Introduction
Welcome, dear friends! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a delightful twist on two beloved classics: banana bread and cinnamon rolls. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy roll that bursts with the flavors of rich bananas and warm cinnamon. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are not only a treat for your taste buds but also fill your home with a sweet, comforting aroma that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast or a sweet indulgence for brunch, these rolls promise to bring smiles and satisfy cravings!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for filling)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for filling)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
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
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it to ensure that the rolls don’t stick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well blended.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until it’s all beautifully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and flour until evenly mixed.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, folding them together gently until just combined. If you’re using walnuts, now is the time to fold them in for that extra crunch!
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. The dough should be soft and pliable!
- For the sweet filling, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Spread the melted butter generously over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly across.
- With care, roll the dough tightly from one end to the other to form a log. Use a sharp knife to cut it into equal pieces, each roughly 1 to 1.5 inches wide.
- Arrange the rolls snugly in the prepared baking dish. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for about 20-30 minutes, allowing them to puff up beautifully.
- Once risen, pop the rolls into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and your kitchen smells divine!
- While the rolls are baking, whip up the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar and milk in a bowl until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- After baking, let the rolls cool slightly before drizzling the glaze generously over the warm rolls. This is the perfect finishing touch!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your rolls by adding other ingredients such as chocolate chips or raisins for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a richer glaze, you can adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired thickness. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for a few days!
Cooking Techniques
Rolling and cutting the dough may seem intimidating at first, but with practice, you’ll develop a technique that works best for you. Remember, the dough should not be overmixed after adding the flour; this will ensure your rolls remain tender and soft. Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls, so don’t rush this step!
FAQ
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, roll it up, and place it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before baking.
What if I don’t have ripe bananas?
Ripe bananas are key for sweetness and flavor. If you only have unripe bananas, consider microwaving them for 30 seconds, letting them cool slightly, and then mashing.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat; they’re a joyful experience to bake and share with loved ones. With their warm, comforting taste and delightful texture, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a special brunch or a cozy family breakfast, they’re sure to impress and satisfy. Embrace the warmth of home baking, and enjoy every sweet, cinnamon-y bite!