Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home, and these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are nothing short of enchanting. Imagine fluffy rolls bursting with the sweetness of ripe bananas, complemented by velvety cream cheese and a warm hint of cinnamon. Perfect for brunch or a cozy afternoon snack, these delightful treats are bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the banana mixture, mixing until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. If desired, fold in the chopped nuts for an added crunch.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and carefully roll it out into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the dough, making sure to leave a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon and sugar mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer, filling each bite with a delightful sweetness.
- Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough up tightly until you have a log. Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick pieces.
- Place the slices into the prepared baking dish, cut side up, and bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the icing by mixing the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl until the mixture is smooth and pourable.
- Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool slightly before drizzling with the icing. Serve warm and watch as smiles light up around the table!
Notes or Tips
For the perfect texture, make sure not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. This will keep your rolls light and fluffy! If you love a bit of added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mix.
Cooking Techniques
Rolling the dough gently helps maintain a soft texture in your rolls. Use a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts when slicing the rolled dough, ensuring pieces that bake evenly. Don’t rush the cooling process; allowing the rolls to rest before icing prevents the glaze from melting away!
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just make sure to thaw and drain off any excess liquid before mashing.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for about a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and roll it up, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning for a fresh start to your day.
Conclusion
Indulging in these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls is like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting hug. With each bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of flavors that brings joy to your palate. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special afternoon treat, these rolls are sure to leave you with lingering smiles and sweet memories. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a slice of happiness!