These fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a sweet treat that combines the taste of ripe bananas with cinnamon goodness, all rolled into a cozy bite-sized breakfast. Topped with creamy frosting, they’re simply delightful!
Honestly, who can resist the smells of cinnamon and bananas baking in the oven? 🍌 It’s like a breakfast hug! I love having these warm rolls with my morning coffee—it’s a perfect way to start the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ripe Bananas: The more ripe your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your rolls will be! If you don’t have ripe ones, placing them in a paper bag for a day can speed up the ripening process. You can also use applesauce if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option that still adds moisture.
Active Dry Yeast: This is key for making the rolls fluffy and light. If you don’t have this, you can use instant yeast instead—just mix it directly with the dry ingredients. You can also try a non-yeast version by using baking powder, but the texture and rise will be different.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here. If you’re gluten-free, a gluten-free all-purpose blend can be used, but be sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. A personal tip—using a bit of whole wheat flour can add a nice flavor while still keeping them soft.
Cream Cheese: For the frosting, I’m partial to full-fat cream cheese for richness. If you want a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute. Dairy-free cream cheese is also available for any dairy-free folks.
How Do I Make the Dough Light and Fluffy?
The trick to getting soft and fluffy dough is in the kneading and proofing. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic—this develops the gluten which helps the rolls rise. If your dough feels too wet, add a little flour as you knead, but don’t overdo it.
- Make sure your yeast is fresh—expired yeast won’t rise.
- Let your dough rise in a warm spot, like inside the oven (turned off) or a sunny window, covered to prevent drying out.
- After shaping the rolls, give them a second rise to puff up. This key step helps ensure they’re fluffy after baking.
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation, followed by around 2 hours for the dough to rise. After that, baking the cinnamon rolls takes about 30 minutes. Overall, you’re looking at roughly 2.5 hours, but most of that time is just waiting for the dough to proof. The delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix together warm milk (about 110°F/43°C) with the yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go!
2. Prepare the Dough Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the mashed bananas, melted butter, the remaining sugars (granulated and brown), egg, and vanilla extract until everything is nicely combined and smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the yeast mixture into the banana mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough comes together.
4. Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 6-8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as you knead.
5. First Proof:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm place to rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
6. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Keep the softened butter handy for spreading later!
7. Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down, then turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 16 by 12 inches. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but aim for even thickness.
8. Add the Filling:
Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough rectangle. Then, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top of the butter.
9. Form the Rolls:
Start rolling the dough tightly from the long side into a log shape. Pinch the seam closed to keep everything together.
10. Cut the Rolls:
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Try to be gentle so you don’t squish the rolls!
11. Second Proof:
Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they have a bit of space between them. Cover loosely and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
12. Preheat the Oven:
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
13. Bake:
Bake the cinnamon rolls for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
14. Prepare the Frosting:
As the rolls are baking, you can make the cream cheese frosting. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until creamy and spreadable.
15. Frost the Rolls:
When the rolls are slightly cooled but still warm, slather the cream cheese frosting generously on top. It will melt into those warm rolls and make them even more scrumptious!
16. Serve:
Enjoy your banana bread cinnamon rolls warm, with a cup of coffee or tea. These delightful rolls are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack any time of day!
This recipe beautifully combines the flavors of banana bread and cinnamon rolls, all topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Your family and friends won’t be able to resist these delightful cinnamon rolls!
FAQ for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I Use Frozen Bananas in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work well in this recipe. Just thaw them completely, drain any excess liquid, and mash them before adding. They should still provide that nice moisture and sweetness!
What If I Don’t Have Active Dry Yeast?
You can substitute with instant yeast, which can be added directly to the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in warm milk. Alternatively, you could use quick-rise yeast following the same method, but keep in mind that rising times may vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and fill & roll the cinnamon rolls ahead of time. Just place them in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate after the first proof. Let them come to room temperature and rise for about 30 minutes before baking when you’re ready to enjoy them!
