is well combined. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Make the Filling

While your dough is rising, prepare the cinnamon roll filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 6: Fill and Roll

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.

Step 7: Slice and Arrange

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the rolled dough into 12 equal-sized pieces. Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a small gap between each roll.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the baking dish with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffed and nearly doubled in size.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. Beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 11: Ice and Serve

Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Spread the cream cheese icing generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combo of banana bread and cinnamon roll flavors!

Notes

  • Banana ripeness matters: Use bananas that are very ripe for the best flavor. Overripe bananas work best because they add natural sweetness to the dough.
  • Perfect dough texture: The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too sticky, gradually add more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
  • Rolling technique: Roll the dough tightly to ensure that the filling is evenly distributed. This will also help create swirls in the rolls when sliced.
  • Adjust icing sweetness: The cream cheese icing can be made sweeter or tangier depending on your preference by adjusting the amount of powdered sugar or cream cheese.