Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Indulge in the perfect blend of banana bread and cinnamon rolls with our irresistible Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, fluffy rolls infused with ripe bananas and cinnamon, baked to golden perfection. Topped with a creamy cream cheese icing for a decadent finish. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful homemade dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 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

Directions:

Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl, combine warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the surface and let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, remaining sugar, melted butter, and eggs until well combined.

Add activated yeast mixture to the banana mixture and stir. Gradually add flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Turn dough onto a floured surface, knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1-2 hours.

Make the Filling:

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough:

Punch down risen dough and roll into a large rectangle on a floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick.

Fill and Roll:

Spread filling evenly over dough, leaving a border. Roll dough tightly into a log starting from one long edge.

Slice and Arrange:

Cut rolled dough into 12 pieces. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each.

Second Rise:

Cover rolls and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, until puffed and nearly doubled.

Bake:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Cream Cheese Icing:

While rolls bake, beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Ice and Serve:

Remove rolls from oven, cool slightly. Spread icing over warm rolls and serve.

Serving Tips:

Warmth is Key: Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls warm for the best experience. The soft texture and gooey filling are heightened when enjoyed freshly baked.

Creamy Finish: Before serving, generously spread the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls. The sweet tanginess complements the flavors of banana and cinnamon perfectly.

Presentation: Arrange the rolls on a serving platter or individual plates with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing: Serve with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness of the rolls.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover rolls, reheat them in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds per roll or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will restore their softness and warmth.

Freezing: If you want to store them for longer, freeze the rolls (without icing) in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above before serving.

Icing Considerations: If possible, add the cream cheese icing just before serving rather than before freezing or storing. This ensures the icing maintains its creamy texture and freshness.

Related Recipes:

• Blueberry Cheesecake Rolls
• Blueberry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls
• Banana Bread Cookies Recipe

FAQs:

Can I make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time by completing the recipe up to the point of baking. After assembling the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. This method is perfect for planning ahead for breakfast or brunch.

Can I freeze Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! To freeze Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, prepare and bake them without the cream cheese icing. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add the cream cheese icing just before serving.

How do I store leftover Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?

Store leftover rolls at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep them covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If you prefer to store them longer, freeze them as described above.

Can I make substitutions in the recipe, such as using whole wheat flour or reducing sugar?

Yes, you can make some substitutions based on your dietary preferences or needs. For instance, you can replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. However, note that whole wheat flour may result in denser rolls. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or filling slightly if you prefer less sweetness. Experiment with these substitutions gradually to achieve the desired taste and texture while maintaining the integrity of the recipe.

Conclusion:

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they’re a testament to the joy of baking. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, these rolls combine the familiar flavors of banana, cinnamon, and creamy icing into a delightful indulgence. For a detailed guide, visit Mel’s Kitchen Cafe and embark on your culinary adventure. Embrace the warmth and sweetness of homemade goodness—happy baking!

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