A Breakfast Mashup Dream
Introduction
Experience the cozy warmth of banana bread wrapped into pillowy cinnamon rolls. This creative twist combines ripe bananas with classic cinnamon roll dough for a breakfast treat that’s perfectly indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses up ripe bananas
- Make-ahead friendly
- Freezes beautifully
- Unique breakfast option
- Great for brunch
- Customizable toppings
- Perfect for sharing
- Heavenly aroma
Ingredients
The Dough:
- 3½ cups bread flour
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- ¼ cup warm milk
- 2¼ teaspoons active yeast
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Pinch of salt
Banana Filling:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup softened butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
1. Dough Creation:
- Mix yeast with warm milk
- Combine wet ingredients
- Add flour gradually
- Knead until smooth
- Rise 1 hour
2. Assembly Magic:
- Roll dough rectangle
- Spread filling mix
- Roll tight cylinder
- Cut 12 equal rolls
- Rise 30 minutes
3. Baking Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
- Cool slightly
- Add glaze while warm
Storage Tips
Keep Fresh:
- Room temp: 2 days
- Refrigerate: 5 days
- Freeze unfrosted
- Reheat individual rolls
- Store airtight
Pro Tips
- Use overripe bananas
- Room temp ingredients
- Don’t overmix dough
- Let rise in a warm spot
- Cut with dental floss
- Check early when baking
FAQs
Q: No bread flour?
A: All-purpose works.
Q: Can I make ahead?
A: Refrigerate after first rise.
Q: Too sweet?
A: Reduce sugar in glaze.
Q: Nuts optional?
A: Skip or swap pecans.
Q: Can I freeze baked rolls?
A: Yes, without frosting.
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls bring together the best of both breakfast favorites. The banana-enriched dough stays tender while baking, and the filling creates perfect swirls of cinnamon-banana goodness. Whether served at brunch or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, these rolls offer a unique twist on two classic recipes. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, waiting for these rolls to emerge from the oven.