Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the warm milk with the active dry yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Knead on a lightly floured surface for approximately 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- To make the filling, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring 20×14 inches. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough and sprinkle with walnuts if desired.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut it into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish.
- Cover the rolls and let them rise again for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown.
- For the icing, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread it over the warm rolls before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are delightful served warm out of the oven, made even more special with a generous drizzle of cream cheese icing. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or brunch experience. For a heartier meal, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. Looking to elevate your brunch game? They would also make a fantastic centerpiece for any holiday brunch table, enticing guests with their aroma and inviting appearance.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing leftover Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls is easy! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have more left over, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for 2-3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm, or place them in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly-baked taste.
Helpful cooking tips
To ensure your rolls rise beautifully, make sure your yeast is active. A quick test can be done by dissolving it in warm milk with sugar; if it bubbles, it’s ready! Don’t skip the kneading step—this helps develop gluten, which gives the rolls their structure. If you’re in a rush, let them rise in a warm oven or in a sunny spot for quicker results. And remember, these rolls are best enjoyed fresh; they lose some of their charm after a day.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap the walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nutty flavor, or fold in chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate-banana experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a scoop of peanut butter into the filling for a delicious flavor combination. For a simpler version, skip the icing and just sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top before serving for a lovely finishing touch.
Common questions
What is the prep time?
Prep time for these delicious rolls is about 25 minutes, but don’t forget to account for rising times!
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
How do I know when they are done baking?
Your rolls are ready when they are golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Can I substitute the banana?
You can replace the mashed banana with pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile.
With these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll have a new family favorite that combines some of the best elements of comfort food. Enjoy the process and savor the results!
