Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls for Christmas

Delight in the warm and comforting flavors of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect festive treat that brings together the sweetness of bananas and the cozy spices of cinnamon.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup mashed banana (about 2-3 medium bananas)

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Icing:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the warm milk with yeast and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana. Mix well until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, stirring until the dough comes together. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. For the filling, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until well mixed.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 20×14-inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough and sprinkle with walnuts if desired.
7. Roll up the dough tightly from the long side, then cut into 12 rolls. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish.
8. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
10. For the icing, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread generously over the warm rolls.

Prep Time: 2 hours | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Calories: 450 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

These delightful Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a wonderful addition to your holiday brunch or dessert table, bringing warmth and sweetness to your Christmas celebrations!