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Banana Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: A Perfect Twist on a Classic


  • Author: ARLINDA
  • Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time).
  • Yield: 12 rolls (serves 6-8 people) 1x

Description

These banana cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll recipe, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. Soft, fluffy, and decadent, these rolls are perfect for a weekend breakfast, a special brunch, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something sweet. The bananas add moisture to the dough, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the cinnamon filling brings a comforting aroma that will fill your kitchen. Drizzle with a simple cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 eggs
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

For the Cinnamon Filling:

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  • Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and salt to the mixture, stirring well.
  • Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Make the Cinnamon Filling:

  • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon.
  • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
  • Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
  • Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered dough, ensuring an even coating.

3. Form the Rolls:

  • Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal.
  • Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal-sized pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss.

4. Second Rise and Baking:

  • Place the rolled cinnamon rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
  • Cover the dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.

5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • While the rolls are baking, beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and milk, adjusting the consistency as needed.

6. Serve:

  • Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
  • Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.
  • Serve and enjoy!

Notes:

    • Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter the rolls will be. Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe as they provide natural sweetness and moisture.
    • Dough Texture: If the dough feels too sticky, add small amounts of flour at a time. It should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky.
    • Yeast Tips: Ensure that your yeast is active by proofing it in warm milk. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired, and you’ll need to use fresh yeast.
    • Frosting Variation: If you prefer a lighter glaze, you can replace the cream cheese frosting with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
    • Make-Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and refrigerate them overnight before baking. Let them come to room temperature before baking for the best results.

Notes

Yeast Tips: Ensure that your yeast is active by proofing it in warm milk. If the yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired, and you’ll need to use fresh yeast.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg