Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Welcome to a delightful twist on a classic favorite! If you’ve ever found yourself torn between craving banana bread and cinnamon rolls, you’re in for a treat. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the moist, sweet flavors of ripe bananas with the warm, comforting essence of cinnamon rolls, creating a treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. With a gooey cinnamon filling and a luscious glaze, these rolls are sure to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Ingredients

For these delightful rolls, you’ll need the following:

Dough:
1½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
4 cups all-purpose flour
2½ teaspoons instant yeast
¼ cup sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk, warm
¼ cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling:
½ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
¼ cup butter, softened

Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls

Directions and Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast, warm milk, and sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly—this means your yeast is alive and ready to do its magic!
Add in the mashed bananas, melted butter, vanilla extract, flour, and salt. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes. Once kneaded, cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm space for 1 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Once risen, roll the dough out onto a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter for the filling evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture generously.
Carefully roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are nicely spaced. Cover again and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and watch it melt into every nook and cranny.

Notes or Tips

For best results, make sure your bananas are very ripe; the darker, the better, as they add natural sweetness. If you prefer a more intense cinnamon flavor, feel free to add a pinch more to the filling. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their softness, or they can be frozen for up to a month!

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses a basic dough-making technique that is approachable even for beginners. The kneading process helps develop gluten, giving the rolls their soft texture. Additionally, allowing the dough to rise properly ensures that your rolls are fluffy and airy. The technique of rolling and slicing the dough creates those beautiful swirls that everyone loves in cinnamon rolls.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added nutrition.
What can I use instead of instant yeast? You can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it in warm water before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use coconut oil or a plant-based butter for the filling and glaze.

Conclusion

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are sure to steal the show, offering a unique combination of flavors and textures that are irresistible. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a lovely afternoon treat, each bite will leave you craving more. So go ahead, bake a batch, and watch as smiles spread all around your table!