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

Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt. Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients.
Add the egg, melted butter, mashed banana, and the yeast mixture into the well. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:

While the dough is rising, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out onto a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the butter. Arrange the thin banana slices evenly across the dough.
Roll and Cut:

Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from one of the long edges. Pinch the seam to seal the roll.
Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the roll into 12 equal pieces.
Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, cover with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Bake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If the tops brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.
Prepare the Icing:

While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by beating together the cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until the icing is smooth and thick, yet pourable.
Serve:

Once the rolls are out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before drizzling the cream cheese icing generously over the top.
Serve warm, and enjoy the blend of banana bread and cinnamon roll flavors in each bite.

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.