Banana Bread Bliss: The Cinnamon Rolls You Didn’t Know You Needed

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   In a small bowl, combine warmed milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms the yeast is active.
2. 2

   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. 3

   Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and 1/2 cup mashed banana to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed for 2 minutes until a shaggy dough forms.
4. 4

   Increase speed to medium-low and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. It should be slightly sticky.
5. 5

   Lightly grease a large bowl. Transfer the dough to the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. 6

   While the dough rises, prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and 1/4 cup mashed banana. Mix until a thick paste forms.
7. 7

   Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and roll into a 12x18-inch rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to keep edges straight.
8. 8

   Evenly spread the banana brown sugar filling over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border along one long edge.
9. 9

   Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam closed to seal it.
10. 10

    Using a sharp knife or dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal pieces, about 1.5 inches thick.
11. 11

    Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the rolls in the dish, leaving a little space between them.
12. 12

    Cover the dish loosely with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for another 30-45 minutes, or until noticeably puffy and nearly doubled.
13. 13

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
14. 14

    Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
15. 15

    While rolls cool slightly (about 10 minutes), prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
16. 16

    Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Beat until light and fluffy. Add milk/cream if needed for desired consistency.
17. 17

    Spread generously over the warm banana bread cinnamon rolls. Serve immediately.