There’s nothing quite like the combination of banana bread and cinnamon rolls—two classic comfort foods coming together for the ultimate treat. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are irresistibly soft, filled with a fragrant cinnamon-sugar swirl, and topped with a silky vanilla glaze that melts into every bite. The natural sweetness of bananas keeps the rolls extra moist while enhancing their deep, rich flavor.
Perfect for weekend brunch, family breakfasts, or simply indulging in a sweet moment of comfort, these rolls are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether served warm with a drizzle of icing or paired with a hot cup of coffee, these cinnamon rolls are sure to bring warmth and happiness to your table.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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For the Dough:
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1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)
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1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
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2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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For the Filling:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
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1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
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For the Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Directions:
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Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Add in the yeast mixture and stir to combine.
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Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, kneading until the dough is smooth and slightly tacky (about 5-7 minutes). Cover and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
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Roll and Fill: Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface and evenly sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
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Shape the Rolls: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Cut into 12 even rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cover and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
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Prepare the Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 rolls
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls – The Best of Two Classics
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate fusion of two beloved baked goods: the soft, comforting taste of banana bread and the gooey, cinnamon-swirled delight of classic cinnamon rolls. This recipe brings together the rich, natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgent warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar, all wrapped up in a pillowy dough. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack with coffee. Whether you’re a fan of traditional cinnamon rolls or love the deep flavors of banana bread, this recipe offers the best of both worlds.
What Makes These Cinnamon Rolls Special?
Unlike standard cinnamon rolls that rely on butter and sugar for flavor, these rolls incorporate mashed bananas directly into the dough, making them extra moist and naturally sweet. The bananas not only add flavor but also contribute to a softer texture, ensuring that every bite melts in your mouth. The cinnamon-sugar filling provides the signature swirl that makes cinnamon rolls irresistible, while the vanilla glaze drizzled on top adds the perfect finishing touch.
A Healthier Twist on a Classic Treat
Bananas are a great addition to baked goods because they add natural sweetness while reducing the need for excessive sugar. They also provide essential nutrients like potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, making these cinnamon rolls a slightly healthier alternative to traditional versions. While they still have their fair share of indulgence, the use of bananas adds a wholesome element to the recipe.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are versatile and can be served for various occasions. They make an excellent weekend breakfast, a special brunch treat, or even a holiday morning staple. Because they can be prepared ahead of time, they are ideal for gatherings where you want to serve something fresh from the oven without spending hours in the kitchen.
For those who love meal prepping, you can even freeze the rolls before baking and have them ready whenever a cinnamon roll craving strikes. Simply thaw and bake when needed for fresh, homemade treats in no time.
How to Customize Your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your personal preferences. Here are some ideas for customization:
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Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled over the filling for added crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft dough.
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Use Different Glazes: While the classic vanilla glaze works perfectly, you can experiment with cream cheese frosting, caramel drizzle, or even a honey glaze for a different flavor.
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Include Chocolate Chips: If you love chocolate and bananas together, adding mini chocolate chips to the filling can take these rolls to the next level.
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Make Them Vegan: Swap out dairy milk for almond or oat milk, replace the butter with coconut oil, and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg to create a vegan-friendly version of this recipe.
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Try Whole Wheat Flour: If you’re looking for a slightly healthier alternative, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
Tips for Making the Best Cinnamon Rolls
To ensure your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
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Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your dough will be. Overripe bananas with brown spots work best.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: Kneading is important, but over-kneading can make the rolls dense instead of soft and fluffy. Knead just until the dough comes together and is smooth.
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Let the Dough Rise Fully: Allowing the dough to rise properly is essential for achieving a light and airy texture. If your kitchen is cold, place the dough in a warm area to help it rise faster.
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Roll the Dough Evenly: When rolling out the dough, try to maintain an even thickness so the rolls bake uniformly.
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Use Room Temperature Butter for the Filling: Softened butter spreads more easily and helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick better to the dough.
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Don’t Overbake: Cinnamon rolls should be golden brown on the outside but still soft in the center. Overbaking can make them dry, so keep an eye on them during the final minutes of baking.
Storing and Reheating
These rolls taste best when eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers for later. Here’s how to keep them soft and delicious:
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to two days.
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Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.
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Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the rolls. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw and warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
While these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are fantastic on their own, they can be paired with other foods and drinks to make a complete meal:
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With Coffee or Tea: The warm flavors of cinnamon and banana go perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea.
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As a Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
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With Fresh Fruit: Pair with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
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Alongside Scrambled Eggs and Bacon: If you’re serving these for breakfast, balance the sweetness with savory sides like eggs and crispy bacon.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys homemade baked goods. It combines the comforting, nostalgic flavors of banana bread with the sweet, gooey indulgence of cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just want a cozy weekend treat, these rolls are guaranteed to impress.
Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they’re also easy to make and require simple, everyday ingredients. The natural sweetness from the bananas means you don’t need excessive sugar, and the process of making them is both fun and rewarding.
Conclusion
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, offering a moist, flavorful dough with a hint of banana and a classic cinnamon-sugar swirl. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results.
From their soft and fluffy texture to their rich and gooey filling, these cinnamon rolls are pure comfort in every bite. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, and they can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. If you love the flavors of banana bread and cinnamon rolls, this recipe is a must-try.
Make a batch today and enjoy the warm, sweet aroma of homemade Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls filling your kitchen. Once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a favorite among cinnamon roll lovers everywhere!