Banana Cinnamon Rolls: A Twist on the Classic Comfort Food

Banana Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful variation of the traditional cinnamon roll, incorporating the natural sweetness and moist texture of ripe bananas into the dough and filling. This recipe combines the warm, spiced flavor of cinnamon with the rich, fruity essence of bananas, all wrapped up in a soft, fluffy dough and topped with a silky vanilla icing. It’s a perfect fusion of breakfast pastry and dessert, offering a unique take on two beloved flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup mashed bananas
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, instant yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, melted butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Roll out the dough into a 16×12 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
6. Spread mashed bananas over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle over the bananas. Dot with softened butter.
7. Roll the dough tightly from the long end, and cut into 12 equal pieces.
8. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
10. For the icing, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

FAQs:

Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? A1: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to add a nutritional boost. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may make the rolls slightly denser.

Q2: How can I ensure my banana cinnamon rolls are fluffy and soft? A2: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active, and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area until it’s doubled in size. Avoid adding too much flour during kneading, as this can make the rolls tough.

Q3: Can these rolls be made ahead of time? A3: Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and complete the second rise before baking.

Q4: What can I use if I don’t have a stand mixer? A4: You can mix the dough by hand using a sturdy spoon and then knead it on a lightly floured surface. It might take a bit more effort, but the results will be just as delicious.

Q5: How should I store leftover banana cinnamon rolls? A5: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

Banana Cinnamon Rolls are a wonderful innovation in the world of sweet rolls, blending the comforting essence of cinnamon with the delightful sweetness of bananas. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast treat or a cozy dessert, these rolls are sure to impress with their tender texture, aromatic flavor, and beautiful presentation. With the option to prepare ahead, they’re also a fantastic choice for leisurely mornings or gatherings. Dive into the recipe and discover a new favorite that might just redefine your concept of cinnamon rolls.