Why Make This Recipe
Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, combining the soft, flaky texture of crescent dough with the sweet, comforting flavors of banana and cinnamon. This recipe is quick and simple, making it perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat anytime. They are warm, gooey, and topped with cream cheese icing, making them irresistible!
How to Make Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- 1 (8 ounce) package crescent dough sheet, such as Pillsbury
- 1 small ripe banana, mashed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (180 degrees C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with cooking spray; set aside.
- Roll out the crescent dough sheet onto a clean work surface, shaping it into an 8×12-inch rectangle.
- In a small bowl, stir the mashed banana and melted butter together until evenly combined. Spread the banana mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border along the longer side farthest from you.
- Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in another small bowl; sprinkle this mixture evenly over the banana layer. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top.
- Starting from the longer side closest to you, roll the dough up tightly to form a log. Pinch the seam gently to seal.
- Cut the dough log into 9 slices, about 1 1/4 inches thick. Arrange the slices, cut side down, about 1/2 inch apart on the prepared baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest in the baking pan.
- For the icing, beat the cream cheese and softened butter together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes, until combined. Add the confectioner’s sugar and vanilla extract; beat until smooth, about 1 minute.
- Spread the icing over the warm rolls, garnish with cinnamon, and serve immediately. This recipe is developed by Amanda Holstein.
How to Serve Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls are best served warm, allowing the icing to melt slightly into the soft dough. They are perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
How to Store Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To enjoy them warm again, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips to Make Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Make sure your banana is very ripe for the sweetest flavor.
- If you don’t have walnuts or prefer a nut-free version, you can leave them out or replace them with chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
- To make your rolls even more special, consider adding a pinch of vanilla extract to the banana mixture.
Variation
You can easily switch up the flavors by adding other spices like ginger or using different toppings like chocolate frosting instead of cream cheese icing.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular bread dough instead of crescent dough?
Yes, you can use regular bread dough; just roll it out to the same size and follow the same instructions.
2. What can I use instead of cream cheese for the icing?
You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or leave it out entirely for a simpler glaze made of sugar and milk.
3. How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!