Imagine the cozy, comforting aroma of banana bread blending with the sweet, spiced delight of cinnamon rolls, all crowned with a velvety, tangy cream cheese frosting. These Divine Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are a breakfast revelation, perfect for a special weekend brunch or a delightful sweet treat any time you crave something truly extraordinary.
This recipe takes the best elements of two beloved baked goods and combines them into one utterly irresistible creation. The rolls are wonderfully soft and infused with ripe banana flavor and warm cinnamon, creating a harmonious taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. And that frosting? It’s the perfect creamy finish, balancing the sweetness with a touch of classic cream cheese tang.
Why You'll Adore These Rolls
These banana bread cinnamon rolls aren't just delicious; they're an experience. Here’s why they’re destined to become a new favorite:
- Fusion of Favorites: It's the ultimate mashup! Enjoy the beloved flavors of banana bread and classic cinnamon rolls in one delectable bite.
- Moist & Fluffy Texture: The banana in the dough ensures these rolls are incredibly tender and moist, far from dry.
- Easy to Follow: Despite their impressive appearance, these rolls are straightforward to make, suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a holiday breakfast, a gathering with friends, or simply a family treat, these rolls are always a hit.
- Irresistible Frosting: The homemade cream cheese frosting is rich, smooth, and elevates the entire experience.
Ingredients for Your Baking Adventure
Gather these simple ingredients to create your batch of heaven:
For the Rolls:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 1 large banana)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
Refer to the full recipe card for precise measurements and detailed instructions.
Crafting Your Cinnamon Roll Masterpiece: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base
Begin by combining the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and ground cinnamon until they are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, mash your ripe bananas, then add the milk, melted unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and smooth.
Step 3: Bring the Dough Together
Pour the wet banana mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir gently using a spoon or spatula until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine and will result in a more tender roll.
Step 4: Prepare Your Work Surface
Lightly flour a clean work surface, such as a countertop or large cutting board. Turn the prepared dough out onto this floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times, just enough until it forms a cohesive ball.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Using a rolling pin, carefully roll the dough into a rectangular shape. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. This uniform thickness ensures even baking.
Step 6: Create the Irresistible Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth, spreadable paste.
Step 7: Spread the Filling and Add Optional Nuts
Generously spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the entire surface of your rolled-out dough rectangle. If you're opting for extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle your chopped nuts evenly over the filling at this stage. You can also explore other flavorful additions like those in these Irresistible Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Step 8: Roll and Seal the Dough
Starting from one of the long sides of your dough rectangle, carefully and tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Once rolled, pinch the seam along the edge to ensure it's well-sealed, preventing the filling from escaping during baking.
Step 9: Slice the Rolls
Using a very sharp knife, or for cleaner cuts, a piece of unflavored dental floss, slice the dough log into 12 equal pieces. This creates your individual cinnamon rolls.
Step 10: Prepare for Baking and Proof
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the sliced rolls in the prepared dish, leaving a small space between each one to allow for expansion. Cover the dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes. This second rise will make them extra fluffy.
Step 11: Preheat Your Oven
While the rolls are proofing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 12: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through in the center.
Step 13: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it's fully incorporated, then stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time, mixing until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 14: Frost and Serve with Joy
Once the baked rolls are out of the oven and have cooled slightly (they don't need to be completely cold), spread a generous amount of your luscious cream cheese frosting over the top. Serve your Divine Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting warm and bask in the deliciousness! For another banana bread delight, try our Moist Banana Bread: The Best Easy Recipe.
Tips for Success & Delightful Variations
- Ripe Bananas are Key: The riper your bananas (with plenty of brown spots), the sweeter and more flavorful your rolls will be.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough rolls. Stir just until combined.
- Temperature Matters for Frosting: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are truly softened for a smooth, lump-free frosting. Learn more about the properties of cream cheese on Wikipedia.
Variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra texture.
- Chocolatey Twist: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough or sprinkle them over the filling.
- Spiced Up: A pinch of nutmeg or allspice in the dough can deepen the flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating Notes
- Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing Instructions: You can freeze unbaked rolls! Place them in your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then let them rise and bake as directed.
- Reheating: Warm individual rolls in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or heat several in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
A Sweet Conclusion
These Divine Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a recipe; they're an invitation to create warmth and joy in your kitchen. The blend of classic flavors with that irresistible frosting makes them a memorable treat that you'll want to bake again and again.
We hope you love these as much as we do! Share your baking triumphs and tag us in your beautiful creations. Happy baking!
FAQs
Can I prepare the banana bread cinnamon roll dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to one day ahead. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Before rolling out, allow the dough to come to room temperature for easier handling.
What's the best way to store leftover banana bread cinnamon rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week. They can be gently reheated in the microwave or oven.
Can I add other ingredients to the cinnamon roll filling?
Yes, feel free to customize! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips, make fantastic additions to the cinnamon filling for extra texture and flavor.
How do I achieve perfect cream cheese frosting consistency?
Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free frosting. Add milk one tablespoon at a time and mix until you reach your desired spreadable consistency.
Divine Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Fluffy, tender cinnamon rolls infused with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas, topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for rolls)
1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 1 large banana)
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for rolls)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for rolls)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (for filling)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for filling)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
4 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
1-2 tablespoons milk (for frosting, to adjust consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the mashed bananas, milk, melted butter, egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay.
Step 4: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Gently knead the dough a few times until it comes together.
Step 5: Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
Step 6: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon until smooth.
Step 7: Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough. If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts over the filling.
Step 8: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal.
Step 9: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
Step 10: Place the rolls in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spacing them slightly apart. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
Step 11: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 12: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 13: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Add 1-2 tablespoons milk as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency.
Step 14: Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for the best results, especially for the frosting.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast & Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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