Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These banana bread cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic flavors you love. Perfect for brunch or dessert, they combine the sweetness of ripe bananas with the comforting warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar. Topped with creamy frosting, these rolls are not only delicious but also easy to prepare ahead of time, making them a fantastic option for gatherings or cozy mornings at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With a simple yeast dough, even novice bakers can create these delicious rolls.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and bananas creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of the day.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the rolls the night before and bake them fresh in the morning!
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The rich frosting adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the rolls perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing these banana bread cinnamon rolls is straightforward. Having the right tools on hand will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: A stand mixer makes kneading the dough easier, but a bowl and your hands work just fine.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough to create those perfect layers for your rolls.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your rolls.

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 Topping

• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream (slightly warmed (for pouring on rolls before baking))

For Cream Cheese Frosting

• 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 Your Dough

1. In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk until lukewarm.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Add in instant yeast and allow it to proof for about 5 minutes until frothy.
4. Gradually add flour and salt into the mixture while kneading until you form a smooth dough.
5. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a separate bowl, mix together softened butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon until well blended.
2. Roll out your dough on a floured surface into a rectangle shape.
3. Spread the filling evenly over the dough followed by slices of banana.

Step 3: Create Rolls

1. Starting from one end of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
2. Cut into equal pieces using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place rolls onto a lined baking sheet leaving space between each roll.
2. Pour slightly warmed heavy cream over them.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Frosting

1. While rolls are cooling slightly, beat together softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
3. Spread frosting generously over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy your homemade banana bread cinnamon rolls! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family breakfast!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These delicious banana bread cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy morning or a festive brunch, serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience.

Classic Brunch Style

• Coffee: A rich cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the rolls.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of seasonal fruits like berries or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast.

Decadent Dessert Option

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy touch to your rolls.
• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup on top for extra sweetness and flavor.

Family Gatherings

• Whipped Cream: Top with fluffy whipped cream for a festive touch that everyone will love.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Serve alongside extra cream cheese glaze for those who want more indulgence.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Achieving the perfect banana bread cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they come out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh bananas and high-quality butter for the best flavor in your rolls.
• Knead Properly: Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for better texture.
• Let It Rise: Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size; this step is crucial for fluffy rolls.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your rolls while they bake; overbaking can lead to dry rolls. They should be golden brown when done.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with your banana bread cinnamon rolls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement their flavors.

1. Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and help round out your breakfast.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit gives a refreshing crunch alongside soft rolls.
4. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl adds color and nutrients, making it a healthy pairing.
5. Homemade Granola: Crunchy granola brings texture to your plate, making each bite exciting.
6. Coconut Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding topped with fruit offers a nutritious and decadent option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana bread cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Incorrect Yeast Measurement: Using too much or too little yeast can affect the dough’s rise. Always measure accurately for the best results.
• Overmixing Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough rolls. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
• Not Allowing Dough to Rise: Skipping the rising time can result in dense rolls. Be patient and let the dough rise until doubled in size.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold milk or butter can hinder proper mixing and rising. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
• Skipping the Cream Cheese Frosting: While delicious on its own, skipping the frosting may lead to missing out on a key flavor component. Don’t skip this delightful addition!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store 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 or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover rolls with foil and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds on high power.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour for banana bread cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. You might want to mix it with all-purpose flour for better results.

Can I make these banana bread cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day before baking. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight before baking as usual.

How do I know when my banana bread cinnamon rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

You can replace cream cheese frosting with vanilla glaze or even a simple powdered sugar icing if you prefer something lighter.

Final Thoughts

These banana bread cinnamon rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—breakfast, brunch, or dessert! You can customize them by adding nuts or swapping out spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of banana bread cinnamon rolls, a perfect blend of sweet ripe bananas and warm cinnamon enveloped in soft, fluffy dough. These rolls are ideal for brunch or dessert, offering a comforting touch with every bite. Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, they not only taste heavenly but can also be prepared ahead for effortless serving at gatherings or cozy mornings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, even novice bakers can enjoy this scrumptious treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup lukewarm milk
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 4 ½ – 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for filling)
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 2 large bananas (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup heavy cream (for topping)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (for frosting)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frosting)
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Warm the milk and mix with melted butter and sugar in a bowl. Add yeast and let it proof for 5 minutes.
2. Gradually incorporate flour and salt, kneading until smooth. Cover and let rise for an hour.
3. Combine filling ingredients; roll out dough and spread filling evenly before adding sliced bananas.
4. Roll up tightly and slice into pieces; place on a baking sheet.
5. Pour warmed heavy cream over rolls; bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes until golden.
6. Prepare frosting while cooling; beat together cream cheese and butter, adding powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Frost warm rolls before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 roll (100g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg