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Brown Butter Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Brown Butter Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter with moist and tender banana bread dough wrapped around a perfectly spiced cinnamon and brown sugar swirl. These gooey, flavorful rolls are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and offer a unique and comforting twist on classic cinnamon rolls.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 ripe overripe bananas
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Filling Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted brown butter (from dough preparation)
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Optional Toppings

  • Powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with milk)
  • Cream cheese frosting
  • Chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
  • Mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brown Butter: Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Swirl frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 4-6 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Mash the Bananas: In a large bowl, mash 3 ripe bananas until smooth but still slightly chunky to keep moisture and natural sweetness.
  3. Mix the Dough: To the mashed bananas, add 1 cup warm milk, 2 1/4 teaspoons yeast, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, the cooled brown butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir to combine. Gradually add 3 1/2 cups flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
  5. Prepare the Filling: Mix 3/4 cup packed brown sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon in a small bowl. Once dough has risen, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Brush generously with some of the reserved brown butter, then evenly sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
  6. Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long side, pinching the seam closed. Slice into 12 equal portions using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.
  7. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch pan, cover with a cloth, and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  8. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
  9. Optional Glaze: While warm, drizzle with glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or spread cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
  • Do not skip browning the butter, as it adds a distinct nutty flavor.
  • Knead dough just until smooth to maintain tender rolls.
  • Avoid overproofing the dough to prevent dense or overly soft rolls.
  • Slice rolls evenly using a sharp knife or dental floss.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, banana bread, cinnamon rolls, cinnamon swirl, breakfast rolls, brunch, comfort food