Banana Bread Rolls

A Sweet, Spiced Twist on Two Classic Treats

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the soft, moist texture of banana bread with the gooey warmth of cinnamon rolls. With a rich banana base, a cinnamon-sugar swirl, and a sweet vanilla glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack.

A flavor-packed hybrid that’s soft, sticky, and unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🍌 Banana Bread Base: Moist, naturally sweet, and tender with a hint of banana flavor.
• 🌿 Cinnamon Swirl Magic: A warm, sugary center that melts into every bite.
• 🧈 Buttery Dough: Adds richness and helps create a soft, bakery-style finish.
• ⏱️ Quick Rise & Roll Method: Ready in under 3 hours—ideal for weekend baking.
• 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at family breakfasts, potlucks, or gift-giving.

Ingredients (Makes 12 rolls):

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (105–115°F / 40–45°C)
• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (or instant yeast – no proofing needed)
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for deeper flavor)
• ⅓ cup (75g) melted unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
• 2 medium mashed ripe bananas (about ½ cup – use spotty, overripe bananas)
• ½ tsp salt
• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum)
• 1 large egg (room temperature for smooth blending)

For the Filling:

• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar (or coconut sugar for extra depth)
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (or Ceylon for milder taste)
• 3 tbsp softened unsalted butter (or vegan spread for dairy-free)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (or confectioners’ sugar substitute)
• 2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream (adjust for thickness)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)

Instructions:

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine:

• Warm milk
• Sugar
• Yeast

Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy—this ensures the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add:

• Melted butter
• Mashed banana
• Salt
• Egg

Mix into the yeast mixture until smooth.

Gradually add flour in batches, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

Step 3: Knead & First Rise

Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour in a warm spot until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix:

• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon

Set aside while rolling out the dough.

Step 5: Roll & Fill

Punch down the dough and roll into a 20×14-inch (50×35 cm) rectangle.

Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border on one long edge.

Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter.

Tightly roll the dough from the long side, sealing the edge with water or egg wash.

Step 6: Slice & Second Rise

Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut into 12 equal slices .

Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.

Cover and let rise for 30 minutes while preheating oven to 350°F (175°C) .

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes , or until rolls are golden and pull apart easily.

Let cool slightly before glazing.

Step 8: Drizzle with Vanilla Glaze

In a bowl, whisk:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk or cream
• Vanilla extract

until smooth.

Drizzle over warm rolls for a sweet, glossy finish.

Each bite brings together:

• Moist, banana-soft dough layers
• Sticky, spiced cinnamon-sugar swirl
• And that classic glazed finish

Tips for Success:

• 🧈 Use Room-Temp Butter: Ensures smooth blending and even spreading.
• 🥣 Banana Tip: Overripe bananas (with brown speckles) give deeper flavor and better moisture.
• 🥟 Dough Hack: If sticky, add flour 1 tbsp at a time—don’t overdo it or rolls will be dense.
• 🧁 Swirl Add-Ins: Stir in chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or raisins with the cinnamon mix.
• ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Freeze unbaked rolls and bake fresh when ready—add 5 extra minutes to baking time.

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
• Great for school lunches, weekend mornings, or post-dinner cravings.
• Ideal with a side of scrambled eggs or fruit salad.

Nutritional Information (per roll, makes 12 – approximate):

(With regular flour and butter – per serving)

• Calories: ~250 kcal
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fat: ~10g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~20g

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls prove that two classic treats can become something even greater together. With their soft layers, sweet swirl, and rich banana-cinnamon finish—they’re a must-bake for lovers of bold, comforting pastries.