Soft, fragrant banana cinnamon rolls that combine ripe banana sweetness with the warm spice of cinnamon, perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 30 minutes
Yield:9–12 rolls
Category:Breakfast, Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp instant or active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm milk (about 105–115°F / 40–46°C)
2 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 large egg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (plus more for filling)
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar (for filling)
Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1–2 tbsp milk or cream, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, mashed banana, sugar, yeast, salt, egg, and 1 cup of flour. Mix until smooth, then gradually add remaining flour until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
Spread softened butter over the dough. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly over the surface.
Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Cut into 9–12 rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.
Arrange rolls in a greased baking pan, leaving space between them. Cover and let rise again until nearly doubled, about 30–45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Optional glaze: whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
For a vegan version, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water).
Add nuts or chocolate chips for variation.
To make ahead, refrigerate dough after first rise and bake the next day.
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes or microwave briefly.