Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful mix of comfort and indulgence, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are your ticket to pure bliss. Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, infused with the tropical sweetness of ripe bananas and topped with a creamy glaze. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors — the warm, mellow notes of banana, a hint of spice from the cinnamon, and the rich indulgence of butter. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy dessert, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
For the filling:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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 pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
- Mix in the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until just blended.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined — be careful not to overmix!
- If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and chocolate chips into the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the filling by mixing together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, followed by the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log, sealing in that delightful filling.
- Slice the log into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in the greased baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown and irresistible.
- While the rolls bake, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once baked, allow the rolls to cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls, letting it soak in a bit before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For best results, use ripe bananas as they provide the most flavor and sweetness.
- If you’re not a fan of nuts, feel free to omit them or substitute with dried fruit for a different twist.
- These rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just warm them slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!
Cooking Techniques
Rolling out dough is key to achieving that perfect spiral of filling in your cinnamon rolls. Make sure your work surface is well-floured to prevent sticking. Additionally, be gentle when folding in chocolate chips or nuts; you want to keep the air in the dough for a light, fluffy texture.
FAQ
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls in a sealed container. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
How do I know when the rolls are done?
You’ll know they are ready when they are a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are not just a recipe; they are an experience to share with loved ones. With their delightful flavors and comforting nature, they’re perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a warm treat that’s sure to brighten your day!