Introduction
Who can resist the scent of warm, freshly baked rolls wafting through the kitchen? These delightful Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls bring together the comforting flavors of ripe bananas, sweet cinnamon, and a touch of nutty goodness. Whether you’re looking to impress at brunch or enjoy a cozy treat at home, these rolls are sure to be a hit! Fluffy, decadent, and drizzled with a sweet glaze, these rolls are the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Filling
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round baking dish, ensuring it’s ready to beautifully cradle your rolls.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until they reach a creamy consistency, allowing their natural sweetness to shine through.
- Add in the sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is cozy and combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon, filling the air with a warm spice aroma.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the banana concoction, stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix; we want these rolls to be soft and tender!
- On a floured surface, roll out your dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick, envisioning those fluffy rolls to come.
- Spread the softened butter generously over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts if you’re using them, creating a sweet, aromatic layer.
- Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the longer edges, keeping it snug but not too tight.
- Slice the log into rolls, about 1 inch thick, and place them lovingly in the greased baking dish, spacing them closely together.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and your kitchen is filled with a heavenly scent.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and luscious.
- Once the rolls are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before drizzling with the sweet glaze for an extra touch of joy.
Notes or Tips
For a twist on flavors, try substituting the walnuts or pecans with chocolate chips or dried fruit. Additionally, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of spice!
Cooking Techniques
When rolling out the dough, ensuring an even thickness will help your rolls bake uniformly. If you find the dough is sticking, a little extra flour on your surface can help, but be careful not to overdo it as too much flour can make the rolls dense.
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature and rise slightly before proceeding to bake.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas?
If your bananas aren’t quite ripe yet, placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two can speed up the ripening process. Alternatively, you can bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they turn black. Let them cool before mashing!
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate comfort treat, combining the beloved flavors of banana bread with the delightful twist of cinnamon rolls. Perfect for brunch or a sweet afternoon snack, they are sure to leave a lasting impression on your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe—the perfect excuse to indulge in some homemade goodness!