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Soft Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Moist banana-infused cinnamon rolls filled with buttery cinnamon sugar and topped with sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rise Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough

  • 2 ½–3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup warm milk
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Filling

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Activate the Yeast
    In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar.
    Sprinkle the yeast on top and let stand for 5–10 minutes, until bubbly and foamy.
  • Make the Dough
    Mash the bananas in a large bowl.
    Add the egg, melted butter, salt, and yeast mixture.
    Add flour gradually, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  • Knead & First Rise
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
    Knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
    Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled.
  • Prepare the Filling
    Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a spreadable paste.
  • Shape the Rolls
    Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
    Spread the filling evenly across the dough.
    Roll tightly from the long side into a log.
    Cut into 12 equal slices.
    Arrange rolls in a greased baking dish.
  • Second Rise
    Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
  • Bake
    Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Glaze
    Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
    Drizzle over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Extremely ripe bananas create the best texture and flavor
  • For richer taste, replace milk with heavy cream
  • Add nuts or chocolate chips for extra customization