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Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Warm, cozy cinnamon rolls infused with the sweet, tender goodness of banana bread—perfect for weekend brunch, holiday breakfasts, or any time you want a nostalgic treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Stand Mixer with Dough Hook or Wooden Spoon
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Microwave
  • Rolling Pin

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour initial
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour added gradually to form dough
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp rapid rise yeast
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup milk warmed to about 110°F
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter warmed and mostly melted
  • 1 cup mashed overripe bananas mature bananas

For the Filling

  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt pinch
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened, for spreading

For the Frosting

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Whisk together 2 cups flour, brown sugar, yeast, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
  • Step 2: Warm milk and butter in 30-second bursts in the microwave until mixture reaches about 110°F and butter is mostly melted.
  • Step 3: Add warm milk mixture and mashed banana to dry ingredients. Mix with dough hook or wooden spoon until combined.
  • Step 4: Gradually add remaining 2 cups flour, mixing after each addition until shaggy dough forms. Knead on floured surface for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–7 minutes with dough hook until smooth and elastic.
  • Step 5: Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  • Step 6: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for filling.
  • Step 7: Punch down risen dough and roll out to 18x12-inch rectangle on floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture. Press gently to stick.
  • Step 8: Roll dough tightly from long edge into log. Pinch seam to seal. Slice into 12 even rolls using dental floss or serrated knife.
  • Step 9: Arrange rolls cut-side up in greased or parchment-lined 9x13-inch pan. Cover loosely and let rise 45–60 minutes until puffy and soft.
  • Step 10: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake rolls 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool 15–20 minutes before frosting.
  • Step 11: Beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy. Spread frosting over warm rolls.

Notes

Make ahead by preparing rolls up to second rise, refrigerate overnight, then bring to room temperature and bake. For dairy-free, substitute milk, butter, and cream cheese with plant-based versions. Try adding nuts or chocolate chips to filling. For lighter frosting, use vanilla glaze.
Keyword Banana Bread, Cinnamon Rolls, Comfort Food