These moist banana bread cinnamon rolls are a cozy treat! With soft dough swirling around sweet banana and cinnamon, they’re perfect for breakfast or a snack.
The cream cheese frosting is the cherry on top, adding a rich and creamy touch that will have you saying, “Just one more, please!” 😋 I love having these warm and fresh out of the oven—they’re simply irresistible!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture. If you don’t have ripe bananas, you could microwave slightly green ones for about 30 seconds, just until they’re softening. It’s a handy trick to save time!
Yeast: Active dry yeast is great for this recipe, but if you have instant yeast, you can use the same amount without proofing it in the warm milk. Just mix it directly into the dry ingredients!
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the dough while brown sugar in the filling gives a nice caramel flavor. Feel free to use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you prefer low-calorie options.
Cream Cheese: If you want a lighter frosting, consider Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. They won’t have the exact same flavor but will still be creamy with fewer calories!
What’s the Best Way to Knead the Dough?
Kneading is key to developing gluten, making your rolls fluffy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lightly flour your surface and turn out the dough. Using your hands, press the dough, then fold it over onto itself.
- Turn it 90 degrees and repeat the process, giving it a good push and fold for 6-8 minutes.
- You’ll know you’ve kneaded enough when the dough is smooth and elastic— try the “windowpane test”: stretch a small piece; it should thin out without tearing.
Don’t rush this step, as good kneading gives you that perfect pillowy texture!
How Do I Roll and Cut the Dough Properly?
Getting a nice roll and cut can be tricky, so here’s a little guide:
- Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough evenly into a rectangle. Make sure your surface and rolling pin are lightly floured to prevent sticking.
- When spreading the filling, ensure it’s even from edge to edge for balanced flavor in each roll. Use a spatula for better coverage!
- When rolling, start from one long side, keeping it tight but not ripping the dough. A sharp knife or dental floss works wonders for cutting the rolls without squishing them.
With these tips, your banana bread cinnamon rolls will be a hit!
Moist Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for desired consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 2 to 2.5 hours total, including rising and baking time. You’ll get to enjoy the amazing aroma of fresh banana cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen while they bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warmed milk. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This helps activate the yeast, which is essential for making your dough rise!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, melted butter, and egg. Mix well, then add the foamy yeast mixture. Stir everything together until combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
4. Knead the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This develops the gluten, giving your rolls their fluffy texture. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
5. Prepare the Filling:
While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, packed brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined. This mixture will create a delicious sweet filling for your rolls!
6. Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangular shape, approximately 16 inches long by 12 inches wide.
7. Spread the Filling:
Evenly spread the cinnamon-banana filling over the surface of the rectangle, leaving about a 1/2 inch border along one long edge. This will help seal the roll when you’re done!
8. Roll the Dough:
Starting with the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Be gentle but firm to keep the filling inside!
9. Cut the Rolls:
Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces. Place each roll cut-side-up into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
10. Second Rise:
Cover the pan loosely and let the rolls rise again for another 30-45 minutes, until they become puffy and filling the pan nicely.
11. Preheat Your Oven:
While the rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures they bake evenly and turn out perfect!
12. Bake the Rolls:
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and fully cooked through. They should smell heavenly!
13. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well incorporated. If it’s too thick, add a little milk until you reach your desired spreading consistency.
14. Frost the Rolls:
Once the rolls are baked and golden, allow them to cool for a few minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting on top. Serve warm and enjoy your moist banana bread cinnamon rolls with creamy frosting!
Enjoy the delightful combination of banana bread flavor with the comforting taste of cinnamon rolls. These treats are sure to be a hit with family and friends!
FAQ for Moist Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I Use Overripe Bananas in This Recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, overripe bananas make the best option for this recipe. They’re sweeter and more flavorful, which will enhance the overall taste of your cinnamon rolls. Just make sure they’re well mashed with no large chunks.
How Do I Store Leftover Cinnamon Rolls?
To keep your leftover cinnamon rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a warm treat!
Can I Make These Cinnamon Rolls Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives. The rolls will still be delicious and fluffy!
How Can I Make the Frosting Less Sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet cream cheese frosting, start with less powdered sugar and gradually add more to taste. You can also add a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness!
