Why Make This Recipe

Banana bread cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting are an incredible treat that combines the best flavors of two beloved classics: banana bread and cinnamon rolls. If you love the warm, comforting taste of banana bread but crave the soft, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls, this recipe is perfect for you. The rolls are fluffy and packed with the sweet flavor of bananas, while the cream cheese frosting adds just the right amount of tangy richness. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress.

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Making banana bread cinnamon rolls is a straightforward process, and with a little bit of patience, you can create a batch that looks like it’s from a bakery. Below, you’ll find detailed steps and tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly.

Ingredients:

2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon (for filling)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened (for frosting)
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the rolls bake evenly.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, and softened butter. Use a fork or a whisk to mix them together until the mixture is smooth.
Add milk and egg: Next, pour in the milk and crack the egg into the mixture. Stir well until everything is combined.
Prepare the dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This step helps to distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the flour.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the rolls tough.
Roll out the dough: Dust a clean surface with flour. Turn the dough out onto this surface and gently roll it into a rectangle. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Spread the filling: Take the softened butter and spread it evenly over the rolled-out dough. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the buttered surface, making sure to cover it well.
Roll it up: Starting at one end of the rectangle, roll the dough tightly into a log. Be sure to roll it evenly for the best shape and size of the rolls.
Cut the rolls: Once you have your log, use a sharp knife or a piece of dental floss to cut it into equal pieces. Aim for about 1 to 2 inches thick for each roll.
Place in a baking dish: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, ensuring they have some space to rise and expand during baking.
Bake the rolls: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for a golden brown top.
Make the frosting: While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Frost the rolls: Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly, about 5-10 minutes. After they cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the rolls.
Serve warm: Enjoy your homemade banana bread cinnamon rolls while they are still warm for the best taste!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Serving banana bread cinnamon rolls is simple. Place them on a large plate or a cake stand to showcase their delightful appearance. You can serve them as they are, or add a dollop of extra cream cheese frosting on top for an indulgent touch. If you are feeling fancy, consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect option for a cozy brunch or snack.

How to Store Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

To store banana bread cinnamon rolls, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days but will stay fresh longer if refrigerated. If you wish to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To freeze, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven or microwave briefly before serving.

Tips to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your rolls will be. Make sure they have brown spots for maximum flavor.
Don’t skip the frosting: The cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch. It adds creaminess and sweetness that complements the rolls beautifully.
Control the thickness: Make sure to roll the dough out to an even thickness. This ensures that your rolls bake evenly, resulting in consistent texture throughout.
Let them rise: After cutting the rolls, let them rest for a few minutes before baking. This helps them become fluffier as they rise slightly due to the baking powder.
Experiment with flavors: You can switch up the spices by adding nutmeg or using flavored extracts in the frosting, such as almond extract for a twist.

Variation

If you want to change things up, try adding different fillings to the cinnamon rolls. You could include chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or pecans for added texture. You can also swap the cream cheese frosting with a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk and a dash of vanilla.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut oil instead of butter, and a flax egg in place of the egg.
Can I bake these rolls in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them before baking. When you’re ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.
Are these rolls suitable for freezing?
Yes, these rolls freeze well. Make sure to wrap them individually or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Just thaw and reheat to enjoy.
How can I tell when the rolls are done?
The rolls should be golden brown on top. You can also check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious batch of banana bread cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting that everyone will love. Happy baking!