Introduction
Enjoy the perfect blend of banana bread and cinnamon rolls with these delightful treats, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
– 240 ml mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)
– 120 ml warm milk (110°F)
– 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
– 50 g granulated sugar
– 60 g melted butter
– 1 egg
– 450–520 g all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional for extra warmth)
For the Filling:
– 100 g brown sugar, packed
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 60 g softened butter
– Optional: chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 115 g cream cheese, softened
– 30 g butter, softened
– 120 g powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 15–30 ml milk (to thin, if needed)
Prep Time
25 mins
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25–30 mins
Total Time: 1 hour 55 mins–2 hours
Yield: 12 large rolls
Directions
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and the yeast. Let sit for 5–10 mins until foamy.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add the sugar, melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
Mix in salt and 450 g flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
Knead for 5–7 minutes by hand or with a dough hook, adding more flour if needed, until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
4. Roll and Fill:
Roll dough into a 30×46 cm rectangle on a floured surface.
Spread softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mix.
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips if using.
Roll tightly from the long edge and cut into 12 rolls.
5. Second Rise & Bake:
Place rolls in a greased 23×33 cm baking dish. Cover and let rise for 20–30 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
6. Make the Frosting:
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until fluffy.
Thin with milk if needed for a spreadable consistency.
7. Frost & Serve:
Spread frosting on warm rolls so it melts into all the swirls.
Serve fresh and warm!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk (110°F), a pinch of sugar, and the packet of active dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until it becomes foamy, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to use.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. To the mashed bananas, add the granulated sugar, melted butter, the egg, and the yeast mixture you prepared earlier. Stir these ingredients together until fully combined. Gradually incorporate the salt and 450 grams of all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Begin kneading the dough, either by hand or using a dough hook, for 5 to 7 minutes, adding more flour as needed until the dough is smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, cover the bowl with a clean dish towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the packed brown sugar with ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside to use later.
4. Roll and Fill
On a floured surface, roll the risen dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 30 by 46 centimeters. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Next, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter layer. If you wish, add in chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips for an extra texture and flavor boost. Roll the dough tightly starting from one long edge, and then use a sharp knife to cut the log into 12 equal rolls.
5. Second Rise & Bake
Place the rolls in a greased 23 by 33 centimeter baking dish. Cover them with a towel and allow them to rise for an additional 20 to 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes, until they are golden brown on top and cooked all the way through.
6. Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, stir in milk a little at a time until you achieve your desired spreadable consistency.
7. Frost & Serve
Once the rolls are warm from the oven, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top, allowing it to melt into the beautiful swirls of the rolls. Serve these delightful treats warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Banana Texture
Make sure the bananas are very ripe to ensure optimal flavor and sweetness, as this will enhance the taste of your rolls.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days.
Freezing Tips
These rolls freeze beautifully! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Frosting Variations
Try adding a hint of lemon or orange zest to the cream cheese frosting for a citrus twist, or include nuts for added texture.
Cook Techniques
Activating Yeast
To ensure proper rising of your dough, it is crucial to activate the yeast. Combine warm milk with a pinch of sugar and the yeast, allowing it to sit until foamy, which indicates that the yeast is active.
Mashing Bananas
For the best banana flavor and texture, mash the ripe bananas until smooth, ensuring there are minimal lumps. This will help incorporate them evenly throughout the dough.
Kneading Dough
Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes to develop gluten, which gives the rolls structure. Use a dough hook or your hands, adding flour as needed to achieve a smooth and elastic dough.
Rolling the Dough
When rolling the dough, aim for a rectangle of approximately 30×46 cm. This uniformity helps achieve equal-sized rolls for even baking.
Creating the Filling
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors. Spread softened butter over the rolled dough before sprinkling the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring it sticks well.
Properly Cutting Rolls
Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces. This method helps maintain the shape of the rolls and prevents squishing.
Second Rise
Allow the cut rolls to rise again in a warm area before baking. This additional rise helps achieve a light and fluffy texture.
Baking Temperature
Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they turn golden brown without overbaking.
Making Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Adjust consistency with milk for a spreadable texture.
Frosting Technique
Spread the frosting on warm rolls to allow it to melt and seep into the swirls for maximum flavor.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may affect the texture and rise. Consider using a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for the best results.
How do I store leftover rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked rolls before the second rise. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer. When ready to bake, let them rise fully before baking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
A good substitute for cream cheese is mascarpone cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative, depending on your dietary preference.
Can I add different fillings to the rolls?
Yes, you can customize the filling with various ingredients, such as nuts, chocolate chips, or even fruits like raisins or dried cranberries for added flavor.
Conclusion
Enjoy these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting as a delightful combination of flavors that will satisfy your sweet cravings. The soft, pillowy rolls paired with the creamy frosting make for a perfect treat, whether enjoyed at breakfast or as a dessert. These rolls are sure to impress your family and friends, offering a unique twist to traditional cinnamon rolls.
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Try banana nut muffins for a quick and easy breakfast option. Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch.
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For a fun breakfast twist, make cinnamon roll pancakes. Swirl a cinnamon-sugar mixture into your pancake batter and top with cream cheese frosting.
Banana Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast
Create stuffed French toast using banana slices and cream cheese filling for a rich and satisfying brunch option.
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Add mini chocolate chips to your classic banana bread recipe for an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence.
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Transform the rolls into a cinnamon roll cake, layering batter and cinnamon filling in a cake pan, topped with cream cheese frosting.
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Bake banana oatmeal cookies using mashed bananas and oats. For added flavor, mix in chocolate chips or dried fruits.
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Layer banana pudding, vanilla wafers, and whipped cream for a delicious dessert that features the classic flavor of bananas.
Churro Banana Bites
Create churro banana bites by frying banana slices in churro dough and rolling them in cinnamon sugar for a sweet snack.
