Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of two beloved treats: the moist, sweet flavor of banana bread and the warm, spiced decadence of cinnamon rolls. This hybrid dessert is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar filling, while the cream cheese frosting adds a creamy finish that makes these rolls utterly irresistible.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe transforms traditional cinnamon rolls by incorporating banana into the dough, creating a soft and flavorful base that’s reminiscent of banana bread. The rolls are filled with a classic cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. They bake up golden brown, with a soft, fluffy interior and a slightly crisp exterior.

Servings: 12 rolls
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 280 kcal

History and Origin

The idea of combining banana bread with cinnamon rolls is a modern twist on classic comfort foods. Banana bread has been a staple in American kitchens since the 1930s, especially during times when frugality was key and overripe bananas needed to be used. Cinnamon rolls, with their origins in Swedish and German baking traditions, have been enjoyed for centuries as a sweet, spiced pastry. Bringing these two together creates a delightful fusion that appeals to those who love the warm, comforting flavors of both.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 ripe bananas, mashed: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the dough, reducing the need for additional sugar.
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough.
1/4 cup (60ml) melted butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
1 large egg: Adds structure and helps bind the dough.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dough rise, making the rolls fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to leaven the dough.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

For the Filling:

1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and texture to the filling.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The key spice for the filling, providing warmth and flavor.
2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the dough.

For the Frosting:

4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy, tangy frosting.
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
2 tablespoons milk: Thins the frosting to a spreadable consistency.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup melted butter, egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold together.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour a clean work surface and turn out the dough onto it. With a rolling pin, gently roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. If the dough sticks, dust it lightly with more flour.

4. Add the Filling

Brush the rolled-out dough with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

5. Form the Rolls

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Be sure to keep the roll as tight as possible to ensure even baking.
Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal slices.

6. Arrange and Bake

Arrange the slices in the prepared baking dish, placing them cut side up. Leave a little space between each roll to allow for expansion during baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through. The tops should be lightly browned, and a toothpick inserted into the center of a roll should come out clean.

7. Prepare the Frosting

While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

8. Frost the Rolls

Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly in the pan for about 5 minutes.
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, ensuring each roll is generously covered.

9. Serve

Serve the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls warm. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are delicious on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of sides and beverages:

Coffee or Tea: The warm spices and sweet banana flavor pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or sliced fruit for a balanced breakfast.
Yogurt Parfait: A light yogurt parfait with granola and honey complements the richness of the rolls.

Variations of the Recipe

Chocolate Chip Banana Cinnamon Rolls: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
Nutty Banana Rolls: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling before rolling up the dough for added crunch and flavor.
Caramel Banana Rolls: Drizzle caramel sauce over the rolls before adding the frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.
Gluten-Free Rolls: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the rolls gluten-free.

Health Benefits and Notes

While these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are an indulgent treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits:

Bananas: Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins B6 and C, bananas contribute to heart health and digestion.
Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, cinnamon also helps regulate blood sugar levels.

However, due to the sugar and butter content, it’s best to enjoy these rolls in moderation.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and roll it out the night before. Cover the unbaked rolls tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Bake them the next morning for fresh, warm rolls.

Q: Can I freeze the rolls?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls. After cutting the dough into slices, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: What if my dough is too sticky?
A: If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it is manageable. However, be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the rolls dense.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser, more nutritious roll. Using all whole wheat flour may make the rolls too heavy.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful and inventive way to enjoy the classic flavors of banana bread and cinnamon rolls in one irresistible treat. The combination of the soft, banana-infused dough with the warm cinnamon filling and creamy frosting makes these rolls a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or as a weekend indulgence, these rolls are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of making these delicious rolls from scratch!