Description

Imagine the cozy, familiar aroma of banana bread wafting through your kitchen, blended seamlessly with the irresistible scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. This recipe for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combines the best of both worlds, offering a unique twist on two beloved classics. Whether you're a fan of moist, flavorful banana bread or soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, this recipe brings them together in a way that will have you coming back for more. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 egg, room temperature
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• For the Filling:
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ripe banana, thinly sliced
• For the Icing:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk

Preparation Method

1. Combine warm milk and yeast in a small bowl and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, whisk sugar, flour, and salt, then create a well in the center.
3. Add egg, melted butter, mashed banana, and yeast mixture to the well and stir until a soft dough forms.
4. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
6. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.
7. Roll out the risen dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
8. Spread softened butter over the dough, leaving a border, then sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture and arrange banana slices.
9. Roll the dough into a tight log and pinch the seam to seal.
10. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a knife or dental floss.
11. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover with a towel, and let rise for 30 minutes.
12. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
13. Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown, covering with foil if browning too quickly.
14. While baking, prepare icing by beating cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.
15. Allow rolls to cool slightly after baking, then drizzle with cream cheese icing.
16. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip: Add a Nutty Twist
To add an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans over the cinnamon-sugar filling before rolling up the dough. The nuts will toast slightly as the rolls bake, adding a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft, sweet rolls.

Conclusion: A New Favorite for Your Recipe Collection
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they're a celebration of comfort food at its finest. The fusion of banana bread's moist texture and the classic sweetness of cinnamon rolls creates a dish that is both nostalgic and innovative. Whether you’re serving them at a family brunch or enjoying them as a mid-week indulgence, these rolls are guaranteed to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Plus, with the added option of nuts, you can customize them to suit your taste perfectly. So why not give this recipe a try? Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you.