Who doesn’t love a warm, gooey cinnamon roll fresh out of the oven? Now imagine that with the natural sweetness of bananas infused into the dough and filling. Banana cinnamon rolls are the ultimate comfort food—a delightful twist on a classic that’s bound to bring smiles to anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is your golden ticket to creating a treat that’s as unique as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love Banana Cinnamon Rolls

These banana cinnamon rolls are a combination of soft, pillowy dough, a sweet and spiced cinnamon filling, and a luscious cream cheese icing. The addition of bananas gives the rolls an extra layer of moistness and flavor, making them an irresistible choice for brunch, dessert, or even a decadent breakfast.

Ingredients for Banana Cinnamon Rolls

Banana Dough

• ¾ cup milk warmed to 110°F
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 large egg room temperature, lightly beaten
• ⅔ cup mashed bananas (about 2 medium bananas, mashed and measured)
• 5 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature, cubed

Cinnamon Banana Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter room temperature
• ¾ cup brown sugar packed (light or dark)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 bananas thinly sliced

Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
• 1 cup powdered sugar sifted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Banana Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   Heat the milk to 110°F and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed butter and knead with your hands or a pastry cutter until the butter pieces are about the size of peas.
3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
   Add the yeast mixture, beaten egg, and mashed bananas to the dry ingredients. Using a mixer with a dough hook, mix on low speed until the dough starts to form. Then, increase to medium speed and knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
   Preheat your oven to 200°F, then turn it off and crack the door open. Spray a large bowl with nonstick spray and place the dough inside, covering it with a towel. Let it rise in the oven for about 1 hour.

2. Make the Cinnamon Banana Filling

1. Mix the Filling:
   Beat the softened butter on high speed using a hand mixer until creamy. Add the brown sugar and cinnamon, and mix on medium speed until well combined.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   Roll the risen dough out on a lightly floured surface to form a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over the dough using an offset spatula. Arrange the thinly sliced bananas evenly on top of the filling.
3. Roll and Cut:
   Starting from the shorter side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a serrated knife to cut off uneven ends, then slice the log into 12 equal rolls.

3. Bake the Rolls

1. Second Rise:
   Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and place the rolls inside, leaving a little space between each. Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
2. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 28–33 minutes until the tops are golden brown.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Icing

1. Mix the Icing:
   Beat the cream cheese and butter on high speed until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix on low speed until combined. Increase to high speed and beat until fluffy.
2. Spread on Rolls:
   Dollop the icing onto each roll and spread it evenly using a spoon or spatula.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Don’t Overheat the Milk: Milk that’s too hot can kill the yeast. Aim for 110°F, which feels warm but not hot to the touch.
• Slice the Rolls Cleanly: Use a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion to prevent squishing the dough.

FAQs About Banana Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I prepare these rolls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise and refrigerate them overnight. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

2. Can I freeze banana cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked and unfrosted rolls. Reheat in the oven at 350°F, then add the icing before serving.

3. What if I don’t have a mixer?
You can knead the dough by hand. It will take about 10–12 minutes to achieve the right texture.

4. Can I use a different fruit?
Certainly! Swap bananas for thinly sliced apples, pears, or even berries for a twist on the classic.

5. How long do they stay fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

6. Can I use a different frosting?
Yes, cream cheese frosting is traditional, but a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla works too.

Why These Rolls Are a Must-Try

Banana cinnamon rolls take the comfort food game to the next level. The combination of banana dough, rich cinnamon filling, and tangy cream cheese icing is truly a masterpiece. Every bite is soft, sweet, and utterly satisfying—a treat you’ll want to bake again and again.

Take Action Now: Gather your ingredients and try this banana cinnamon roll recipe today. Trust me, you’ll fall in love with every warm, gooey bite!

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