Next, sprinkle the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon over the wet ingredients. Gradually add in the flour, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. You don’t want to overmix it; a few lumps are completely fine! Once your dough is ready, dust your work surface with flour and roll it out into a rectangle. For the filling, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, and if you’re using nuts, chop them up and sprinkle them along with the mixture.
Now, spread the filling evenly across the rolled-out dough. Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss (yes, you can do that!) to slice the log into about 12 equal pieces. Place each roll cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. I like to leave a little space between them so they can expand while baking. Cover them lightly with plastic wrap and let them rise for about 30 minutes.
Once the rolls have puffed up nicely, pop them in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown. While they’re baking, I like to prepare the cream cheese frosting. Just mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and enough milk until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Once the rolls are done, let them cool slightly before slathering that creamy goodness all over the top. Your kitchen will smell like a little piece of heaven!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways: with more bananas, without the nuts, and even adding chocolate chips. Each variation was delicious, but I found keeping it simple with just the bananas and the cinnamon filling brought out the best flavors. When rolling the dough, be sure to not roll it too tightly; I learned this the hard way when my first batch came out squished!
Additionally, if you’re making them for special occasions, try letting the rolls sit overnight in the fridge after shaping them. Just take them out in the morning to rise before baking. It’s such a time-saver! Lastly, don’t skip the frosting—believe me; it’s the finishing touch that makes all the difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I often see (and did myself several times!) is baking the rolls for too long. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. I recommend checking them at the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking! Your rolls should be golden brown and soft but not dried out. (See the next page below to continue…)