Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls blend all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of classic banana bread with the irresistible ooey-gooey swirl of cinnamon rolls. Imagine the warmth of cinnamon filling nestled in pillowy banana-spiked dough, crowned with creamy vanilla-scented icing—every bite is pure breakfast comfort! Whether you’re baking for a brunch crowd or treating yourself on a quiet morning, these sweet rolls are guaranteed to become your new obsession. This recipe takes the best of both worlds and rolls them into an unforgettable treat that truly delivers on flavor, aroma, and joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls lies in using simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one does its part, from creating a tender, fluffy dough to giving the filling that classic cinnamon-kissed richness and finishing things off with luscious icing.
- Warm milk: Ensures a soft, tender dough and activates the yeast for that beautiful rise.
- Active dry yeast: The key to billowy, bakery-style rolls—don’t skip letting it foam!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and encourages browning for a lovely golden bake.
- Melted unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, making every bite extra decadent.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and give the dough extra lift and softness.
- Salt: Balances out the sweetness and deepens every flavor note.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, giving structure and that classic chewy texture.
- Mashed banana (about 2-3 medium bananas): This is where the banana bread flavor comes to life—use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
- Softened butter (for filling): Helps the cinnamon-sugar goodness swirl into every bite.
- Brown sugar: Brings out a warm caramel note in the filling that’s pure comfort.
- Ground cinnamon: The hero spice, weaving sweet warmth throughout each swirl.
- Chopped walnuts (optional): For a bit of nutty crunch, adding old-school banana bread vibes.
- Cream cheese (for icing): Gives the frosting that signature tangy creaminess we love on cinnamon rolls.
- Powdered sugar: Creates a silky-smooth, sweet glaze to drape decadently over the rolls.
- Vanilla extract: A small splash gives the icing a heavenly aroma and rounds out the flavor.
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start your dough by whisking together warm milk, active dry yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Give it five minutes for the yeast to come alive and get bubbly—this step ensures your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls will rise soft and tall every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add in your melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana to the foamy yeast mixture. Stir until everything’s beautifully combined. You’ll already smell that banana goodness making its debut!
Step 3: Form and Knead the Dough
Slowly add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes—this gives you that signature pillowy texture that sets these rolls apart.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough to a gently greased bowl, cover, and let it rest in a warm place for about an hour. You’re waiting for it to double in size, getting airy and light—the anticipation only makes these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls sweeter!
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. This trio is the heart and soul of your filling and brings that classic swirl you just can’t wait to taste. Stir in the walnuts if you’re looking for extra texture and flavor.
Step 6: Roll the Dough and Add Filling
Dust your counter and roll your dough into a big 20×14-inch rectangle. Slather on your cinnamon-brown sugar butter, spreading it edge to edge. Sprinkle walnuts over the top for a satisfying nutty crunch in every bite.
Step 7: Shape and Slice
Starting with the long side, roll the dough up tightly like a giant sweet log. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to gently cut the log into 12 even slices. Arrange each roll in a greased baking dish, with a little space for that second rise.
Step 8: Second Rise
Cover the pan and let your rolls rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When you peek under the towel, you’ll notice your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are plush and puffy—perfect for baking!
Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your rolls in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until their tops are golden brown and your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible. The swirls should look glossy and irresistible—patience, you’re almost there!
Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Icing
While the rolls cool for a few minutes, beat together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until lusciously smooth. Spread generously over the slightly warm Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls so the icing melts into every nook and cranny.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
Nobody can resist a fresh, warm Banana Bread Cinnamon Roll drizzled with extra icing! For a finishing touch, try a sprinkle of chopped walnuts, a dash of cinnamon, or a scattering of thinly sliced bananas for banana bread flair.
Side Dishes
A cup of strong, dark coffee or a glass of cold milk pairs perfectly with these sweet, banana-infused swirls. If you want to make it a full brunch spread, serve with crisp bacon, fresh fruit, or a simple scramble so everyone gets a little savory to contrast the sweet.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls on a pretty cake stand for a dramatic centerpiece at your next brunch or family breakfast. For a fun twist, bake them in a muffin tin for pull-apart rolls, or package individual rolls in parchment and twine for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls keep beautifully! Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to five days. They’ll stay soft and sticky—just as they should!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls (either iced or un-iced). Once cooled, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag or container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or briefly in the microwave when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and warm it for about 30 seconds, or pop several in a covered baking dish in a low oven until heated through. If you saved some icing, drizzle it on after reheating for that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Instant yeast works just as well and can be added directly to the flour. Just watch your dough, as it may rise a bit faster—so keep an eye to avoid over-proofing your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls.
My bananas aren’t super ripe. Can I still use them?
For the deepest banana flavor, overripe bananas are best. If yours are still yellow, you can roast them in their skins in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes to bring out that sweetness in a pinch.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough through the first rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, shape, fill, and let the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls do their final rise before baking. This way, you get fresh rolls in the morning with minimal effort.
Are the walnuts necessary?
Not at all! The walnuts bring a lovely crunch and classic banana bread touch, but you can leave them out or swap for pecans, chocolate chips, or even skip nuts entirely—it’s totally up to your taste.
Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
With a few swaps—like plant-based milk, vegan butter, egg replacer, and dairy-free cream cheese—you can absolutely craft a vegan-friendly spin on Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. The flavor and texture will still be deliciously satisfying!
Final Thoughts
If you love both cinnamon rolls and banana bread, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls simply have to be on your baking bucket list. Every swirl is tender, fragrant, and brimming with homey flavor—perfect for any morning in need of a little extra magic. Give them a try and they just might become your signature brunch treat!
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Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of classic banana bread flavors and the irresistible allure of cinnamon rolls with these scrumptious Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced, these rolls are a must-try for any brunch or sweet treat occasion.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mashed banana (about 2–3 medium bananas)
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Icing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix warm milk with yeast and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, eggs, salt, and mashed banana to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add flour, stirring until the dough comes together. Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- In a bowl, combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface into a 20×14-inch rectangle. Spread the filling over the dough and sprinkle with walnuts, if using.
- Roll up tightly from the long side. Cut into 12 rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
- Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over warm rolls.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, Cinnamon Roll Recipe, Brunch Recipe, Sweet Treat, Baking, Breakfast Pastry
