Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful fusion of classic banana bread and sweet cinnamon rolls. These soft, fluffy treats are perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack, offering the comforting flavors of banana and cinnamon in every bite.

Ingredients

Dough:
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar
1 packet active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm milk
1 egg
1/2 tsp salt
3 cups all-purpose flour

Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp ground cinnamon

Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and salt. Add the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Make the Filling:
   In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Assemble the Rolls:
   Roll out the dough into a large rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other, forming a log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
5. Bake:
   Place the slices in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Glaze:
   Mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls. Enjoy your delicious Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings. The prep time is about 30 minutes, while the cooking time is 25-30 minutes, resulting in a total time of around 2 hours, including rising time.

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for added texture.
• Fruity Twist: Incorporate chocolate chips or raisins into the filling for a sweeter treat.
• Different Glazes: Experiment with cream cheese glaze instead of a vanilla glaze for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
   Yes, thaw and mash frozen bananas before using them in the recipe.
2. What if I don’t have active dry yeast?
   You can use instant yeast; just mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
3. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the rolls up to the baking step, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.
4. How do I know when the rolls are done?
   The rolls should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
5. Can I freeze these rolls?
   Yes, freeze them after baking and glaze, then thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
6. What can I serve with these rolls?
   They pair well with coffee or a hot cup of tea.
7. Can I add more spices?
   Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice for additional flavor in the filling.
8. What if I want a lower sugar option?
   Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the filling or glaze to your taste.
9. How can I make these gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
10. What if my dough doesn’t rise?
    Ensure your yeast is active and your environment is warm. If the dough is too cold, it may not rise properly.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of both worlds, creating a sweet and comforting treat that everyone will love. Perfect for brunch or a special occasion, these rolls are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful blend of banana and cinnamon flavors in every fluffy bite!

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