Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Imagine your favorite banana bread and classic cinnamon rolls getting together for the most delicious brunch mashup—these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are fluffy, bakery-perfect, and delightfully swirled with sweet cinnamon and brown sugar. Ripe bananas work double duty, infusing the dough with both incredible moisture and a subtle fruitiness, while a silky vanilla glaze ties everything together. They’re comforting, nostalgic, and sure to become everyone’s new favorite treat for lazy weekends, cozy holidays, or any morning that needs a little extra joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls happens with a handful of pantry staples and a few key extras. Each ingredient has its unique part to play—some bring in flavor, others provide that pillowy softness you crave, and a few add color, sweetness, and nostalgia. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you get started:
- Mashed ripe bananas: Overripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making the dough tender and extra flavorful.
- Granulated sugar: Just the right amount to sweeten the dough without overpowering the banana flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Melted into the dough and softened for the filling, butter ensures a rich, soft crumb and irresistible flavor.
- Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds a subtle richness—use dairy or your favorite unsweetened milk alternative.
- Active dry yeast: The heart of any great roll, yeast helps the dough rise into fluffy perfection.
- Salt: Enhances every flavor, so don’t skip it!
- All-purpose flour: The solid base that brings everything together—scoop and level for best results.
- Brown sugar: Deep, molasses-y flavor in the filling makes each swirl gooey and indulgent.
- Ground cinnamon: The warm spice that defines these rolls; don’t be shy!
- Powdered sugar: Whisks up into a dreamy glaze you’ll want to lick from the spoon.
- Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic sweetness to the glaze for a finishing touch that elevates every bite.
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls by combining warm milk and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes. Look for a layer of foam—it means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. This stage is crucial for those famously fluffy buns, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Mix the Banana Dough
Once the yeast is nice and bubbly, stir in the mashed bananas, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough comes together. The bananas add natural sweetness and keep the dough incredibly moist, which echoes the best parts of banana bread in every bite.
Step 3: Knead Until Smooth
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for a dough that’s elastic and just a bit tacky but not sticking to your hands. Take this time to enjoy the aroma of fresh banana—in just a little while, your kitchen will smell even better!
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer your dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot. Give it about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This is the key to light, airy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls—so find your coziest kitchen corner and let that yeast do its thing.
Step 5: Make the Filling
While the dough rises, combine brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This duo will soon melt inside the rolls for that signature swirl. Have your softened butter ready too—spreading it over the dough guarantees gooey goodness in every bite.
Step 6: Roll, Fill, and Shape
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 10×14 inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly to the edges, then shower the cinnamon-sugar mixture all over. Starting from the long side, roll the dough up tightly, then slice into 12 even rounds for perfectly portioned Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 7: Second Rise
Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cover, and let them rise for another 30 minutes. You’ll see them puff up again—this second rise is what gives that tender, pull-apart texture everyone adores.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and your kitchen smells like heaven. Watch closely near the end—they’re best when just set, soft, and golden. Let them cool slightly while you prepare the sweet vanilla glaze.
Step 9: Glaze and Serve
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle generously over warm rolls—the glaze will seep into the swirls, making every bite a little dreamy. Serve immediately for the best, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
For a polished finish, sprinkle your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans, a light dusting of cinnamon, or even a few banana slices. The nuts add crunch and a hint of savoriness, while extra cinnamon or banana highlights the flavors already baked inside.
Side Dishes
Pair these decadent rolls with a fresh fruit salad, softly scrambled eggs, or a creamy Greek yogurt parfait. The contrast balances the sweetness and turns your kitchen into a full-on breakfast bistro. Don’t forget a hot cup of coffee or a frothy latte for the perfect bite-and-sip combo!
Creative Ways to Present
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are seriously photogenic! Try serving them on a pretty cake stand for brunch spreads, packed in a basket for a picnic breakfast, or even skewered on sticks for a grab-and-go treat. For family gatherings, let everyone drizzle their own glaze and top with their choice of nuts or chocolate chips—interactive and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you actually have leftovers, transfer cooled Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls to an airtight container. They stay soft and flavorful at room temperature for a day, or refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep them at peak freshness.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Freeze unglazed rolls individually or the entire batch, well-wrapped in plastic and foil. Just thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and glaze before serving for that just-baked vibe every time.
Reheating
To bring leftover rolls back to life, microwave for about 20 seconds per roll, or warm the whole tray in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. A quick drizzle of extra glaze right after reheating makes them taste like day one all over again.
FAQs
Can I make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, cover the pan tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the rolls come to room temperature while your oven preheats, then bake as usual for a fresh-out-of-the-oven breakfast treat.
How ripe should my bananas be?
The riper, the better—think lots of brown spots! Overripe bananas make your dough more flavorful and ensure super moist Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. If your bananas aren’t quite ready, try microwaving them until soft and sweet.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Fold in a handful of chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips with the cinnamon-sugar filling to add extra texture and fun flavor twists. Both options play beautifully with the banana and cinnamon.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
They’re ready when beautifully golden on top and the center rolls are set but still soft. If you’re unsure, gently tap the center with your finger; it should spring back lightly, and you’ll notice the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen!
Is it possible to make these vegan?
Yes! Swap the butter for your favorite plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk. The rolls will still have that dreamy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls texture and taste—no one will guess the difference.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about gathering friends and family for a batch of fresh, warm Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. If you’re craving comfort, nostalgia, and bakery-level flavor in one pan, give this recipe a go—you’re in for an instant favorite!
Print
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including rise time)
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of banana bread and cinnamon rolls with this scrumptious recipe. Soft, fluffy rolls filled with a sweet cinnamon swirl, topped with a vanilla glaze, perfect for a cozy breakfast treat or anytime snack.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit until foamy. Stir in mashed bananas, melted butter, and salt. Gradually mix in flour to form a dough. Knead on a floured surface until smooth.
- Rise the dough: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Assemble the rolls: Roll out the dough, spread with butter, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture, roll up, and slice into rolls. Place in a baking dish.
- Bake: Let the rolls rise again, then bake until golden brown.
- Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls.
Notes
- Best served warm.
- Prepare ahead by refrigerating overnight and baking in the morning.
- Customize with nuts or chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
