Combining the comforting flavors of banana bread with the irresistible swirls of cinnamon rolls, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls offer a delightful twist on two classic treats. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With a tender, fluffy texture and a rich, gooey filling, each bite is a blend of warm cinnamon, sweet bananas, and creamy icing. Follow this guide to create a delectable batch of rolls that are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones or featuring on your food blog.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mashed banana (about 2-3 medium bananas)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm milk with yeast and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana. Mix well. Gradually add flour, stirring until the dough comes together. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
- Shape the Rolls: Roll out dough on a floured surface into a 20×14-inch rectangle. Spread the filling over the dough and sprinkle with walnuts, if using. Roll up tightly from the long side. Cut into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Icing: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls.
Prep Time: 2 hours | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 12
Tips and FAQ:
- Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the rolls up until the second rise and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature before baking.
- How do I know if the yeast is active? If the mixture becomes foamy after a few minutes, your yeast is active and ready to use.
- Can I use a different nut or omit them altogether? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling to your taste.
Conclusion:
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls beautifully merge the flavors of two beloved baked goods, resulting in a treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at yeast breads for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Serve these warm, gooey rolls fresh from the oven, topped with creamy icing, for a cozy breakfast or indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results of your baking!
Remember, the key to perfect rolls is patience during the rising times and a gentle hand while rolling. Happy baking!