Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of both worlds: the moist, sweet flavor of banana bread and the gooey, spiced swirl of a classic cinnamon roll. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and infused with ripe banana for natural sweetness and depth. The filling is a buttery blend of cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of nutmeg, while the dough is enriched with mashed banana and a touch of vanilla. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy dessert. They’re a delightful way to use overripe bananas and elevate your baking game with a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 cup (240g) mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to thin, as needed)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If using instant yeast, you can skip the proofing and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, vanilla, and the yeast mixture. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface or with a dough hook for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough will be slightly sticky due to the banana but should pull away from the sides of the bowl.
3. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside. Soften the butter so it’s easily spreadable.
5. Roll and Fill
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about 16×12 inches. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, pressing it gently into the butter.
6. Shape the Rolls
Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or two 9-inch round pans.
7. Second Rise
Cover the rolls loosely and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until puffy and touching.
8. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22–28 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 5 minutes.
9. Make the Glaze
While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
10. Frost and Serve
Spread the glaze over the warm rolls right out of the oven for a melty finish, or wait until they cool slightly for a thicker layer. Serve warm and enjoy the banana bread-cinnamon roll magic!
Tips for Success:
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling before rolling.
- These rolls can be made ahead: refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight and bake fresh in the morning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or chai for a cozy breakfast.
- Serve with fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait for brunch.
- Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical flair.
Would you like a version with chocolate chips or a maple glaze next? I’d love to help you customize it!