If you love the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon rolls paired with the rich, moist flavor of banana bread, then you are in for a treat! The Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a delicious mashup that brings the best of both worlds together. Soft, fluffy rolls filled with a cinnamon-sugar-banana center and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime you need a little sweet pick-me-up. They’re irresistibly tender with just the right hint of banana and spice that will have you reaching for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, but each plays a vital role. From the warmth of cinnamon to the creaminess of the frosting, every component adds layers of texture and flavor that make this recipe truly special.
- 1 cup lukewarm milk: Essential for activating the yeast and creating a tender dough.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides richness in the dough and filling for moistness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the flavors.
- 4 ½ – 5 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the dough, making the rolls soft but sturdy.
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast: Gives the dough its rise and fluffy texture.
- 1½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana): Infuses the dough with natural banana flavor and moisture.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for filling): Creates a luscious layer between the dough and cinnamon sugar.
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds deep sweetness and helps caramelize the filling.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Brings the warm, spicy note signature to cinnamon rolls.
- 2 large bananas (thinly sliced): Fresh slices that add texture and extra banana goodness in every bite.
- ¼ cup heavy cream (for topping): Keeps the rolls moist and tender during baking.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (for frosting): The star ingredient in the rich, tangy frosting.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frosting): Adds smoothness and balance to the frosting.
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a sweet aromatic flavor that complements the cream cheese.
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk to a lukewarm temperature—this is key to waking up the yeast without killing it. Stir in the melted butter and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it proof for about 5 minutes until it bubbles and foams, showing the yeast is active. This step ensures your dough will rise beautifully and have that light, airy texture we all crave in cinnamon rolls.
Step 2: Knead and Rise the Dough
Next, gradually mix in the flour and salt into the milk mixture. The dough may be a little sticky at first, but keep kneading by hand or with a mixer until it’s smooth and elastic. Incorporate the mashed banana now for that subtle fruity sweetness and moist crumb texture in your rolls. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about one hour, or until doubled in size. This slow rise develops flavor and makes the rolls wonderfully fluffy.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling and Roll the Dough
While the dough is rising, mix together the filling ingredients: softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Once your dough has puffed up, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across the dough’s surface, then layer the thin banana slices on top. This combination of sweet, spicy filling with fresh banana slices is what makes this recipe absolutely unforgettable!
Step 4: Shape and Slice Your Rolls
Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to the other into a tight log. Use a sharp knife or floss to slice the roll into 12 even pieces. Arrange them spaced slightly apart on a greased baking sheet or pan. This careful shaping step guarantees that each cinnamon roll will bake evenly and look beautifully spiraled with layers of banana and cinnamon sugar.
Step 5: Bake with a Touch of Cream for Softness
Before popping the rolls into the oven, gently pour the heavy cream over them. This small trick locks in moisture, helping keep the rolls tender and luxurious as they bake. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 35 minutes until golden brown and irresistible. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make it impossible to wait for them to cool.
Step 6: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting and Serve
While the rolls cool slightly, mix together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to create a velvety frosting. Spread this luscious topping over the warm rolls so it melts into every nook and cranny, making each bite decadently creamy and sweet. Now, get ready to indulge in the best combination of banana bread flavors with cinnamon rolls!
How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm and flavor, you can sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting, adding a delightful crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey also complements the rolls beautifully. Fresh banana slices or a few edible flowers can elevate the presentation for special occasions.
Side Dishes
These rolls pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or a citrus salad that cuts through their sweetness. A hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a cold glass of milk complements the soft, sweet rolls perfectly, making it an inviting breakfast or brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these banana bread cinnamon rolls in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight from the oven for a cozy, homey feel. Alternatively, plate individual rolls on pretty dessert plates with a garnish of mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream to impress your guests. Wrapping leftovers individually in parchment paper makes for adorable grab-and-go treats too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The cream cheese frosting may soften slightly but will still taste amazing. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is best.
Freezing
You can freeze the cinnamon rolls either before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving to maintain that freshly baked texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a low-temperature oven (300°F) for 10-15 minutes. This brings back their softness and makes the cream cheese frosting wonderfully melty again, just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use ripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ripe bananas are actually perfect because they are sweeter and softer, which enhances the flavor and texture of your banana bread cinnamon rolls.
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
You can substitute instant yeast with active dry yeast, but you’ll need to proof it in warm water first and possibly adjust the rising times slightly for the dough to develop properly.
Can I make these rolls dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the butter, milk, and cream with non-dairy alternatives like coconut oil, almond or oat milk, and dairy-free cream to make a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
How do I prevent the rolls from drying out?
Using the heavy cream before baking and storing leftovers in airtight containers helps keep the rolls moist and tender. Reheating with a bit of moisture can also revive any drier rolls.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling?
Definitely! Adding chopped nuts gives a nice crunch, and chocolate chips add fun bursts of sweetness. Just sprinkle them over the cinnamon sugar before adding the banana slices when assembling.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a homemade treat that combines the best of banana bread and cinnamon rolls, the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe will not disappoint. The balance of soft, fragrant dough, sweet cinnamon filling, fresh bananas, and creamy frosting makes these rolls utterly unforgettable. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and discover not only a new favorite bake but a cozy comfort food classic for your kitchen. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the soft, comforting texture of classic cinnamon rolls with the rich flavor of banana bread. Filled with a cinnamon-sugar and banana mixture, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they make an indulgent breakfast or dessert treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup lukewarm milk
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 ½ – 5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
Filling
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 large bananas, thinly sliced
Topping
- ¼ cup heavy cream, warmed
Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Proof the yeast mixture: Warm the milk slightly and mix it with melted butter and granulated sugar in a bowl. Add the instant yeast and allow it to proof for 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Prepare the dough: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the yeast mixture, incorporating them while kneading until you achieve a smooth dough. Stir in the mashed banana for flavor. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour until it has doubled in size.
- Make the filling and prepare the rolls: Combine the filling ingredients by mixing the softened butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface, spread the filling evenly over it, and then layer the thinly sliced bananas on top.
- Form the rolls: Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it into 12 equal pieces. Place each piece cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased to prevent sticking.
- Add topping and bake: Pour the warmed heavy cream evenly over the rolls, which helps keep them moist during baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 35 minutes, or until the rolls turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Prepare frosting and serve: While the rolls cool slightly, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and spreadable. Frost the warm rolls generously before serving for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- Ensure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Kneading the dough until smooth helps develop gluten for better texture.
- Bananas should be ripe for optimal sweetness and flavor.
- Applying warmed heavy cream before baking adds moisture and richness.
- The rolls are best served warm but can be reheated gently if needed.
- You can substitute cream cheese frosting with a simple glaze if preferred.
