As the morning sun streams through my kitchen window, I can’t resist the warm, inviting scent that wafts through the air. It’s the perfect moment to pull out my recipe for Banana Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Icing. These delightful rolls marry the comfort of banana bread with the decadence of fluffy cinnamon rolls, creating a brunch treat that’s sure to impress. The banana dough, combined with a sweet cinnamon filling and topped with creamy icing, makes for a special indulgence—and the best part? They’re surprisingly easy to whip up! Imagine your loved ones gathering around the table, joyfully tasting these soft, spiced rolls that are simply irresistible. Are you ready to fill your home with this delicious aroma? Let’s dive into this recipe together!
Why Are These Rolls So Irresistible?
Unforgettable Flavor: Each roll is infused with the comforting taste of ripe bananas and warm cinnamon, making them a standout breakfast treat.
Easy to Make: With a straightforward process, even beginner bakers can create these soft, fluffy rolls with ease.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a leisurely brunch or a special celebration, these rolls will impress friends and family alike.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize! Add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist, or try drizzling caramel sauce for a richer treat.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare them in advance and refrigerate overnight for a quick bake in the morning, perfect for busy weekends!
Let the delicious aroma of these Banana Cinnamon Rolls waft through your home—who could resist such a divine creation? If you love cinnamon-inspired goodies, you may also enjoy my delightful Warm Cinnamon Spiced Apple Bread for a cozy treat.
Banana Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create these heavenly rolls.
For the Dough
- Milk – provides moisture and activates yeast; use almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Active Dry Yeast – a leavening agent crucial for rise; ensure yeast is fresh for best results.
- Large Egg – acts as a binder and enriches the dough; can be substituted with a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Mashed Bananas – adds flavor, moisture, and natural sweetness; use ripe bananas for the best taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – forms the structure of the dough; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if allergies are a concern.
- Salt – enhances flavor and controls yeast fermentation; don’t omit for balance.
- Granulated Sugar – sweetens the dough; can be reduced for a less sweet option.
- Unsalted Butter – provides richness and tenderness to the rolls; use coconut oil as a dairy-free substitute.
For the Filling
- Brown Sugar – adds deep sweetness and slight molasses flavor; coconut sugar is a great lower glycemic index alternative.
- Ground Cinnamon – imparts a warm, spicy flavor; can be swapped with pumpkin spice for an autumn twist.
For the Icing
- Cream Cheese – serves as the base for the icing, providing creaminess and tang; soy cream cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
- Powdered Sugar – sweetens and thickens the icing; sift for a smoother texture.
- Vanilla Extract – enhances the flavor of the icing; always use pure vanilla for the best results.
Get ready to enjoy the comforting and nostalgic flavors of these Banana Cinnamon Rolls—perfect for brightening any breakfast or brunch!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Prepare Yeast Mixture
Begin by heating 1 cup of milk to 110°F, ensuring it’s warm but not scalding to touch. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial for activating the yeast, which gives your Banana Cinnamon Rolls that delightful rise.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Use a pastry cutter to cut in ¼ cup of cubed unsalted butter, mixing until you achieve a crumbly texture resembling coarse sand. This mixture forms the foundation of your dough, ready for the banana goodness to come.
Step 3: Form Dough
Once your yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with 1 large egg and 1 cup of mashed ripe bananas. Mix until fully combined, then turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, indicating it’s ready for the first rise.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm, turned-off oven for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is vital for achieving fluffy Banana Cinnamon Rolls, so don’t rush the process—trust the rise to create that perfect texture.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by beating together ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy, creating a delicious filling that will swirl through your delightful rolls.
Step 6: Roll Dough
After the first rise, punch down the dough gently and transfer it to a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the prepared filling evenly across the surface, then layer with 1 cup of sliced bananas. Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other to form a log.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 baking dish, ensuring they’re spaced evenly. Cover the dish with a cloth and allow the rolls to rise for an additional 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F. This second rise will help the Banana Cinnamon Rolls puff up beautifully!
Step 8: Bake
Once preheated, bake the rolls in the oven for 28-33 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the tops are lightly crisped. Keep an eye on them during the final minutes to avoid overbaking, as you want the rolls to remain soft and tender for the best results.
Step 9: Make Icing
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese icing by beating together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy. This sweet topping is the perfect finishing touch to your warm Banana Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 10: Ice and Serve
Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the luscious cream cheese icing generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly for extra sweetness. The delightful aroma and flavors will fill your kitchen, making every bite of the Banana Cinnamon Rolls a truly comforting experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy mornings and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and complete all steps up to the second rise up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the rolls and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then pop them in the oven for that warm, irresistible aroma. Additionally, you can freeze the rolls before baking; just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and follow the second rise instructions before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, fluffy, and just-as-delicious Banana Cinnamon Rolls with minimal morning effort!
Storage Tips for Banana Cinnamon Rolls
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Room Temperature: Keep the rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain their softness and freshness.
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-25 seconds to enjoy them warm again.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Banana Cinnamon Rolls before baking. Simply allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, then follow the second rise and baking instructions.
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Reheating: If stored in the fridge or freezer, reheat in the microwave or oven, ensuring they are warmed through for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Expert Tips for Banana Cinnamon Rolls
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Proof Yeast: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh by proofing it in warm milk. A frothy layer on top means it’s ready to go!
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Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it passes the “windowpane test.” This ensures gluten develops, resulting in beautifully fluffy Banana Cinnamon Rolls.
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Use Ripe Bananas: Choose very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor in your dough. They’ll give the rolls an irresistible taste!
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Overnight Convenience: Prepare your rolls up to the second rise, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh in the morning to impress guests with ease.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake, and pull them out when golden brown but still soft. Overbaking can lead to dry rolls—don’t let that happen!
What to Serve with Banana Cinnamon Rolls
Warm and flavorful, these delightful rolls are perfect for bringing smiles at breakfast or brunch.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens the flavors and adds vibrant colors to your brunch spread.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, seasoned eggs provide a protein-packed counterpart, balancing the sweetness of the rolls. Pair them for a satisfying meal.
- Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds a refreshing touch, enhancing the rolls without overpowering their sweetness—perfect for cooling any spice from the cinnamon.
- Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the comforting flavors, creating an inviting atmosphere as you enjoy your meal together.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle brings an extra layer of sweetness and richness that pairs beautifully with the banana and cinnamon taste.
- Glazed Carrots or Sweet Potatoes: For a deliciously unexpected side, the subtle sweetness of roasted carrots or sweet potatoes enhances the comfort of the rolls.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Sautéed sliced apples in cinnamon offer an appealing side that connects the warm, spiced flavors you love without overshadowing the main delight.
- Chocolate Milk or Shake: A nostalgic twist, rich chocolate milk or a shake adds a fun, indulgent element—perfect for dessert lovers!
- Cream Cheese Glaze on Pancakes: Elevate buttered pancakes with any leftover cream cheese icing for a truly decadent brunch experience.
- Fruit Smoothie: A chilled, fruity smoothie rounds off your meal pleasantly, adding both freshness and a pop of color that tempts the taste buds.
Banana Cinnamon Rolls Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore exciting twists with these delectable rolls that will bring a smile to anyone’s face!
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra nutrition and a nutty flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans in the filling for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the softness of the rolls.
- Choco-Banana Twist: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips with the filling for a rich, indulgent treat that takes your rolls to the next level.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cream cheese icing for an extra sweet touch that adds depth to the flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice: Swap ground cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a seasonal spin that encapsulates all the warmth of fall.
- Vegan Friendly: Use flax eggs and coconut oil to easily transform this recipe into a delicious dairy-free and egg-free version.
- Cinnamon Swirls: For added visual appeal, create a pinwheel effect by layering banana slices within the rolls—who doesn’t love a beautiful swirl?
- Extra Creamy Icing: For a creamier icing, blend in a touch of sour cream into your cream cheese frosting for a delightful tang.
Let your kitchen be the canvas for creativity! While you’re at it, why not check out my delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls for another warm, comforting experience?
Banana Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas work best for the dough?
Absolutely, for the best flavor, use very ripe bananas that are heavily speckled or even mostly brown. These bananas are sweeter and will naturally enhance the moisture and flavor of the dough.
How should I store Banana Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your delicious rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Don’t forget to warm them in the microwave for 15-25 seconds before serving to enjoy that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience again!
Can I freeze Banana Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! You can absolutely freeze the rolls before baking. Simply prepare them up to the second rise, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then let them rise for about 20 minutes and bake as instructed.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough fails to rise, it might be due to inactive yeast. To troubleshoot, ensure your yeast is fresh by proofing it in warm milk (110°F) until frothy. If it doesn’t foam up, it’s likely that your yeast is expired—don’t worry; it happens! You’ll need to start with fresh yeast for your next batch.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you’re looking to make these Banana Cinnamon Rolls suitable for a vegan diet, simply substitute the large egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until gel-like) and use plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives. Additionally, be mindful of nut allergies when considering toppings or fillings—nuts can add a delicious crunch, but always check with your guests first!
What can I do to prevent my rolls from being dry?
To ensure soft, fluffy Banana Cinnamon Rolls, avoid overbaking them! Keep a close eye during the final minutes, pulling them out once they are golden brown and soft to the touch. Proper kneading and allowing sufficient rise time will also help maintain that perfect texture. Don’t rush it; good things take time!
These FAQs will help you navigate any concerns you might have while making your delightful Banana Cinnamon Rolls. Happy baking!
Irresistible Banana Cinnamon Rolls to Brighten Your Breakfast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat milk to 110°F. Sprinkle yeast over and let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in butter until crumbly.
- Add yeast mixture, egg, and mashed bananas. Mix until combined and knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
- Beat together filling ingredients until smooth.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread filling, and add sliced bananas. Roll tightly.
- Cut into 12 pieces and place in a greased baking dish. Cover and let rise for 20 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F for 28-33 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare icing ingredients until creamy and smooth.
- Drizzle icing over warm rolls after cooling for 5 minutes.
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