Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on two beloved treats. Imagine the warmth of fresh banana bread combined with the sweet, pillowy goodness of cinnamon rolls. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, creating a mouthwatering dessert or breakfast option that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it utilizes ripe bananas, which means you can avoid food waste and make something delicious. Second, these rolls are soft, sweet, and fragrant with cinnamon, making them a special treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a dessert for guests, Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls will impress everyone with their unique flavor and fluffy texture.
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mashed banana (about 2-3 medium bananas)
Directions:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast; let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and mix well.
- Gradually add in the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Incorporate the mashed bananas and knead the dough until smooth.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread a layer of melted butter on top, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar if desired, then roll it up tightly.
- Cut into slices and place them on a baking tray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls are best served warm, straight from the oven. You can enjoy them plain or drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk on top. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast or snack.
How to Store Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
To store leftover rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven.
Tips to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Ensure your milk is warm but not hot when combining it with the yeast. It should feel like warm bathwater.
- For a sweeter filling, you can add some brown sugar and cinnamon to the melted butter before spreading it on the dough.
- Make sure to knead the dough well to achieve that soft and fluffy texture.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips or nuts to the filling for an extra twist. Alternatively, you can make a cream cheese frosting to drizzle over the top for added sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
What can I use if I don’t have ripe bananas?
If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can microwave bananas in 30-second intervals until soft, then mash them.
How can I tell when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown on top, and you can also tap the bottom of one: it should sound hollow if it’s fully cooked.