Banana Cream Sweet Rolls
If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that combines the luscious flavor of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of a classic dessert, look no further than Banana Cream Sweet Rolls. These fluffy, tender rolls are infused with banana essence and filled with smooth cream, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy dessert. Simple to make yet impressively delightful, Banana Cream Sweet Rolls deliver that homemade charm without taking all day in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Ready in under an hour, these rolls let you enjoy a fresh-baked treat without the wait.
- Fluffy Texture: The soft dough and creamy filling combine for a light, airy bite every time.
- Balanced Sweetness: Naturally sweetened with bananas and a touch of sugar, they satisfy cravings without overindulging.
- Versatile Anytime Treat: Ideal for a cozy breakfast, afternoon snack, or a comforting dessert option.
- Inviting Aroma: The scent of bananas and fresh-baked dough fills your kitchen like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor—every component plays an important role in achieving perfect Banana Cream Sweet Rolls that are soft, flavorful, and full of banana goodness.
- Ripe Bananas: Use well-mashed bananas for natural sweetness and moistness.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and softness for the dough.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the rolls.
- Yeast: The leavening agent responsible for that fluffy, airy texture.
- Milk: Used warm to activate yeast and keep the dough tender.
- Butter: Adds richness and a slightly crisp edge when baked.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the banana flavor and rounds out the taste.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
- Heavy Cream or Cream Cheese: For the luscious banana cream filling that melts in your mouth.
Variations for Banana Cream Sweet Rolls
Feel free to personalize your Banana Cream Sweet Rolls to match your taste or dietary needs—this recipe adapts wonderfully to added flavors or healthier substitutions.
- Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans inside for a satisfying crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for allergy-friendly rolls.
- Vegan Swap: Replace butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk and cream alternatives.
- Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for extra indulgence.
- Spiced Banana: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg to amplify warmth and depth.
How to Make Banana Cream Sweet Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk to around 110°F to activate the yeast. Mix the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar from the total amount and let it bloom until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine flour, the rest of the sugar, and salt. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the milk-yeast mixture. Stir until the dough comes together, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Place your dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and set aside in a warm place for 30 to 40 minutes or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for fluffy Banana Cream Sweet Rolls!
Step 3: Make the Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the banana cream filling by blending heavy cream or cream cheese with a little sugar and mashed banana until smooth and creamy. Set it aside to thicken slightly in the fridge.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the banana cream filling evenly over the surface. Carefully roll it from the longer edge to form a tight log, then slice into 8 to 10 equal pieces.
Step 5: Second Rise
Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let them rest for another 20 minutes to puff up further before baking.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant. Let them cool slightly then, if desired, drizzle with a simple glaze or powdered sugar.
Pro Tips for Making Banana Cream Sweet Rolls
- Perfect Yeast Activation: Make sure milk is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the more natural sweetness and flavor.
- Do Not Overmix: Knead enough for elasticity but avoid overhandling to keep rolls tender.
- Second Rise is Key: Don’t skip the second rise for light, fluffy rolls.
- Cooling Time: Allow rolls to cool a bit to set the filling and avoid runny cream.
How to Serve Banana Cream Sweet Rolls
Garnishes
Top your rolls with fresh banana slices, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to enhance their natural sweetness and create an inviting presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair these sweet rolls with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or a refreshing glass of milk to balance the creamy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the rolls warm in a rustic wooden basket lined with a clean napkin or as a plated brunch centerpiece surrounded by fresh fruit and edible flowers for a beautiful touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Banana Cream Sweet Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Freezing
Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Warm your rolls in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to revive their fresh-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for Banana Cream Sweet Rolls?
Absolutely! Thaw and mash them well, then drain any excess moisture to keep the dough from becoming too wet.
Is it possible to make these rolls without yeast?
While yeast gives the traditional fluffy texture, you can try baking powder as a leavening substitute, but texture and rise may be different.
How long do Banana Cream Sweet Rolls stay fresh?
They are best enjoyed within two days when stored properly at room temperature, but can also be frozen for longer keeping.
Can I replace heavy cream with cream cheese?
Yes, cream cheese can be mixed with a little milk or yogurt to create a creamy filling with a slightly tangier taste.
What is the best flour to use for soft sweet rolls?
All-purpose flour works perfectly, but for an even softer crumb, pastry flour or a blend of all-purpose and cake flour is great.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about homemade Banana Cream Sweet Rolls—their inviting aroma, soft texture, and luscious filling bring a comforting warmth that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re treating yourself on a relaxed morning or impressing friends during brunch, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the natural sweetness of bananas with an easy, fuss-free method. So, why wait? Whip up a batch of these delightful rolls today and let your kitchen fill with the cozy scent of banana cream bliss.
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PrintBanana Cream Sweet Rolls
Banana Cream Sweet Rolls are fluffy, tender rolls infused with ripe banana flavor and filled with a luscious banana cream made from heavy cream or cream cheese. Perfect as a comforting breakfast or dessert, these rolls combine natural sweetness with a creamy filling and a soft, airy texture. Ready in under an hour, they fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of fresh-baked bananas and make an easy yet impressive homemade treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 rolls 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for yeast activation)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (remaining)
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 ripe bananas, well mashed
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients
- ½ cup heavy cream or cream cheese
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
Optional Garnishes
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh banana slices
- Caramel sauce drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk to around 110°F to activate the yeast. Mix the yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar and let it bloom until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the milk-yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then knead on a floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and set in a warm place for 30 to 40 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling: While the dough rises, blend heavy cream or cream cheese with sugar and mashed banana until smooth and creamy. Chill in the refrigerator to thicken slightly.
- Shape the Rolls: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread the banana cream filling evenly over the dough. Roll it tightly from the longer edge to form a log, then slice into 8 to 10 equal pieces.
- Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rest for 20 minutes to puff up further.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally, drizzle with glaze or dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum natural sweetness and flavor.
- Knead the dough until elastic but do not overwork to keep rolls tender.
- Don’t skip the second rise to ensure light and fluffy rolls.
- Allow rolls to cool a bit so the filling sets and does not become runny.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Banana Cream Sweet Rolls, banana rolls, sweet rolls, breakfast rolls, banana dessert, homemade sweet rolls, cream-filled rolls
