Description
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls bring together the best of two beloved treats—ripe bananas give the soft, yeasty dough a naturally sweet, moist texture, while the cinnamon swirl and vanilla glaze deliver the cozy flavor of classic cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re a sweet, spiced way to use up overripe bananas.
Ingredients
For the dough:
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1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
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½ cup warm milk (110°F)
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1 large egg
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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3 to 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp cinnamon
For the filling:
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½ cup brown sugar
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2 tsp cinnamon
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
For the glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
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½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2️⃣ Make the dough: Add mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3️⃣ First rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours or until doubled in size.
4️⃣ Prepare filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll out the dough into a 10×14-inch rectangle. Spread with softened butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly.
5️⃣ Shape and cut: Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 12 rolls. Place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6️⃣ Second rise: Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
7️⃣ Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 22–28 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
8️⃣ Make glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over warm rolls and serve.
Notes
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Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
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Make ahead: Prepare the rolls up to step 6 and refrigerate overnight. Let rise in the morning before baking.
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Frosting option: Swap glaze for cream cheese frosting if you prefer a richer topping.
- Prep Time: 25 min
- Cook Time: 25 min