Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe | Soft & Creamy Delight

If you’re a fan of banana bread and cinnamon rolls, why not enjoy the best of both worlds? These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing combine the comforting flavor of ripe bananas with the warm spice of cinnamon, all topped with a rich and creamy icing. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert, these rolls are soft, fluffy, and absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients Overview

For the Dough:

• Warm Milk: 1 cup (110°F or 43°C, to activate the yeast)
• Active Dry Yeast: 2¼ tsp
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened
• Eggs: 2 large
• Mashed Banana: 1 cup (about 2 medium bananas)
• Salt: 1 tsp
• All-Purpose Flour: 4 cups

The Filling:

• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened
• Brown Sugar: 1 cup
• Ground Cinnamon: 2 tbsp
• Walnuts: ½ cup, chopped (optional)

The Cream Cheese Icing:

• Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened
• Powdered Sugar: 1½ cups
• Vanilla Extract: ½ tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add sugar, softened butter, eggs, mashed bananas, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Work the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and stretchy.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Making the Filling

1. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.

Assembling the Rolls

1. Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
2. Add the Filling: Distribute the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the surface of the dough. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts if using.
3. Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly starting from one long edge to the other. Cut into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Baking the Rolls

1. Let Them Rise Again: Drape a towel over the rolls and allow them to rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Making the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Mix the Icing: Slowly incorporate the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Finishing Touch

1. Ice the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese icing generously over the warm cinnamon rolls before serving.

Helpful Tips

1. Perfect Dough Consistency: For soft and fluffy rolls, ensure the dough is slightly tacky but not sticky. Add the flour gradually to avoid overloading the dough, which can make it dense.
2. Warm Milk for Yeast Activation: The milk should be around 110°F (43°C)—warm to the touch but not hot. Using milk that’s too hot can kill the yeast, while milk that’s too cold won’t activate it properly.
3. Proper Rising Environment: Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free space. If your kitchen is cool, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C), turn it off, and place the covered dough inside for an ideal rising environment.
4. Even Filling Distribution: Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly across the rolled-out dough, ensuring the flavor is consistent in every bite. Soften the butter for easy spreading.
5. Neat Slicing: Use unflavored dental floss or a sharp serrated knife to slice the rolled dough cleanly without squishing it.
6. Prevent Overbaking: Keep an eye on the rolls while they bake. They should be golden brown on top but still soft and tender inside. Overbaking can dry them out.
7. Serve Warm: For the best flavor and texture, serve the rolls warm. If reheating, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds brings back their softness.
8. Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before and let them rise in the fridge overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning for a time-saving option.

Conservation and Storage

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Follow these guidelines to keep your rolls soft and delicious:

1. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to consume the rolls within a day, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them at room temperature.
2. Refrigeration: To keep the rolls fresh for a longer period, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to 3 days. Before serving, reheat the rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore their soft texture and warmth.
3. Freezing Unbaked Rolls: To prepare ahead, assemble and slice the rolls as instructed, but instead of baking, place them on a baking tray and freeze until solid. After freezing, move the rolls into a freezer-safe container or bag for storage. When ready to bake, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then allow them to rise for 30-45 minutes at room temperature before baking.
4. Freezing Baked Rolls: If you have leftovers, freeze the baked rolls without icing. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes before icing.
5. Icing Tips: For best results, add the cream cheese icing after reheating the rolls, as it may melt during storage or reheating.

Variations

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit various tastes and occasions. Here are some delicious variations to try:

1. Chocolate Lovers’ Twist: Add a layer of mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon-sugar filling for an indulgent chocolate-banana flavor combination. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cream cheese icing for extra decadence.
2. Nutty Delight: Swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds in the filling for a different nutty profile. Toast the nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor and add a satisfying crunch.
3. Tropical Flair: Incorporate shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical twist. Pair it with a drizzle of caramel sauce over the finished rolls to elevate the flavor even further.
4. Berry Infusion: Add fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries to the filling. Their slight tartness pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the bananas and cinnamon.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to create a gluten-free version of these rolls. Ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
6. Maple Icing: Replace the cream cheese icing with a maple glaze by mixing powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk. This complements the banana and cinnamon flavors beautifully.
7. Caramel-Banana Rolls: Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce over the dough before adding the cinnamon-sugar filling. The caramel bakes into the rolls, creating a gooey and flavorful layer.
8. Mini Rolls: Roll the dough thinner and cut smaller pieces to create bite-sized versions of these rolls. Perfect for parties or snacking!

Serving Suggestions

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing are a delightful treat that can be served in many ways to suit any occasion. Here are some creative and delicious serving ideas to elevate this dessert:

1. Warm and Fresh: Serve the rolls warm, straight from the oven, with the cream cheese icing melting into the swirls. The warmth enhances their softness and brings out the rich flavors.
2. Breakfast or Brunch: Pair the rolls with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for a comforting breakfast or brunch. For a complete spread, include scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or yogurt on the side.
3. Dessert Indulgence: Transform the rolls into an indulgent dessert by serving them with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
4. Holiday Flair: Make them the star of your holiday table by garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, candied nuts, or edible glitter for a festive touch.
5. On-the-Go Treats: Wrap individual rolls in parchment paper for a portable breakfast or snack. These are perfect for busy mornings or as a treat for lunchboxes.
6. Customizable Buffet: Set up a “cinnamon roll bar” by providing additional toppings like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, fresh berries, or flavored syrups. Guests can customize their rolls to their liking.
7. Special Pairings: Serve the rolls with a warm banana or caramel sauce on the side for dipping. The added flavor makes them even more irresistible.
8. Mini Rolls: Create bite-sized versions for a party or gathering. These smaller rolls are easy to serve and perfect for guests to enjoy without committing to a full-sized portion.

These serving suggestions ensure your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a hit, no matter the occasion!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough without bananas?

Yes, you can omit the bananas, but the flavor and texture will change. The bananas add natural sweetness and moistness to the dough. Without them, you may need to adjust the wet ingredients to maintain the right consistency.

Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight before baking. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven. This is perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.

Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked rolls. For unbaked rolls, slice them and freeze them on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight and bake when needed. For baked rolls, freeze them without icing and add the icing after reheating.

What steps can I take to stop the dough from sticking during rolling?

Use a lightly floured surface and dust the rolling pin with flour to prevent the dough from sticking. Ensure the dough is not too soft or overly sticky before rolling it out.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover rolls?

Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. This restores their softness and warmth.

Can I substitute the cream cheese icing?

Yes, you can use a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract or even a maple glaze for a different flavor profile.

Are there alternatives to walnuts in the filling?

If you prefer not to use walnuts, try pecans, almonds, or skip the nuts entirely. Raisins or chocolate chips also make great additions.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing combine the comforting flavors of ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and creamy icing into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for a special brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply a cozy morning at home, these rolls are a show-stopper that’s guaranteed to impress.

The unique combination of banana bread-inspired dough and classic cinnamon roll filling creates a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, while the cream cheese icing adds a rich and tangy finish. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and loaded with flavor, making every bite a satisfying experience.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the filling with nuts, chocolate chips, or even berries to suit your preferences.

Serving these rolls warm, fresh from the oven, is the ultimate way to enjoy them. Pair them with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for breakfast, or turn them into an indulgent dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless, making these rolls a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

In conclusion, Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic treat that’s sure to please any crowd. Try this recipe today and bring the comforting flavors of banana bread and cinnamon rolls to your table for an unforgettable baking experience!

For a unique take on this recipe, explore the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls from Broma Bakery. It’s a wonderful choice for those who love a creative spin on traditional cinnamon rolls!

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