Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Banana bread cinnamon rolls bring together the best of two classics the sweetness of ripe banana in rich, pillowy dough spiraled with brown sugar and cinnamon. I love how the swirl of fresh bananas in every bite reminds me of cozy mornings and special brunches at home. These rolls can be started a day ahead making them perfect for fuss free entertaining or a lazy weekend treat.

I first made these when we had overripe bananas I did not want going to waste. The smell during baking is absolutely irresistible and my family now requests them at every holiday gathering.

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: gives the rolls their soft tender structure use fresh high quality flour for best texture
• Instant yeast: ensures a reliable rise go for a well known brand for consistent results
• Whole milk: brings richness and moisture helping the dough stay supple avoid low fat if possible
• Unsalted butter: adds flavor and flakiness always use unsalted for fresher taste and better control over seasoning
• Granulated sugar: sweetens and helps activate the yeast choose fine pure cane sugar
• Ripe bananas: mashed and sliced add both flavor and natural moistness use spotty overripe bananas for better sweetness
• Light brown sugar: melts into a caramel like filling pick one that is soft and aromatic
• Ground cinnamon: infuses warmth and depth choose fresh fragrant cinnamon for a punchy swirl
• Heavy cream: gets poured over before baking making the rolls extra gooey look for high fat quality cream
• Cream cheese: gives the frosting tanginess opt for block full fat cream cheese for best texture
• Powdered sugar: makes the frosting silky always sift to avoid lumps
• Vanilla extract: rounds out flavors choose real vanilla for maximum aroma
• Salt: sharpens and balances all the sweet notes fine sea salt is best

Step by Step Instructions

Warm the Milk and Butter:

Heat the milk and butter together in a saucepan until the butter melts and the mixture is lukewarm to the touch between 120 and 130 degrees this gentle warmth speeds up the yeast action without killing it

Make the Dough:

Combine the all purpose flour with yeast and salt in a mixer bowl then pour in the warmed milk mixture and add the mashed banana stir until a shaggy dough begins to form

Knead the Dough:

Knead with a dough hook on medium speed for 6 to 8 minutes or by hand on a floured counter for 8 to 10 minutes adding more flour if needed the dough should be soft elastic and only lightly sticky

First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl cover and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size this can take 1 to 1 and a half hours for instant yeast or longer for active dry

Roll Out the Dough:

On a floured surface roll the dough into a large rectangle about 18 by 12 inches aim for an even thickness so all the rolls bake evenly

Add the Filling:

Spread softened butter over the dough leaving a small border then mix brown sugar and cinnamon together and scatter it evenly press it lightly into the butter and add thin banana slices in a single layer

Shape and Cut the Rolls:

Tightly roll up the dough from the long edge to form a log then cut into 12 rolls using a serrated knife or dental floss for neat spirals

Second Rise:

Arrange the rolls in a buttered baking dish cover and let them rise again until puffy and almost doubled this is key for a fluffy crumb

Bake with Cream:

Pour slightly warmed heavy cream over the rolls right before popping them into a hot oven at 350 degrees this step creates a moist rich texture

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla beating until light and fluffy

Frost the Rolls:

Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the rolls while they are still warm so it melts a little and soaks into every crevice

Save

My favorite part is the hidden slices of banana rolled up inside you get little bursts of fruit in every spiral and it always reminds me of baking with my grandmother who loved adding something special to classic recipes

Storage Tips

Store frosted rolls in the fridge for up to five days in an airtight container They reheat beautifully in the microwave or can be warmed gently in the oven The rolls can also be frozen baked or unbaked for up to three months If frozen before baking allow to thaw and complete the final proof before popping into the oven

Ingredient Substitutions

For the milk you can use a plant based alternative but results may be less rich Bread flour can substitute the all purpose for chewier rolls Swap the cream cheese for a tangy Greek yogurt in the frosting for a lighter touch If you are out of brown sugar mix white sugar with a little molasses as a quick fix

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon rolls are perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea Serve at brunch with fresh fruit or alongside eggs and bacon Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra decadent finish

Cultural Inspiration

Cinnamon rolls have roots in Swedish baking where spiced sweet rolls are a classic treat The banana bread twist brings a touch of American comfort baking to the table making this dish a blend of cozy traditions

Recipe Questions

→ Can these be prepared the night before?

Yes, assemble the rolls and let them rise in the refrigerator overnight. The next morning, bring to room temperature and bake as directed.

→ How ripe should the bananas be?

Use fully ripe bananas with brown spots for the dough and the sliced filling. They provide the best sweetness and moisture.

→ Is it possible to freeze the rolls?

Freeze before or after baking for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.

→ What kind of yeast works best?

Instant yeast is convenient, but active dry yeast is also suitable. Be sure to adjust rise times if you use active dry yeast.

→ Can low-fat milk or cream cheese be used?

Low-fat milk or cream cheese can be used, but whole milk and full-fat cream cheese offer the richest texture and flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep rolls in the refrigerator due to the frosting. Rewarm before serving to refresh their texture.