Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

These banana bread cinnamon rolls blend the best parts of two comfort classics into one amazing treat. Picture pillowy-soft swirls with ripe banana in the dough and a sweet cinnamon filling, all blanketed with tangy cream cheese frosting. They are always a hit for lazy weekends or family gatherings whenever something special is in order.

The first time I served these at brunch, everyone asked for the recipe. They disappeared so quickly I had to stash one for myself just to make sure I could enjoy a roll with my coffee.

Ingredients

• Warm milk: Use any milk you have on hand just make sure it is not hot or it can kill the yeast
• Active dry yeast: Always check expiration date for best rise
• Granulated sugar: Adds tenderness and feeds the yeast
• Unsalted butter: Brings richness to both dough and filling choose high quality for best flavor
• Ripe banana: Mash until smooth fully ripe bananas make the rolls sweet and extra moist
• Large egg: Binds everything together use room temperature eggs if possible
• All-purpose flour: I like King Arthur or Gold Medal for reliable texture
• Salt: Balances the sweetness in the dough
• Brown sugar: For the filling it creates gooey caramel notes
• Ground cinnamon: Essential for classic cinnamon roll warmth pick a fresh container for the most aroma
• Cream cheese: For the frosting go for full-fat brick style if available
• Powdered sugar: Gives the frosting a smooth finish sift for lump-free results
• Vanilla extract: Brings depth to the icing use real vanilla for best taste
• Milk: Adjusts the frosting's consistency

When picking bananas use the ones with lots of brown spots—those are the best for intense flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bloom the Yeast:

Mix the warm milk yeast and a bit of sugar in a large bowl Let it sit until foamy This kickstarts your dough

Mix the Dough:

With the milk mixture add remaining sugar melted butter mashed banana egg salt and two cups of flour Stir to combine

Build Up the Flour:

Gradually add the rest of the flour half a cup at a time Stop when the dough is soft and pulls away from the bowl

Knead Until Smooth:

Work the dough on a lightly floured surface for at least eight minutes Knead by hand or use a mixer with a dough hook You want a smooth elastic ball

First Rise:

Set the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a towel Let it rise in a warm cozy spot until doubled This usually takes around an hour

Prepare the Filling:

In a small bowl stir together softened butter brown sugar and cinnamon Make sure to scrape the sides so every bit is well blended

Shape and Fill:

Gently punch down the dough and roll it out into a big even rectangle Spread the filling all the way to the edges leaving a small border

Roll and Slice:

Roll the dough up tightly for beautiful spirals Cut into twelve even pieces

Arrange for Second Rise:

Put your rolls cut side up into a greased baking dish Cover loosely and let them rise again until puffy

Bake:

Heat your oven to the right temperature Place the dish inside and bake until the tops are golden and the kitchen smells amazing

Whip the Frosting:

Beat together softened cream cheese and butter Add powdered sugar vanilla and a splash of milk Mix until the frosting is smooth and creamy

Frost and Serve:

Spread the luscious frosting over the warm rolls There is nothing better than eating them fresh and gooey

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My absolute favorite part is the cinnamon filling because it reminds me of holidays with my grandmother She always added extra cinnamon to her banana bread and that cozy scent brings back the happiest memories

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers pop them in an airtight container on the counter for two days To keep them longer slide the container into the fridge for up to five days Reheat in the microwave or wrap loosely in foil and warm in the oven for that fresh-baked taste

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in whole wheat flour for one cup of the all-purpose variety if you want a heartier result For the frosting dairy-free butter and cream cheese will work just fine If you are low on bananas try cooked mashed sweet potato for a new twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls with a side of fresh fruit or alongside scrambled eggs for a balanced brunch Sometimes I add a drizzle of maple syrup or scatter toasted pecans on top when serving to a crowd They are also wonderful with a cup of strong hot coffee

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Cultural Context

Banana bread was a Depression-era creation born from a need to reduce waste Over generations it has become a staple in American home baking These rolls take that classic comfort and spin it into something fit for holidays and special mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How ripe should bananas be for this dough?

Very ripe bananas with brown spots provide the best sweetness and easy mashing.

→ Can I make the rolls ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate unbaked rolls overnight. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

→ Is a stand mixer necessary for kneading?

No, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.

→ What substitutions work for the frosting?

You can swap cream cheese for mascarpone or try a simple vanilla glaze if preferred.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Warm gently before eating for best texture.