Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

1. Preparing the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the frothy yeast mixture to the banana mixture and stir to combine.
4. Add Flour and Salt: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
6. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Preparing the Filling:

7. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside the softened butter and chopped nuts.

3. Assembling the Rolls:

8. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 16×12 inches.
9. Spread the Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture over the butter, and then scatter the chopped nuts on top if using.
10. Roll the Dough: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it.
11. Cut into Rolls: Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

4. Second Rise and Baking:

12. Second Rise: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
13. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
14. Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If the tops are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

5. Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

15. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
16. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Add milk as needed to reach your desired frosting consistency.

6. Finishing the Rolls:

17. Frost the Rolls: Allow the rolls to cool slightly, then spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls.

7. Serving:

18. Serve: Serve the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Warm Environment for Rising: Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place to help it rise properly. A slightly warmed oven (turned off) works well.
• Cutting the Rolls: Use unflavored dental floss to cut the rolls cleanly without squashing them.
• Frosting: Frost the rolls while they are still warm so the frosting melts slightly and coats them beautifully.

Variations:

• Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for an extra indulgent treat.
• Fruit Additions: Add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for a fruity twist.
• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts for a nut-free version.

Conclusion:

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining the comforting flavors of banana bread with the sweet, spiced goodness of cinnamon rolls. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat any time of day. Follow these detailed steps to create soft, fluffy, and delicious Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls that will become a favorite in your home. Enjoy baking and savoring this wonderful fusion of flavors!