Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls 🍌

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of fresh baked goods wafting through the house, especially when it involves bananas and cinnamon. This Banana Bread Cinnamon Roll recipe is one that my family looks forward to, particularly on lazy Sunday mornings. The delightful combination of flavors and textures brings together the sweetness of bananas with the warmth of cinnamon, all wrapped in a soft, fluffy roll. Each bite is a heavenly experience that has become a cherished family tradition. As the rolls bake, the aroma fills the kitchen, making it nearly impossible to wait for them to cool before digging in!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (helps activate the yeast)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (feeds the yeast and sweetens the dough)
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter (adds richness)
• 2 large eggs (provides structure)
• 1 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (forms the structure of the rolls)
• 1 cup mashed banana (about 2-3 medium bananas, adds moisture and sweetness)

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (helps the filling stick)
• 1 cup brown sugar (adds a caramel-like flavor)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (provides classic cinnamon roll spice)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional, adds crunch)

For the Icing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened (adds creaminess)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (adds richness)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sweetens and thickens the icing)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast

In a large bowl, mix warm milk with yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, ensuring your dough will rise properly.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana to the yeast mixture. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. The banana not only adds sweetness but also keeps the dough moist and tender.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring until the dough starts to come together. Once it forms a cohesive dough, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading helps develop the gluten, giving your rolls a nice chewy texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This first rise is important for developing flavor and texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until you have a smooth, spreadable paste. If you’re using walnuts, have them ready to sprinkle over the filling.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a 20×14-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the filling if you’re using them.

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Starting from the long side of the rectangle, roll the dough up tightly into a log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a bit of space between each roll for expansion.

Step 8: Second Rise

Cover the baking dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise again for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This second rise allows the rolls to become fluffy and ensures they will bake evenly.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The aroma of baking cinnamon and banana will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 10: Prepare the Icing

While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 11: Ice and Serve

Spread the icing over the warm rolls right after they come out of the oven, allowing it to melt into the crevices. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 kcal (depending on the use of nuts and icing)
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 15g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour + 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours

How to Serve

• Warm Rolls: Serve immediately after baking for the best texture.
• With Icing: Drizzle or spread cream cheese icing over each roll.
• Toppings: Consider adding crushed walnuts or additional cinnamon sugar on top.
• Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or brunch.

Additional Tips

1. Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your rolls will be.
2. Don’t Skip the First Rise: Allowing the dough to rise fully develops the flavor and texture.
3. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing.
4. Experiment with Fillings: Try adding chocolate chips or different nuts for variation.
5. Adjust Icing to Taste: Feel free to modify the sweetness of the icing by adjusting the powdered sugar.

Recipe Variations

• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or replace them with another nut of choice.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute non-dairy milk and margarine to make it dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
• Banana Nutella Rolls: Replace the cinnamon filling with Nutella for a chocolate twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Perfect as a hearty breakfast option.
• Brunch: Great for brunch gatherings or holidays.
• Dessert: Serve warm with ice cream for a delicious dessert.
• Gift Idea: Wrap in a decorative box for a thoughtful gift.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked rolls by placing them in a baking dish, covering them tightly, and freezing. When ready to bake, allow them to thaw and rise for about 1-2 hours before baking.
• Icing: It’s best to ice the rolls just before serving for a fresh taste. You can freeze the rolls without icing, then thaw and ice when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen bananas?

• Yes, thaw and drain frozen bananas before mashing.

1. What if my dough doesn’t rise?

• Ensure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm but not too hot.

1. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

1. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

• They should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

1. Can I skip the icing?

• Absolutely! The rolls are delicious on their own, but the icing adds a nice touch.

1. How do I store leftover rolls?

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

1. Can I use a bread machine for this recipe?

• Yes, you can use a bread machine for the dough cycle, then follow the instructions from Step 6 onward.

1. What can I substitute for eggs?

• Use flaxseed meal or applesauce as a replacement for eggs.

1. How can I make these rolls more festive?

• Add holiday spices like nutmeg or ginger to the filling or icing.

1. What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?
   • You can substitute with bread flour or a gluten-free flour mix, but the texture may vary.

Conclusion

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are not just a breakfast item; they’re a deliciously indulgent treat that can brighten up any day. The combination of fluffy, banana-infused dough with the sweet cinnamon filling and creamy icing creates a harmonious blend that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy with family, these rolls are sure to impress and satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the warm aroma of banana and cinnamon fill your home

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