Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1 cup warm milk (110°F) – activates the yeast and enriches the dough
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2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 standard packet)
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1/2 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the dough
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – adds richness
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2 large eggs – binds and softens the dough
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1 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor
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4 cups all-purpose flour – structure and chew
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1 cup mashed ripe banana (2–3 medium bananas) – flavor and moisture
For the Filling:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – makes the filling luscious
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1 cup brown sugar – adds depth and caramel notes
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2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – the heart of every cinnamon roll
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1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) – adds texture and nuttiness
For the Icing:
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4 oz cream cheese, softened – rich and tangy base
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 1/2 cups powdered sugar – for smooth sweetness
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – for warmth and depth
Optional Add-ins and Substitutions:
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Swap walnuts for pecans or omit altogether for nut-free.
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Use whole wheat flour for added fiber (start with half).
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Try maple extract instead of vanilla for a cozy twist.
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Add mini chocolate chips for an extra indulgent bite.
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes foamy. This is a sign the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Stir in the melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana. The bananas should be fully mashed—lumps are fine, but you want them incorporated for even flavor and moisture.
Begin adding the flour one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Once it becomes too difficult to stir, transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until the dough is soft, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. I like to place mine in the oven (turned off!) with the light on.
While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. If using nuts, have them chopped and ready to go.
Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle—about 20×14 inches. Spread the filling evenly over the surface and sprinkle with walnuts, if using.
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log. Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut into 12 even rolls.
Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them slightly. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy and almost doubled.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through. The center rolls should spring back when touched.
While the rolls are cooling slightly, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls. Serve immediately while the icing melts into every swirl.
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g