Cinnamon Banana Rolls: The Ultimate Cinnamon Banana Rolls Recipe

Introduction to Cinnamon Banana Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your mornings, look no further than cinnamon banana rolls with cream cheese frosting. These fluffy, sweet rolls combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon and banana, creating a deliciously satisfying breakfast or dessert. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone rushing to the table.

A Personal Story Behind My Cinnamon Banana Rolls Journey

Growing up, my grandmother would make the most incredible cinnamon rolls every Sunday. The warm, buttery dough and sweet cinnamon filling were a cherished part of our family tradition. One day, I decided to add a twist to her classic recipe by incorporating bananas, which my kids absolutely adore. The result? A new family favorite that blends nostalgia with a fresh, fruity flavor.

What Makes This Cinnamon Banana Rolls Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its unique combination of flavors and textures. The addition of mashed bananas into the dough not only enhances the flavor but also makes the rolls incredibly moist. The gooey cinnamon and brown sugar filling complement the soft rolls perfectly, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy finish that takes these rolls to the next level. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to make, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

The Full Cinnamon Banana Rolls Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 ml) lukewarm milk (about 120-130°F)
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 4 ½ – 5 cups (540 – 600 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
• 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, very soft (for filling)
• ½ cup (107 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 2 large bananas, thinly sliced (for filling)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream, slightly warmed (for pouring on rolls before baking)
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature (for frosting)
• 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 1 ½ cups (170 g) powdered sugar (for frosting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

1. Warm the Milk: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, butter, and sugar. Heat until the butter melts and the mixture reaches 120°F-130°F. This is important because too hot can kill the yeast. Remove from heat.
2. Make the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix 4 ½ cups of flour, yeast, and salt. Add the melted butter mixture and mashed bananas. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can mix by hand in a large bowl.
3. Knead the Dough: Switch to a dough hook attachment and knead at medium speed for 6-8 minutes. If the dough is sticky, add more flour a little at a time. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 ½ hours. For best results, place it in a warm, draft-free area.
5. Roll Out the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it into an 18×12 inch rectangle. Make sure to use enough flour to prevent sticking.
6. Spread the Filling: Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border at the top. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the butter. Add the banana slices on top for added sweetness.
7. Cut the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts.
8. Let the Rolls Rise: Grease a 9”x13” baking dish. Place the rolls spiral side up in the dish. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes until puffy.
9. Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Pour the warmed heavy cream over the rolls just before baking. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let cool in the pan for about 20 minutes.
10. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla and beat on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until fluffy.
11. Ice the Rolls: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into the rolls for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cinnamon Banana Rolls

These cinnamon banana rolls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further. Serve them warm with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For an added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the filling before rolling. You can also experiment with different spices or even add a layer of peanut butter for a nutty twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Banana Rolls

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling.
How should I store leftover rolls? Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm again.
Can I freeze these rolls? Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy.

Cinnamon Banana Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting

Warm, fluffy cinnamon banana rolls topped with cream cheese frosting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup lukewarm milk about 120-130°F
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• 4.5 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
• 2.25 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.5 cup mashed banana about 1 large banana
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter very soft
• 0.5 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 2 large bananas thinly sliced
• 0.25 cup heavy cream slightly warmed
• 4 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
• 1.5 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, butter, and sugar. Heat until the butter melts and the mixture reaches 120°F-130°F. Remove from heat.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix 4 ½ cups of flour, yeast, and salt. Add the melted butter mixture and mashed bananas. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
• Switch to a dough hook attachment and knead at medium speed for 6-8 minutes. If the dough is sticky, add more flour a little at a time. If kneading by hand, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 ½ hours.
• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it into an 18x12 inch rectangle.
• Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border at the top. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the butter. Add the banana slices on top.
• Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch to seal. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts.
• Grease a 9”x13” baking dish. Place the rolls spiral side up in the dish. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 45 minutes until puffy.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Pour the warmed heavy cream over the rolls just before baking. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let cool in the pan for about 20 minutes.
• In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla and beat on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes until fluffy.
• Spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into the rolls.

Notes

For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the filling. Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free area for the best results.

Keyword Cinnamon Banana Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe