Combining the moist, comforting goodness of banana bread with the soft, sticky swirls of cinnamon rolls results in one of the most satisfying breakfast or brunch treats you’ll ever bake—Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. These rolls feature a banana-infused dough, a warm cinnamon-sugar filling, and a decadent glaze on top. If you’re looking to elevate your cinnamon roll game, this hybrid recipe is the perfect place to start.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Banana Boost – Adds natural moisture and flavor without extra fat.
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Soft and Fluffy – The dough turns out light and pillowy with just the right chew.
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Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas – A fun twist when you’re tired of classic banana bread.
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Comfort Food Fusion – Merges two comfort food favorites into one show-stopping dish.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need to make these soft, flavorful rolls from scratch:
For the Dough:
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1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
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1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 tsp salt
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1 large egg
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1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
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4 to 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Filling:
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3/4 cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
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1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup butter, softened
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1–2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
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Rise Time: 1.5 hours
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Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes
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Servings: 12 rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Make the Banana Dough
Add the melted butter, mashed bananas, egg, and salt. Mix until combined. Slowly incorporate the flour, 1 cup at a time, until a dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside the softened butter, which will be spread directly onto the rolled dough.
5. Roll Out the Dough
Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle approximately 10×16 inches in size.
6. Fill the Dough
Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, pressing lightly into the surface.
7. Roll and Slice
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to slice into 12 even pieces.
8. Second Rise
Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover and let them rise for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy and nearly doubled.
9. Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and baked through in the center.
10. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until the frosting is soft and spreadable.
11. Frost and Serve
Once the rolls have cooled slightly, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the tops. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Use Overripe Bananas
The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your dough will be. Brown-speckled bananas are ideal.
Don’t Over-Flour the Dough
Too much flour can make the rolls dense. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but manageable.
Make the Night Before
Prepare and shape the rolls, then refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise before baking in the morning.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Add Nuts
Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the filling for extra crunch and classic banana bread vibes.
Use Maple Glaze Instead
Swap out the cream cheese frosting for a simple maple glaze by combining 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tbsp maple syrup and 1 tbsp milk.
Make It Vegan
Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) to replace the egg.
Storing and Reheating
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration
Store for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving.
Freezing
Wrap baked rolls tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before eating.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with hot coffee or a banana smoothie for a breakfast treat.
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Garnish with extra banana slices or chopped nuts for presentation.
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These rolls also make a fantastic brunch centerpiece.
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls vs. Classic Cinnamon Rolls
Flavor
The banana adds depth and natural sweetness to the dough.
Texture
Slightly denser than classic rolls, but still soft and fluffy.
Moisture
Bananas help retain moisture, keeping these rolls fresh longer.
Nutritional Overview (Approximate per Roll)
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Calories: 340
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Fat: 13g
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Carbohydrates: 52g
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Sugar: 24g
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Protein: 5g (Values may vary based on exact ingredients used)
FAQs
Can I use banana bread batter instead of dough?
No. Banana bread batter is too loose and won’t roll or hold shape. This recipe uses banana in a yeast-based dough for structure.
What if my bananas aren’t ripe enough?
You can ripen bananas quickly by baking them at 300°F for 15 minutes or microwaving for 30–60 seconds with the peel on.
Can I use instant yeast?
Yes. Skip the proofing step and mix the yeast directly with the dry ingredients, then add warm milk.
Why are my rolls dense?
Too much flour or not enough kneading could result in dense rolls. Also, make sure your yeast is fresh and properly activated.
Conclusion
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the best of both worlds—sweet, moist banana flavor and the irresistible swirl of cinnamon sugar. They are the kind of breakfast or brunch recipe that feels special yet cozy, familiar but fresh. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
Next time your bananas go brown, skip the loaf and roll with this banana-packed treat. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe belongs in your regular baking rotation.