As the afternoon sun filters through my kitchen window, I find myself with an excess of overripe bananas, their sweet fragrance luring me in like a warm hug. That’s when the idea strikes: why not combine the irresistible charm of cinnamon rolls with the comforting softness of banana bread? Introducing my Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls—a delightful twist on two beloved classics that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
This easy recipe transforms those neglected bananas into a heavenly treat, perfect for brunch or a satisfying dessert. With a dreamy gooey cinnamon swirl and a glossy cream cheese glaze cascading over the top, each roll invites you to savor the moment. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for something new, these moist, fluffy rolls are not just a feast for the senses; they are also a customizable, budget-friendly option that even your pickiest eaters will adore. It’s time to embrace the sweet symphony of banana and cinnamon in one exquisite bite!
Why love Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?
Unforgettable combination: These rolls marry the rich, sweet taste of banana bread with the irresistible gooeyness of cinnamon rolls.
Quick & easy: In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swirls of caramel for a personalized twist!
Budget-friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, it’s a great way to utilize overripe bananas.
Crowd-pleaser: From brunch gatherings to family dessert, everyone will love the warmth and comfort in each bite.
For more delightful banana recipes, check out our other banana-infused desserts that are just as scrumptious!
Ingredients for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
For the Dough
• Mashed Bananas – Adds moisture and flavor; use ripe bananas for the best results.
• Flour – Provides structure; you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed.
• Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling; honey can work as a substitute, though it changes the texture.
• Butter – Enriches the dough for tenderness; for a vegan option, substitute with dairy-free butter.
For the Filling
• Cinnamon – Provides the warm, signature spice flavor; absolutely essential for the cinnamon roll experience.
• Brown Sugar – Adds a delectable caramel-like sweetness; white sugar can replace it, but it alters the flavor.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
• Cream Cheese Glaze – Offers a creamy, tangy topping that perfectly complements the rolls; substitute with a simple powdered sugar glaze if necessary.
Embrace the deliciousness of these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls and let their rich flavors bring joy to your kitchen!
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure your rolls won’t stick. This foundational step sets the stage for golden-brown, fluffy rolls!
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Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, and flour. Use a fork or spatula to blend until a soft, sticky dough forms—this will take about 2-3 minutes.
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Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, carefully roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. This thickness will give your rolls the perfect rise and softness once baked.
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Spread melted butter: Generously brush melted butter across the rolled-out dough, ensuring the entire surface is covered. This creates a rich and flavorful base for your cinnamon filling.
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Sprinkle with goodness: Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture over the melted butter. Make sure to cover every inch—this is where the gooiness comes from!
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Roll tightly: Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log shape. The tighter the roll, the better the swirl of cinnamon goodness; then, cut the log into 9–12 equal slices.
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Place the rolls: Arrange the sliced rolls in your prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each one to allow for rising. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until they are puffed up and golden brown.
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Prepare the glaze: While the rolls are baking, whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy. This glaze is the finishing touch your rolls deserve!
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Drizzle the glaze: Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top. Serve warm, and enjoy each delightful bite!
Optional: Garnish with additional cinnamon or toasted nuts for an extra special touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
• Perfectly Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are fully ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture; look for brown spots for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining your dough ingredients, mix just until they come together—overmixing can lead to dense rolls.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so start checking the rolls at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking, which can dry them out.
• Roll Tightly: For beautiful swirls, make sure to roll your dough tightly. This helps keep the cinnamon filling inside while baking.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• Glaze Alternatives: If you run out of cream cheese, a simple powdered sugar glaze works well too—just whisk powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth!
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough and roll it up tightly up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the log in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, slice the chilled rolls and place them in a greased baking dish. Allow them to rise for about 30 minutes before baking, ensuring they’re just as fluffy and delicious! Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked rolls; just cut them and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container. When the craving strikes, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. These make-ahead options not only save time on busy mornings but also maintain the rolls’ delightful texture and flavor!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?
Embrace the irresistible warmth of freshly baked rolls by creating a delightful spread that enhances your indulgent treat.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls beautifully.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs create a heartier breakfast, adding protein to your meal while complementing the warm flavors of the rolls.
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Coffee or Tea: Pairing with a steaming cup of coffee or your favorite tea elevates the experience, enhancing the cozy vibes and flavors of banana and cinnamon.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and fruit adds a tangy touch, making every bite a creamy and crunchy delight. Perfect for brunch!
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Cinnamon Butter: Spread this sweet, spiced butter over your warm rolls for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a homey touch that’s simply irresistible!
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzling some pure maple syrup on top can enhance the sweetness and provide a comforting, sticky goodness that pairs exceptionally well.
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Ice Cream Scoop: For a decadent dessert treat, serve warm rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the creamy bliss to melt right into the cinnamon swirls for maximum indulgence.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer longer storage, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Gently reheat before serving.
Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze unglazed rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Heat thawed rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, then drizzle with cream cheese glaze for delightful warmth!
Variations & Substitutions for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Feel free to explore the exciting possibilities of these delightful rolls!
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Add Nuts: Include walnuts or pecans in the filling for a crunchy texture that complements the soft dough beautifully. The nutty flavor will elevate each bite!
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Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond milk for a deliciously plant-based treat. Enjoy the same rich flavors without dairy!
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Spice It Up: Swap cinnamon for chai spice blend to introduce an aromatic warmth that dances on your palate, perfect for cozy mornings. This berry twist adds a lovely complexity!
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Sweetener Switch: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique flavor twist that’s equally sweet and adds a hint of earthiness. The syrup moistens the dough while incorporating delightful notes.
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Fruit Add-Ins: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped dates with the banana mixture for a burst of fruity flavor and chewy texture. This will surprise and delight everyone!
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Caramel Drizzle: Replace the cream cheese glaze with a warm caramel sauce for an indulgent treat that satisfies your sweet tooth. Drizzling over warm rolls takes them to another level!
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Pumpkin Spice: In place of cinnamon, introduce pumpkin spice to harness the flavors of fall—perfect for seasonal gatherings. The fragrant blend will fill your kitchen with warmth!
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
Why are ripe bananas important in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ripe bananas are key to achieving the perfect flavor and moisture in your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots on the peel, as this indicates maximum natural sweetness and moisture content.
How should I store leftover rolls?
For best results, keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just remember to gently reheat them before enjoying!
Can I freeze Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! To freeze the rolls, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before drizzling with glaze.
What if my rolls come out dry?
Don’t worry! If your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are dry, it may be due to overbaking. To remedy this next time, keep an eye on them and start checking at the 25-minute mark. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate—using an oven thermometer can help with that!
Are there any dietary considerations for these rolls?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian and can be easily modified for vegan diets by substituting with dairy-free butter and using a non-dairy milk for the glaze. Always double-check for allergies, especially to gluten or dairy, depending on your substitutions.
Can I add extras to the filling?
Very! You can absolutely customize your rolls by adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even caramel swirls inside. Feel free to experiment with flavors that you particularly enjoy for a personalized treat!
Soft Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls with Creamy Glaze Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, butter, and flour until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
- Brush melted butter across the rolled-out dough.
- Evenly sprinkle the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture over the melted butter.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 9–12 slices.
- Arrange the sliced rolls in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth while the rolls bake.
- Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the baked rolls and serve warm.