Indulge in Florida’s Fusion Flavors: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Banana bread and cinnamon rolls are two classic comfort foods that people love for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime treat. Imagine combining these two into one mouthwatering dish: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls! This Florida-inspired recipe takes the best of both worlds, delivering the softness and sweet warmth of banana bread wrapped in the gooey, spiced layers of a cinnamon roll. Whether you’re serving them at a weekend brunch or whipping them up as a treat for guests, these rolls embody the bright, fresh flavors of the Sunshine State.

Photo byNick Davies

The Fusion of Flavors

Florida’s love for tropical fruits is no secret, and bananas are often a favorite. Merging banana bread into cinnamon rolls creates a delightful fusion of flavors. The natural sweetness of the banana adds a layer of richness to the dough, while the cinnamon sugar filling gives that familiar warm, spiced depth. Topped with a creamy frosting, these rolls are soft, indulgent, and perfect for a sunny Florida morning or a cozy evening.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the dough:
• • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
• For the filling:
• • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• For the frosting:
• • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add mashed banana, eggs, softened butter, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, then place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Assemble the rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12x18 inches). Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the dough and sprinkle with nuts if desired. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut it into 10-12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes.
4. Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and baked through.
5. Frosting: While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar, cream cheese, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls once they are out of the oven.

The Perfect Ending

When you bite into these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll feel a soft, slightly sweet banana flavor combined with the warm spiced cinnamon center. Each roll is moist and fluffy, just like the best cinnamon rolls should be, with that tropical Florida twist from the banana. They’re the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of both banana bread and cinnamon rolls in one irresistible dish.

Sources:

(My Life After Dairy)​(The Novice Chef)