Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
When you can’t decide between banana bread and cinnamon rolls, why not enjoy both in one irresistible recipe? These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are pillowy-soft, swirled with cinnamon-sugar filling, and finished with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, giving the rolls a flavor that’s both familiar and new.
Perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or anytime you want to impress, these rolls are the definition of cozy indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique twist: Combines two beloved classics in one treat.
- Super soft & fluffy: Bananas keep the dough tender and moist.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep the night before, bake in the morning.
- Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Cinnamon Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin, if needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Let sit until foamy (5–10 minutes).
- Add mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, vanilla, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add flour, stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes (or 5 minutes in a stand mixer with dough hook) until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl to form a paste.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Punch down risen dough and roll into a 15×10-inch rectangle.
- Spread filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 even pieces.
- Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Spread glaze over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Use very ripe bananas: They add maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t overbake: Rolls should be golden on top but soft inside.
- Make ahead: Assemble rolls, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning.
- Extra indulgent: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for crunch.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Banana Rolls: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the cinnamon filling.
- Caramel Banana Rolls: Drizzle caramel sauce over baked rolls before glazing.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free milk, butter, and cream cheese.
- Mini Rolls: Slice dough smaller for bite-sized treats.
Why This Recipe Works
The natural sweetness and moisture from bananas make the dough soft, flavorful, and unique. The cinnamon-sugar swirl balances perfectly with the banana bread flavor, while the cream cheese glaze adds richness. It’s the best of two classics in every bite — nostalgic yet new.
✨ Soft, gooey, and full of cozy banana-cinnamon flavor, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate breakfast indulgence.
