If you adore the cozy flavors of banana bread and the gooey, spiced swirls of a classic cinnamon roll, you’re about to meet your new obsession: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Imagine pillowy-soft dough infused with ripe bananas, filled with brown sugar and cinnamon, and finished with a dreamy swipe of cream cheese icing. This recipe delivers the best of both worlds in every warm, fragrant bite, making it a treat that’s sure to wow your breakfast crowd or satisfy your sweet tooth at any hour.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls come together with everyday ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building unbeatable flavor and texture. Take a peek below to see how every item brings something special to the table.

Mashed ripe bananas: The secret star, adding natural sweetness, moisture, and that unmistakable banana bread flavor.
Warm milk: Activates the yeast and ensures a tender, fluffy dough.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and contributes to the dough’s subtle sweetness.
Active dry yeast: The leavening powerhouse that gives these rolls their signature rise.
Unsalted butter (melted & softened): Adds richness and helps deliver a soft, luscious crumb and filling.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out all the flavors with its deep, warm aroma.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances every bite.
All-purpose flour: The foundation for structure and chew—add just enough for a supple, workable dough.
Brown sugar: Brings a caramel-like depth to the cinnamon swirl.
Ground cinnamon: The classic spice that delivers a warm, comforting kick.
Cream cheese: Provides tangy richness in the irresistible icing.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese icing to just the right consistency.
Milk (for icing): Loosens the icing so it drapes luxuriously over the rolls.

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by whisking together the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let this mixture rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top—this means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add the mashed bananas, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine, then gradually add the flour. Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. You can knead by hand on a floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer your dough to a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, until it has doubled in size. This is when your kitchen will start to smell absolutely heavenly!

Step 4: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. In a separate dish, make sure your butter is softened and ready to spread. This sweet, spiced mixture is the heart of every Banana Bread Cinnamon Roll.

Step 5: Shape the Rolls

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 16 by 12 inches. Spread the softened butter all over, then sprinkle generously with your cinnamon-sugar mixture. Roll up tightly from the long side, then slice into 12 even pieces.

Step 6: Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spacing them evenly. Cover and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, until puffy and touching. This second rise gives your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls their signature loft and tenderness.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22 to 28 minutes, until they’re golden brown and the aroma is absolutely irresistible. Try to let them cool just enough before icing—if you can resist!

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

While the rolls are cooling slightly, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until you have a thick but spreadable icing. Slather it generously over the warm rolls and watch it melt into every crevice.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, try a generous sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans over the cream cheese icing. A light dusting of cinnamon or even a few banana slices can add extra flair and hint at the deliciousness inside.

Side Dishes

Balance the sweetness of your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with something fresh and simple, like a bowl of mixed berries or a crisp fruit salad. If you’re serving brunch, strong coffee or a creamy chai latte are perfect companions for these warm, comforting rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

For a showstopping brunch spread, arrange the rolls on a pretty cake stand and drizzle extra icing just before serving. You can also serve them individually in parchment wrappers, or stack minis in a rustic bread basket for a casual, family-style vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls left (which is a big “if”), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The rolls will stay soft and delicious, especially if you keep them well-covered.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the rolls (either frosted or unfrosted) individually wrapped, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the microwave when you’re ready to indulge.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked magic, warm your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. If you’ve frozen them, let them thaw before reheating for best texture.

FAQs

Can I make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep the rolls right up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise until puffy, then bake as usual for a fresh and effortless treat.

What’s the best way to mash bananas for the dough?

Use a fork or potato masher to mash ripe bananas until smooth, with just a few small lumps for texture. Overripe bananas (the spottier, the better) will give you the sweetest flavor and softest dough.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the filling?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips can add a lovely crunch or melty surprise to every Banana Bread Cinnamon Roll. Just scatter your add-ins over the cinnamon-sugar layer before rolling up the dough.

Do I have to use cream cheese icing?

Cream cheese icing is classic, but you can swap it for a simple vanilla glaze or even a dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer a lighter touch. The rolls are so flavorful, they’ll be delicious with or without it.

Why did my rolls turn out dry?

The most common culprit is adding too much flour or baking for too long. Measure your flour carefully and check for doneness at the minimum bake time. Covering the rolls while they cool can also help lock in moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine two beloved classics into one unforgettable treat. Whether you’re making them for a holiday brunch or just because, I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of pulling apart those soft, gooey spirals. Give this recipe a try—you’re in for a warm, sweet, and utterly delightful adventure!

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

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4.7 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Deliciously soft and fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls featuring a sweet banana-infused dough rolled with cinnamon sugar, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a creamy cream cheese icing. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these rolls combine the flavors of classic banana bread and cinnamon rolls for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)
¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon salt
3¾ to 4 cups all-purpose flour

Filling

½ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)

Cream Cheese Icing

4 oz cream cheese (softened)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, signaling the yeast is active and ready.
Mix Dough Ingredients: Add mashed bananas, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir in the flour gradually until a soft dough forms, adjusting flour amount as needed for the right consistency.
Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours until it doubles in size.
Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
Shape Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log. Slice the log into 12 even rolls.
Second Rise: Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 22–28 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Prepare Icing: While rolls are baking, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
Finish and Serve: Spread the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use extra ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
Prepare the rolls the night before by refrigerating them after the second rise, then bake fresh in the morning.
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra crunch and texture.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American