These Sourdough Banana Cinnamon Rolls bring together the best of two beloved treats banana bread and cinnamon rolls! The naturally leavened dough creates a light, fluffy texture with a subtle tang that perfectly complements the warm, caramelized brown sugar cinnamon filling. Each bite is infused with rich banana flavor, making these rolls uniquely indulgent.
Finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these rolls are an irresistible balance of sweetness and creaminess. They’re the perfect addition to a cozy breakfast, brunch gathering, or special weekend treat. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or just love a twist on classic cinnamon rolls, this recipe is a must try!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
Dough:
- 215g mashed banana (about 2 medium)
- 65g whole milk
- 60g active sourdough starter
- 70g raw sugar (or coconut sugar/honey)
- 1 large egg
- 480g bread flour
- 5g salt
- 113g unsalted butter, room temperature (1 stick)
Filling:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Frosting:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter and milk. Add mashed banana, sugar, and egg. Stir in flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms.
- Incorporate Butter: Melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Mix into the dough until fully combined.
- Strengthen the Dough: Cover and let rest for 30 minutes. Knead using a stand mixer (medium speed, dough hook) for 10 minutes or perform 3 sets of stretch and folds by hand.
- Bulk Fermentation: Cover with a damp cloth and let the dough rise at room temperature (72°F/21°C) for 8-9 hours or overnight until doubled in size.
- Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 13”x15” rectangle.
- Prepare the Filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Spread butter evenly on dough, leaving a 1” margin on one edge. Sprinkle sugar mixture and nuts (if using).
- Roll & Cut: Roll dough tightly from the opposite end of the margin. Lightly wet the edge to seal. Slice into 10 even rolls with a sharp knife.
- Second Rise: Arrange rolls in a greased 9”x13” pan, cover, and let rise for 2 hours at room temperature.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Finish: Cool rolls for 15 minutes before frosting. Serve warm!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: ~10 hours (including fermentation)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 10 rolls
Sourdough Banana Cinnamon Rolls: A Flavorful Fusion of Tradition and Sweet Indulgence
If you love cinnamon rolls and banana bread, this Sourdough Banana Cinnamon Roll recipe is the ultimate treat. Combining the tangy complexity of naturally leavened sourdough with the comforting sweetness of ripe bananas, these rolls offer a one of a kind depth of flavor and texture. The result? A perfectly soft, slightly chewy, and beautifully caramelized cinnamon roll that melts in your mouth with every bite.
Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that rely on commercial yeast, these sourdough cinnamon rolls take a slower, more natural fermentation approach. This not only enhances their flavor but also makes them easier to digest, thanks to the breakdown of gluten and phytic acid during the fermentation process. If you’re a fan of sourdough baking, this recipe is an exciting way to expand your repertoire beyond classic bread loaves.
Why Sourdough? The Magic of Fermentation
Sourdough baking has been around for thousands of years, originating as a natural way to leaven bread before the advent of commercial yeast. Instead of relying on instant yeast for quick rise times, sourdough bread uses a live starter a mixture of flour and water that captures wild yeast and beneficial bacteria from the environment.
This fermentation process does more than just create bubbles for a fluffy texture; it also enhances the digestibility of baked goods, making them gentler on the stomach. Many people who have trouble digesting regular yeasted bread find that sourdough is a much better alternative. Additionally, the longer fermentation time allows the dough to develop complex flavors, giving sourdough its signature tangy, slightly acidic taste.
When combined with naturally sweet bananas and a rich cinnamon sugar filling, sourdough creates a perfectly balanced pastry that isn’t overly sweet but still incredibly satisfying.
The Unique Role of Bananas in This Recipe
Bananas play an essential role in these cinnamon rolls. Their natural sweetness means you can use less added sugar while still achieving a deliciously rich flavor. Mashed bananas also contribute moisture, making the dough extra soft and fluffy without the need for excessive butter or eggs.
Another reason bananas work so well in this recipe is their ability to enhance fermentation. Since bananas contain natural sugars, they help feed the sourdough starter, allowing it to stay active and promote a good rise. This means you get a beautifully airy texture without relying on commercial leavening agents.
If you’ve ever had banana bread, you know how well bananas pair with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. That same cozy, comforting flavor profile is present in these cinnamon rolls, but with an added depth from the sourdough process.
Slow Fermentation for Maximum Flavor and Texture
One of the key differences between these sourdough banana cinnamon rolls and traditional ones is the extended fermentation time. Instead of rushing the process with instant yeast, this recipe allows the dough to develop over several hours typically overnight so that the flavors have time to fully mature.
This slow fermentation method offers several advantages:
- Better Texture – The gluten structure is naturally strengthened over time, resulting in a dough that is soft, airy, and easy to handle.
- Improved Digestibility – Fermented grains are easier for the body to break down, making these rolls a better option for those with mild gluten sensitivities.
- Enhanced Flavor – The sourdough starter introduces subtle tangy notes that beautifully complement the sweetness of the bananas and the warmth of the cinnamon filling.
Patience is key when making these rolls, but the results are absolutely worth it.
The Perfectly Balanced Cinnamon Filling
While the dough itself is a showstopper, the filling takes these rolls to the next level. A classic cinnamon roll filling is typically made from brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. This recipe stays true to that formula but also includes optional chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and nuttiness.
The brown sugar and cinnamon caramelize as the rolls bake, creating an irresistibly gooey center. Meanwhile, the butter ensures the filling melts into the dough, infusing every layer with flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with additional spices such as nutmeg, cardamom, or even a touch of ginger for extra warmth.
For those who love a little crunch, toasted nuts are a fantastic addition. They not only complement the sweetness but also add an earthy richness that pairs beautifully with the tangy dough.
Cream Cheese Frosting: The Icing on the Cake
No cinnamon roll is complete without a generous layer of frosting. These sourdough banana cinnamon rolls are topped with a classic cream cheese frosting, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the rolls with a slight tanginess. The combination of butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla creates a smooth, luscious topping that melts beautifully over the warm rolls.
If you prefer a lighter glaze, you can swap out the cream cheese for a simple powdered sugar icing by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. This will create a thinner, more translucent glaze that still adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the rolls.
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon to your frosting. These small touches can enhance the overall experience and make your rolls taste even more special.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These sourdough banana cinnamon rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special weekend treat. Their combination of natural fermentation, caramelized filling, and creamy frosting makes them an irresistible addition to any table.
For an elevated experience, try serving them with:
- A hot cup of coffee or chai tea – The warm spices in the rolls complement the flavors of a rich, dark roast or a spiced tea blend.
- A side of fresh fruit – Strawberries, blueberries, or sliced oranges add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rolls.
- A dollop of Greek yogurt – If you want a slightly tangy, creamy side to balance out the sweetness, yogurt is a great option.
If you’re making these rolls for a holiday breakfast or brunch gathering, consider doubling the batch they disappear quickly!
Storing and Reheating
Because these cinnamon rolls are naturally leavened, they tend to stay fresh longer than traditional yeasted pastries. However, to keep them at their best, follow these storage tips:
- At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- In the freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes.
If reheating from room temperature, a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave will soften them beautifully.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try These Rolls
Sourdough banana cinnamon rolls are a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors, making them a standout addition to any baker’s repertoire. They bring together the nostalgic comfort of banana bread with the indulgence of classic cinnamon rolls, all while benefiting from the unique qualities of slow sourdough fermentation.
Whether you’re new to sourdough or an experienced baker, this recipe is a fun way to explore the versatility of a sourdough starter beyond bread. The combination of soft, pillowy dough, gooey cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
So, if you’re looking for a homemade treat that feels both decadent and wholesome, give these sourdough banana cinnamon rolls a try. Your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share them with you will thank you!