If you’re ready to take your favorite breakfast treat to a swoon-worthy new level, Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are about to change your mornings forever! Imagine the pillowy softness of classic cinnamon rolls infused with the melt-in-your-mouth flavor of homemade banana bread, sweet cinnamon sugar spirals, and an irresistible cream cheese icing to bring it all together. These rolls are as nostalgic as they are indulgent, perfect for brunch gatherings, dessert, or just satisfying that cozy homemade craving any day of the week. You won’t believe how easy and rewarding baking Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls can be!
Ingredients You’ll Need
A few basic kitchen staples and some ripe bananas are all that stand between you and the magic of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Every ingredient is chosen for maximum flavor and the best, softest texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters:
- Active dry yeast: The secret to lofty, tender rolls that rise beautifully in the oven.
- Warm milk (110°F): Helps activate the yeast for that billowy dough foundation.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and aids yeast growth for a light, golden crumb.
- Melted butter: Adds rich moisture and unforgettable flavor to every bite.
- Mashed ripe banana: Gives these rolls their signature banana bread flavor and extra softness.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients and gives a lovely, tender structure.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the pillowy base of the dough—just enough to keep rolls light yet sturdy.
- Salt: Essential to deepen flavors and balance out the sweetness.
- Brown sugar (filling): Melts into gooey, caramel-like ribbons inside every roll.
- Cinnamon (filling): The warm spice that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible.
- Softened butter (filling): Binds the cinnamon-sugar swirl beautifully and keeps the interior moist.
- Cream cheese (icing): Brings a classic tang and creamy finish that pairs perfectly with the sweet rolls.
- Powdered sugar (icing): Creates a smooth, velvety icing drizzle.
- Vanilla extract (icing): Just a splash deepens sweetness and rounds out the icing flavor.
- Milk (icing): Loosens the icing to that dreamy, spreadable consistency.
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Gently stir together the warm milk and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let this mixture rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly, foamy surface—this is the yeast waking up and getting ready to work its magic! If your yeast doesn’t foam, your water might be too hot or cold, or your yeast is expired, so give it the right conditions and try again if needed.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a larger bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, mashed banana, egg, and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and give everything a good stir. Gradually add the flour—don’t dump it all in at once—to avoid a sticky mess. Mix with a sturdy spoon or dough hook until you have a shaggy, soft dough that just pulls away from the bowl.
Step 3: Knead and First Rise
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and stretchy—this step creates those signature fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls layers. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until doubled in size. Grab a cup of coffee—the smell will already have your kitchen feeling cozy!
Step 4: Roll Out and Fill
Punch down the dough to release any air, then roll it out into a rectangle roughly 9×13 inches—it doesn’t need to be perfect. Spread the softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon over the buttered dough, covering every corner for maximum gooeyness. This classic swirl is the heart and soul of any great Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls recipe!
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Carefully roll up the dough from the long edge, making it as tight as you can for beautiful layers. Slice into 9 to 12 even pieces—thinner slices mean more rolls for sharing! Place them in a greased baking dish with a little space to expand. Cover again and let them rise 30 minutes, until they’ve puffed up and filled the dish with promise.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until golden-brown and fragrant. As they bake, your whole home will fill with the swoon-worthy aroma of sweet bananas and cinnamon. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden and the centers are set.
Step 7: Glaze with Cream Cheese Icing
Meanwhile, whip together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and just enough milk for a thick, silky icing. Spread generously over the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls immediately after they come out of the oven, so the icing melts into every swirl and crevice. The cream cheese glaze is the finishing touch that makes these utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
For extra flair, top your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch, a pinch of cinnamon for added warmth, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce if you’re feeling fancy. These little extras make each roll look bakery-worthy and taste even more special.
Side Dishes
These cinnamon rolls are 100 percent the star of any breakfast or brunch spread. Partner them with fresh berries, a bowl of Greek yogurt, or crispy bacon for balance. If you love pairing sweet with savory, try them alongside scrambled eggs or a hearty veggie omelet. The soft, sweet Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls contrast beautifully with anything fresh or salty.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the box! For a brunch party, stack rolls on a pretty cake stand and dust with powdered sugar. For special occasions, serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls in individual ramekins for a personal touch. Or, make mini versions for bite-size treats that are perfect for buffets, brunch boards, or sharing at potlucks!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll stay soft, and the flavors will deepen even more overnight. For longer storage, pop the container in the fridge for up to 4 days—the cream cheese icing keeps beautifully.
Freezing
To freeze, let the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Store icing separately if possible. They’ll taste fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and frost for that just-baked feel.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is to place a roll or two on a plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. If you’re reheating a larger batch, cover the dish with foil and warm them gently in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. They’ll taste almost exactly like the day they were baked!
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! If you use instant yeast, there’s no need to activate it in milk first; just add it directly to the flour. Your rise times may be a touch shorter, but the results are still soft and fluffy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls.
What’s the best way to mash ripe bananas for this recipe?
Very ripe bananas work best—you can mash them with a fork until smooth or use a potato masher for a uniform texture. If there are a few small lumps, that’s totally fine and even adds some lovely pockets of banana flavor.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
You sure can! Simply double all ingredients and divide the dough between two baking dishes. Just make sure your oven has enough space for even baking. Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are always a crowd-pleaser.
Do I have to use cream cheese icing?
Cream cheese icing is classic, but if you prefer, you can substitute with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or even a vanilla buttercream. Each adds its own twist, but nothing beats that tangy cream cheese finishing touch.
Why aren’t my rolls fluffy?
If your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls turned out a bit dense, it could be due to under-proofing (not letting the dough rise enough), old yeast, or using too much flour. Always use fresh yeast, check your rise times, and add flour gradually just until a soft dough forms.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of cozy comfort baking, you absolutely must try these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls! Every bite delivers a swirl of banana-rich flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and sweet, creamy icing. They’re a delicious way to wow your loved ones or simply treat yourself—don’t wait for a special occasion, just bake and enjoy the magic!
Print
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls, infused with the sweet, comforting flavors of banana bread. Soft, fluffy rolls filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and topped with a creamy icing, they make a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 mashed ripe banana
- 1 egg
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 cup softened butter
For the icing:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit until foamy. Mix sugar, melted butter, mashed banana, egg, and salt. Add yeast mixture and flour. Knead until smooth. Let rise.
- Roll and Fill: Roll out dough, spread with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Roll up and cut into rolls. Place in a baking dish and let rise.
- Bake: Preheat oven. Bake rolls until golden brown.
- Make the Icing: Mix cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Spread over warm rolls.
Notes
- For extra banana flavor, add a second mashed banana and slightly reduce the milk.
- Best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
