Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

A Perfect Combination of Banana Bread and Cinnamon Rolls!

These soft and gooey Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate breakfast or brunch treat. Infused with the natural sweetness of mashed bananas and layered with a spiced cinnamon sugar filling, these rolls are irresistible. Topped with cream cheese icing, they’re everything you love about cinnamon rolls with a delightful banana twist.

Why You Will Love It:

• Banana Sweetness: The mashed banana adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• Fluffy and Rich: The perfect texture soft and fluffy, with a deliciously rich flavor.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different fillings or toppings like walnuts or chocolate chips.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 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)

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Icing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a large bowl, mix the warm milk with yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   Add the melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana to the yeast mixture. Mix well until combined. Gradually add the flour and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Make the Filling:
   In a bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to form a spreadable paste. Set aside.
5. Shape the Rolls:
   After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a 20×14-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough and sprinkle with walnuts if using. Roll the dough into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
6. Second Rise:
   Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake:
   Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Prepare the Icing:
   While the rolls bake, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Spread the icing over the warm rolls.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:

• Extra Banana Flavor: Add banana extract for a stronger banana taste.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate for easy baking in the morning.
• Nut-Free Option: Skip the walnuts for a nut-free version, or try adding mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist!

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a comforting and delicious way to start the day soft, sweet, and packed with flavor!