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Imagine the comforting aroma of banana bread blending perfectly with the sweet, spicy scent of cinnamon rolls. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fusion of two beloved treats. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, each roll is topped with a luscious cream cheese icing that melts into every swirl. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and yields mouthwatering results. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed to about 110°F
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and a pinch of the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
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2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, remaining granulated sugar, melted butter, and eggs until well combined. Add the activated yeast mixture to the banana mixture and stir to combine. Gradually add the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
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3. First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
5. Roll Out the Dough
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. Fill and Roll
Spread the prepared filling evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log.
7. Slice and Arrange
Using a sharp knife or a piece of dental floss, slice the rolled dough into 12 equal-sized pieces. Place the cinnamon rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
8. Second Rise
Cover the baking dish with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the cinnamon rolls rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffed and nearly doubled in size.
9. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Make the Cream Cheese Icing
While the cinnamon rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese icing. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
11. Ice and Serve
Once the cinnamon rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Spread the cream cheese icing over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve them warm and enjoy the irresistible combination of banana, cinnamon, and cream cheese icing!
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on a classic. With their rich banana flavor, cinnamon-sugar swirl, and creamy icing, they’re perfect for any occasion. Make them for a special breakfast or share them with friends and family—everyone will be asking for the recipe!