There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of cinnamon and fresh bread filling your home. It’s the kind of aroma that stirs memories of cozy mornings spent with family, hot coffee brewing, and the joy of sharing a homemade breakfast. These Banana Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a treat; they’re an experience—a combination of the soft, sweet allure of banana bread and the irresistible decadence of cinnamon rolls.
Banana bread and cinnamon rolls each have a devoted following, but together, they form a perfect union. The ripe bananas infuse the dough with natural sweetness and moistness, while the cinnamon-sugar swirl provides that classic gooey indulgence we crave. Finished with a rich cream cheese icing, every bite is a mix of soft, buttery bread, warm spices, and sweet, tangy frosting. Whether you’re treating your family on a lazy Sunday morning or impressing guests at brunch, these banana cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A Twist on Tradition: By combining banana bread flavors with classic cinnamon rolls, this recipe feels familiar yet excitingly different.
- Rich, Gooey Filling: The layers of cinnamon sugar and sliced bananas ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Make-Ahead Option: Perfect for mornings when you’d rather spend time with loved ones than fuss in the kitchen.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls are a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 large egg, room temperature and lightly beaten
- ⅔ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 5¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and cubed
For the Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 firm bananas, thinly sliced
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
How to Make Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk to around 110°F and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Work in the Butter: Add the cubed butter to the dry mixture and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir the mashed bananas, egg, and frothy yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: If using a stand mixer, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Make the Cinnamon Butter: Beat the butter until smooth, then add the brown sugar and cinnamon. Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Roll Out the Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon butter evenly across the surface, all the way to the edges. Lay the sliced bananas in a single layer over the filling.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving space between each. Cover and let them rise for 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F.
- Bake: Once risen, bake the rolls for 28-33 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Step 5: Prepare the Icing
- Mix the Icing: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then stir in the vanilla extract and milk. Adjust consistency with a little more milk if needed.
Step 6: Ice and Serve
- Frost the Rolls: Spread the icing generously over the warm rolls, letting it melt into the crevices for that gooey, sticky finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Using Overripe Bananas: For the best flavor, use bananas with plenty of brown spots. They’re sweeter and easier to mash.
- Perfect Dough Texture: If the dough feels sticky while kneading, add small amounts of flour (a tablespoon at a time) until it’s smooth and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- Cutting Rolls Cleanly: Dental floss is a secret weapon for clean cuts. Slide it under the log, cross the ends, and pull tight to slice through without squishing.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep the rolls the night before, cover them tightly in the pan, and refrigerate. The next morning, let them rise at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm, fresh taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll)
- Calories: Approx. 320
- Carbs: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 14g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked rolls after cutting them into pieces. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw and rise before baking as directed.
Can I use plant-based milk or butter?
Absolutely. Substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
What other fruits can I use?
If bananas aren’t your thing, try adding thinly sliced apples or pears for a different twist.
Related Recipes
If you loved these Banana Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll also enjoy:
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Hawaiian Roll French Toast: Sweet, Pillowy Perfection for Breakfast
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats: A Breakfast Classic Reimagined
Conclusion
Baking Banana Cinnamon Rolls is more than just making a breakfast treat—it’s a way to slow down, connect with loved ones, and fill your home with warmth. Whether you’re serving these for a special occasion or just because, they’re bound to bring smiles and second helpings. So grab those ripe bananas and let’s roll!
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Banana Cinnamon Rolls: A Sweet Start to Your Day
Description
There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of cinnamon and fresh bread filling your home. It’s the kind of aroma that stirs memories of cozy mornings spent with family, hot coffee brewing, and the joy of sharing a homemade breakfast. These Banana Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a treat; they’re an experience—a combination of the soft, sweet allure of banana bread and the irresistible decadence of cinnamon rolls.
Banana bread and cinnamon rolls each have a devoted following, but together, they form a perfect union. The ripe bananas infuse the dough with natural sweetness and moistness, while the cinnamon-sugar swirl provides that classic gooey indulgence we crave. Finished with a rich cream cheese icing, every bite is a mix of soft, buttery bread, warm spices, and sweet, tangy frosting. Whether you’re treating your family on a lazy Sunday morning or impressing guests at brunch, these banana cinnamon rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 large egg, room temperature and lightly beaten
- ⅔ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 5¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and cubed
For the Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 firm bananas, thinly sliced
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk to around 110°F and sprinkle the yeast over it. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Work in the Butter: Add the cubed butter to the dry mixture and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir the mashed bananas, egg, and frothy yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: If using a stand mixer, knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Make the Cinnamon Butter: Beat the butter until smooth, then add the brown sugar and cinnamon. Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Roll Out the Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the Filling: Spread the cinnamon butter evenly across the surface, all the way to the edges. Lay the sliced bananas in a single layer over the filling.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving space between each. Cover and let them rise for 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F.
- Bake: Once risen, bake the rolls for 28-33 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
Step 5: Prepare the Icing
- Mix the Icing: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then stir in the vanilla extract and milk. Adjust consistency with a little more milk if needed.
Step 6: Ice and Serve
- Frost the Rolls: Spread the icing generously over the warm rolls, letting it melt into the crevices for that gooey, sticky finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm, fresh taste.