The irresistible fusion of banana bread and classic cinnamon rolls makes this dish a showstopper for any brunch or cozy breakfast moment. Imagine the rich sweetness of ripe bananas swirled into soft, pillowy dough, layered with a warm cinnamon-sugar blend.
These rolls are the perfect solution when you can’t decide between banana bread and a cinnamon roll. Topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze, every bite melts in your mouth with that comforting mix of banana and spice. Ideal for lazy weekend mornings, holiday gatherings, or a sweet gift for someone you love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
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3/4 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
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2 1/4 teaspoons 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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2 large eggs
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 mashed ripe banana
For the Filling:
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1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, mashed banana, and salt. Mix until combined.
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Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
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Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle evenly with the brown sugar and cinnamon.
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Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
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Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
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While rolls bake, prepare glaze by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Add milk to reach desired consistency.
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Drizzle warm rolls with cream cheese glaze before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 rolls
The Ultimate Comfort Treat: Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Few things say “comfort” like the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. Now imagine combining that with the nostalgic flavor of homemade banana bread moist, sweet, and full of that distinctive banana essence. That fusion is exactly what makes Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls a standout dish. These soft, fluffy, and gooey rolls are a delightful twist on two breakfast favorites, wrapped into one irresistible recipe.
Banana bread is beloved for its moist texture, comforting flavor, and versatility. On the other hand, cinnamon rolls are a bakery classic, oozing with cinnamon-sugar filling and finished with a luscious glaze. Together, they form a hybrid recipe that’s not only delicious but incredibly satisfying perfect for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts, or any occasion that calls for a special treat.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes these rolls so special, how to serve and store them, their appeal across different audiences, customization ideas, and more.
Why Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Are So Popular
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a tasty twist on tradition they offer a blend of flavor and texture that’s both unique and universally appealing. The banana in the dough adds natural moisture, subtle sweetness, and an irresistible aroma. It’s an ingenious way to use up overripe bananas while elevating a classic pastry to new heights.
This recipe is the perfect example of fusion baking done right. It brings together the familiarity of banana bread with the indulgence of cinnamon rolls, resulting in a treat that feels both cozy and elevated. It’s also family-friendly, kid-approved, and surprisingly simple to make.
Even better? These rolls look impressive on the table. When you serve a tray of warm, swirled banana rolls dripping with cream cheese glaze, you’re not just offering food you’re creating an experience.
A Brunch Game-Changer
Whether you’re planning a Mother’s Day brunch, a cozy Christmas morning breakfast, or a weekend gathering with friends, these banana bread cinnamon rolls deserve a spot on your table.
Their flavor profile pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a mimosa. The warm cinnamon and brown sugar interior creates that signature roll flavor, but the banana in the dough adds an extra layer of richness and aroma. The cream cheese glaze on top brings it all together with a smooth and tangy finish.
For brunch menus, these rolls complement both sweet and savory items. Pair them with eggs, fruit, or crispy bacon for a balanced spread. Their soft texture and inviting smell also make them a hit with guests of all ages.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it. Want to add some crunch? Try incorporating chopped walnuts or pecans into the cinnamon-sugar filling. Prefer a bit more spice? Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the mix.
For a festive twist, consider topping the glaze with crushed toffee, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this breakfast item into a dessert.
You can also experiment with the glaze. While cream cheese is the traditional go-to for cinnamon rolls, a banana-flavored icing or maple glaze could give the rolls a completely different, but equally delicious, flavor profile.
The Perfect Way to Use Ripe Bananas
If you’re like most home bakers, you probably have a few bananas on the counter that ripened faster than expected. While banana bread is often the first solution, this recipe provides a new and exciting way to make use of them.
The mashed banana is added directly into the dough, which adds not only flavor but also moisture. This results in rolls that stay soft and tender even a day or two after baking. It’s a creative and satisfying way to reduce food waste while treating yourself to something special.
Baking Tips and Tricks
To get the perfect texture and rise, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment, and don’t rush the process giving the dough ample time to develop will ensure the soft, pillowy texture these rolls are known for.
When rolling and cutting the dough, use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for clean, even cuts. This will help the rolls maintain their beautiful spiral shape and prevent the filling from spilling out.
For a more intense banana flavor, consider roasting your bananas in the oven for a few minutes before mashing them into the dough. This caramelizes the sugars and adds depth to the taste.
Storage and Make Ahead Tips
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls store beautifully. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five. You can also freeze baked and unfrosted rolls for longer storage just reheat and glaze them when ready to serve.
Want to make them ahead of time? Simply prepare and assemble the rolls, then cover and refrigerate overnight before the final rise. In the morning, take them out, allow them to come to room temperature, and let them rise for about 30–45 minutes before baking. This method is perfect for early-morning events or holiday breakfasts where you want to minimize work the day of.
Great for All Skill Levels
Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this recipe is very approachable. The dough is forgiving, and the process is broken into manageable steps. If you’re familiar with baking yeast breads, you’ll find this to be a fun and rewarding variation. And if you’re new to cinnamon rolls, this is a fantastic place to start.
With its straightforward ingredients and adaptable steps, this recipe helps build confidence in the kitchen. Plus, the final result is so impressive that it’s bound to boost your baking pride.
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls: A Treat Everyone Will Love
These rolls make a great gift, whether you’re bringing something to a brunch, a baby shower, or even just surprising your neighbor. They also freeze well, making them a good option for batch baking or gifting during the holidays.
And because the banana flavor is subtle yet warm, they appeal to both banana bread lovers and those who might not usually gravitate toward banana-based desserts. Combined with the nostalgia of cinnamon rolls, it’s a flavor combo that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion:
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate hybrid comfort food perfectly balancing the moist, nostalgic flavor of banana bread with the gooey, spiced richness of a cinnamon roll. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a new weekend baking project, a showstopper brunch item, or a cozy treat to share, these rolls deliver on every level.
Their soft texture, enticing aroma, and creamy glaze make them unforgettable from the first bite. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a permanent favorite in your baking rotation.