Hello, fellow baking enthusiasts! There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting scent of fresh-baked goods filling your home, is there? For years, I’ve been on a mission to create desserts that not only taste incredible but also bring people together, sparking smiles and happy memories.
Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share a recipe that does just that. We’re combining two of the most beloved comfort foods into one irresistible treat: banana bread cinnamon rolls. Imagine the soft, moist texture of your favorite banana bread—whether it’s a classic recipe, a lighter 4-Ingredient Healthy Banana Bread, or even one made with Banana Bread with Olive Oil—swirled with gooey cinnamon sugar, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
These aren’t just ordinary cinnamon rolls; they’re a decadent twist that perfectly marries the best of both worlds. Whether it’s for a cozy weekend breakfast, a special brunch, or simply a treat to brighten someone’s day, these banana bread cinnamon rolls are sure to be a new favorite. Let’s get baking and create something truly unforgettable!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Amazing Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Alright, now that we’re all excited about these amazing banana bread cinnamon rolls, let’s get our ingredients ready! Gathering everything before you start is like setting the stage for a masterpiece. It makes the baking process so much smoother and more enjoyable.
Using good quality ingredients really makes a difference, especially when it comes to key parts like those perfectly ripe bananas and fresh yeast. They are essential for the ultimate soft texture and delicious flavor of your banana bread cinnamon rolls.
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Rapid Rise yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup mashed overripe banana
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Baking Bliss: Step-by-Step Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Now for the fun part! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to baking a batch of the most delicious banana bread cinnamon rolls you’ve ever tasted. Remember, baking is an art, but it’s also a science – so following these steps closely will help you achieve those perfect, soft, and gooey rolls every time.
Step 1: Get Your Dough Started
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, yeast, ground cinnamon, and salt. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the milk and butter together until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (about 105-115°F). Stir in the mashed overripe banana. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 2: Knead for Perfection
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. The texture should be a bit sticky, yet easy to handle. This kneading develops the gluten, making your banana bread cinnamon rolls wonderfully soft and tender.
Step 3: First Rise – Let It Grow!
Lightly grease a large bowl. Place your dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Set it in a cozy, draft-free area to rise for 60 to 90 minutes, or until it’s doubled. This crucial step ensures you get light and fluffy banana bread cinnamon rolls.
Step 4: Make the Delicious Filling
While your dough is rising, prepare the amazing cinnamon sugar filling. In a small bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a tiny pinch of salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Roll and Spread
When the dough has risen fully, gently deflate it by pressing it down. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches. Spread the prepared cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border on one of the long edges.
Step 6: Roll ‘Em Up!
Begin at one long edge and roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Try to keep it as even as possible for uniform banana bread cinnamon rolls. Pinch the seam closed firmly to seal the roll.
Step 7: Slice and Arrange
Using a sharp, un-serrated knife or a piece of unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices, about 1 1/2 inches thick. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the sliced banana bread cinnamon rolls into the prepared dish, leaving a little space between each roll so they can expand.
Step 8: Second Rise – Almost There!
Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they look puffy and have almost doubled in size again. During the last 15 minutes of this rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the banana bread cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing, letting you know they’re almost ready!
Step 10: Whip Up the Frosting
While the rolls are baking or cooling slightly, it’s time to make the luscious frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until they are completely smooth. Add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth. This cinnamon cream cheese frosting is the perfect final touch for your delightful banana bread cinnamon rolls.
Step 11: Frost and Enjoy!
As soon as your banana bread cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, generously spread the warm cinnamon cream cheese frosting over them. The warmth of the rolls will slightly melt the frosting, making it wonderfully gooey and irresistible. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite!
Chef’s Secrets for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Over years of baking, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. These little secrets will help you master your banana bread cinnamon rolls, ensuring they’re as perfect as can be. From banana ripeness to handling the dough, these tips will truly elevate your baking game.
Tip 1: The Magic of Ripe Bananas
Always use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for your banana bread cinnamon rolls. They are much sweeter and easier to mash, giving your rolls that deep, delicious banana flavor and extra moisture. Under-ripe bananas just won’t give you the same amazing result!
Tip 2: Temperature Matters
Make sure your milk is warm but not hot (about 105-115°F or 40-46°C). This helps activate the yeast without accidentally killing it. Also, having your butter and cream cheese at room temperature for the frosting ensures a wonderfully smooth, lump-free mixture.
Tip 3: Don’t Over-Flour
When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge. Don’t scoop directly from the bag, as this packs the flour down. Too much flour can lead to dense, dry banana bread rolls instead of soft, fluffy ones.
Tip 4: No Over-Kneading
Kneading is important for soft banana bread cinnamon rolls because it builds strength in the dough. However, over-kneading can make your rolls tough. Work the dough only until it feels soft and elastic to the touch. If using a stand mixer, stop as soon as the dough pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl.
Possible Substitutions
Want to try some changes? For a dairy-free version of your banana bread cinnamon rolls, you can swap out regular milk for plant-based milk and use vegan butter. A plant-based cream cheese alternative also works great for the frosting. If you don’t have brown sugar for the filling, granulated sugar can be used, though brown sugar adds a richer, deeper flavor.
Recipe Variations
One of the best parts about baking is getting creative! While these banana bread cinnamon rolls are absolutely amazing just as they are, here are some fun ideas to make them uniquely yours. Feel free to experiment and find your new favorite twist!
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Rolls
For an extra sweet treat, sprinkle about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips right over the cinnamon filling before you roll up the dough. This adds delightful melted chocolate pockets throughout your banana bread rolls for even more indulgence.
Nutty Banana Cinnamon Buns
If you love a little crunch, add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon filling. This brings a wonderful nutty flavor and delightful texture to your banana cinnamon buns. You can even lightly toast the nuts first to make their flavor pop!
Caramel Drizzle
For an extra decadent touch, consider drizzling warm caramel sauce over the baked banana bread cinnamon rolls. You can do this instead of, or even in addition to, the cream cheese frosting for an extra special treat.
Spice It Up
Want to boost the warm, cozy flavors? Enhance the spice profile by adding a tiny pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon filling. These spices really complement the sweet banana flavor in your banana bread cinnamon rolls, making them even more aromatic.
Personal Story: My Journey with Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Every recipe has a story behind it, and these banana bread cinnamon rolls are truly special to me. Growing up, my grandma always had a fresh batch of banana bread sitting on her kitchen counter, ready for a snack. And during holiday mornings, the comforting smell of classic cinnamon rolls baking was a staple, pulling me right into the kitchen, eager to help.
As I got older and started my own kitchen experiments, I often wondered how I could bring those two cherished childhood memories together. One rainy afternoon, with a bowl of perfectly ripe, spotty bananas staring at me and a strong craving for something sweet and comforting, the idea finally sparked: why not combine the moist, sweet goodness of banana bread with a classic cinnamon roll?
The very first batch of these banana bread cinnamon rolls was a revelation! The entire house smelled absolutely incredible, a mix of warm banana and spicy cinnamon. And the taste? Pure magic. They were an instant hit with my family, disappearing almost as soon as they cooled. Seeing their happy faces light up with each bite reminded me why I love baking so much. It’s more than just ingredients; it’s about creating warmth, connection, and those sweet, lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I love answering your baking questions! Here are some common inquiries about banana bread and cinnamon rolls that might pop up as you make your own batch of banana bread cinnamon rolls.
What is the number one mistake made when making banana bread?
The number one mistake is almost always overmixing the batter. When you mix too much, you develop too much gluten. This can make your banana bread tough and chewy instead of wonderfully tender and moist. For the dough in these banana bread cinnamon rolls, gentle mixing and proper kneading are super important to keep them soft.
What is a dirty cinnamon roll?
“Dirty cinnamon roll” isn’t a standard or official baking term in professional kitchens that I know of. It might be a fun, playful way to describe a cinnamon roll that’s extra messy with lots of frosting or sticky filling! Perhaps it refers to a roll so loaded with goodness it makes a delightful mess, which can definitely happen with extra gooey banana bread cinnamon rolls.
Should you add cinnamon to banana bread?
Absolutely, yes! While some classic banana bread recipes might not include it, adding cinnamon truly enhances the warm, comforting flavors of the banana and brown sugar. It brings an aromatic spice that perfectly complements the sweetness without overpowering the natural banana flavor. It’s a wonderful addition, especially in these banana bread cinnamon rolls where it helps tie all the delicious flavors together.
What is the secret to fluffy cinnamon rolls?
The secret to fluffy cinnamon rolls lies in a few key steps. First, use active yeast and make sure your liquids (like milk) are warm but not hot. Second, proper kneading develops the right amount of gluten for structure, but don’t over-knead! Third, and perhaps most importantly, allow for two sufficient rise times in a warm, draft-free place. This lets the yeast create those lovely airy pockets. Lastly, don’t overbake! Pulling them from the oven when they’re golden but still soft keeps them wonderfully tender, just like perfect banana bread cinnamon rolls.
How do I store leftover banana bread cinnamon rolls?
If you happen to have any leftovers (it’s rare, I know!), store your banana bread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container. They’ll be good at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best gooey experience, warm them slightly in the microwave before enjoying them again.
Can I prep banana bread cinnamon rolls ahead for later baking?
Yes, you definitely can! To prepare them ahead, after arranging the sliced rolls in your baking dish (Step 7), cover them tightly with plastic wrap and pop them in the refrigerator overnight (up to 12-16 hours). The next morning, take them out of the fridge about 30-60 minutes before you plan to bake. This lets them come to room temperature and finish their final rise before baking as usual. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy fresh banana bread cinnamon rolls for breakfast without all the morning fuss!
Conclusion: Share the Warmth of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
And there you have it! A beautiful batch of warm, fragrant, and utterly delicious banana bread cinnamon rolls just waiting to be devoured. Baking these rolls is more than just following steps; it’s about creating moments of joy and sharing comfort with the people you love.
I truly hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Don’t be afraid to get your hands a little messy, embrace the process, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of pulling these golden, gooey banana bread cinnamon rolls from the oven. Happy baking, friends, and enjoy every sweet bite!
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Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 185 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Soft, gooey banana bread cinnamon rolls swirled with sweet filling and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. A delightful dessert or breakfast treat.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons Rapid Rise yeast
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup mashed overripe banana
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:
1/3 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
2 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, yeast, ground cinnamon, and salt. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the milk and butter together until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm (about 105-115°F). Stir in the mashed overripe banana. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. It should be slightly sticky but still manageable. This kneading develops the gluten, making your banana bread cinnamon rolls wonderfully soft and tender.
3. Lightly grease a large bowl. Place your dough in the bowl, turning it once to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This crucial step ensures you get light and fluffy banana bread cinnamon rolls.
4. While your dough is rising, prepare the amazing cinnamon sugar filling. In a small bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a tiny pinch of salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Once your dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches. Spread the prepared cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border on one of the long edges.
6. Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log. Try to keep it as even as possible for uniform banana bread cinnamon rolls. Pinch the seam closed firmly to seal the roll.
7. Using a sharp, un-serrated knife or a piece of unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices, about 1 1/2 inches thick. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the sliced banana bread cinnamon rolls into the prepared dish, leaving a little space between each roll so they can expand.
8. Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until they look puffy and have almost doubled in size again. During the last 15 minutes of this rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake the banana bread cinnamon rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing, letting you know they’re almost ready!
10. While the rolls are baking or cooling slightly, it’s time to make the luscious frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until they are completely smooth. Add the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth. This cinnamon cream cheese frosting is the perfect final touch for your delightful banana bread cinnamon rolls.
11. As soon as your banana bread cinnamon rolls come out of the oven, generously spread the warm cinnamon cream cheese frosting over them. The warmth of the rolls will slightly melt the frosting, making it wonderfully gooey and irresistible. Serve immediately and savor every delicious bite!
Notes
Tip 1: The Magic of Ripe Bananas: Always use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. They are sweeter and easier to mash, giving deep banana flavor and extra moisture.
Tip 2: Temperature Matters: Ensure milk is warm (105-115°F / 40-46°C) to activate yeast properly. Butter and cream cheese should be at room temperature for smooth frosting.
Tip 3: Don’t Over-Flour: Spoon flour into measuring cup and level off; don’t scoop directly from bag.
Tip 4: No Over-Kneading: Knead until dough is smooth and elastic; stop if using a stand mixer once dough pulls away from bowl sides.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: banana bread cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls, banana bread, cream cheese frosting, homemade rolls, sweet rolls, breakfast pastry, baking recipe, comfort food, easy cinnamon rolls, banana buns