Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect marriage of two beloved comfort foods: banana bread and cinnamon rolls. These rolls are made with a soft, yeasty dough enriched with ripe banana, creating a uniquely fluffy texture. Once baked, they’re filled with a sweet, spiced mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and banana slices. The finishing touch? A decadent cream cheese frosting that melts beautifully over the warm rolls, creating the ultimate brunch treat.
One morning, as the scent of freshly baked banana bread fills the kitchen, a thought strikes: Why not take this comfort food to the next level? The result is these irresistible banana bread cinnamon rolls. Imagine the familiar richness of banana bread wrapped in a soft, doughy swirl, with layers of cinnamon sugar and slices of banana. It’s a treat that speaks of warmth, indulgence, and nostalgia, yet feels completely fresh and new.
The dough itself is simple and forgiving. A few basic ingredients, combined with the sweetness of mashed banana, create a base that’s both fluffy and flavorful. As the dough rises, the anticipation builds, and the magic happens when it’s rolled out and filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and more banana slices. With each swirl, the cinnamon rolls take shape, their aroma tantalizingly sweet and spicy.
When the rolls are baked and golden brown, they’re ready for the final step: the cream cheese frosting. Spreading it on while the rolls are still warm allows the frosting to melt into the crevices, creating an irresistible, gooey finish. These banana bread cinnamon rolls are more than just a recipe; they’re a story of transformation, turning a simple loaf into an extraordinary treat that brings a sense of comfort and joy with every bite.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are an instant classic, combining the best elements of two all-time favorites. Here’s why they’re a must-try:
- Banana Bread Meets Cinnamon Rolls
This recipe merges the moist, comforting texture of banana bread with the soft, fluffy layers of a cinnamon roll. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth combination that’s both familiar and new. If you love banana bread and cinnamon rolls, this is the best of both worlds. - Moist and Flavorful
The dough is enriched with ripe banana, infusing each roll with that unmistakable, sweet banana flavor. The cinnamon-sugar filling, along with extra banana slices, enhances the sweetness and adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire roll. - Cream Cheese Frosting
The cream cheese frosting is the crowning glory of these rolls. It’s smooth, tangy, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness of the rolls, melting beautifully over them when spread while still warm. The contrast of flavors makes each bite irresistible. - Perfect for Brunch or Dessert
Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a comforting dessert, these rolls are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of the day. Their irresistible aroma alone will make your kitchen the most inviting place in the house. - Easy to Make Ahead
You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise overnight. The next morning, all you have to do is bake them. It’s a no-fuss recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. - Freezer-Friendly
If you’re someone who loves to plan ahead, these rolls freeze beautifully. Make them in bulk, freeze, and bake them whenever you need a quick, indulgent treat.
In short, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a deliciously comforting treat that combines two favorites into one unforgettable experience. The tender dough, flavorful filling, and creamy frosting will leave you craving more every time.
Unlock The Ultimate Comfort With These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including rising time)
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x
Description
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of two comfort food classics: banana bread and cinnamon rolls. The soft, yeasty dough is enriched with ripe bananas for added flavor and moisture, while the filling is a combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and fresh banana slices. Once baked, these rolls are topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts into the warm rolls, creating a decadent breakfast or brunch treat. This recipe is simple to make, and the rolls can be prepped the night before for an even easier morning!
Ingredients
Dough:
1 cup (240 ml) lukewarm milk (120-130°F)
6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
4 ½ – 5 cups (540 – 600 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
1½ teaspoons salt
½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
Filling and Assembly:
4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, very soft
½ cup (107 g) packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
2 large bananas, thinly sliced
¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream, slightly warmed
Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (170 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Make the Dough:
In a saucepan, warm the milk, butter, and sugar over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture reaches 120°F-130°F. Remove from heat.
In a stand mixer, combine 4 ½ cups of flour, yeast, and salt. Add the milk mixture and mashed banana. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Attach the dough hook to your stand mixer and knead at medium speed for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, gradually add flour a little at a time. Don’t use more than 5 cups of flour.
If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes.
Let the Dough Rise:
Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling:
Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface into an 18×12-inch rectangle.
Spread the softened butter over the dough. Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle over the butter. Layer the sliced bananas on top.
Shape the Rolls:
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seam to seal.
Using a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the roll into 12 equal pieces.
Let the Rolls Rise:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the rolls, spiral side up, in the dish. Cover with a clean towel.
Let the rolls rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they’re slightly puffy and nearly doubled in size.
Bake the Rolls:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Once the rolls have risen, pour the warmed heavy cream over them.
Bake the rolls for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Let the rolls cool for about 20 minutes in the pan before frosting.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, and beat until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
Frost the Rolls:
Spread the frosting on the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly for a gooey finish.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving in the microwave or oven.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the rolls the night before. After the first rise, roll out, fill, and cut the dough, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow the rolls to rise at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked rolls after cutting them. Place them in a freezer-safe pan, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and allow to rise before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 511 kcal
- Sugar: 37g
- Sodium: 337mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 78g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 53mg
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 cup (240 ml) lukewarm milk (120-130°F)
- 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 4 ½ – 5 cups (540 – 600 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
Filling and Assembly:
- 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, very soft
- ½ cup (107 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 large bananas, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream, slightly warmed
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Make the Dough for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:
- Begin by warming the milk, butter, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Heat until the butter melts and the mixture reaches 120°F-130°F. Remove from heat.
- In a stand mixer, combine 4 ½ cups of flour, yeast, and salt. Add the milk mixture and mashed banana. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Attach the dough hook to your stand mixer and knead the dough at medium speed for 6-8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, gradually add flour, but don’t exceed 5 cups of flour.
- If kneading by hand, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. Add flour as needed until the dough is slightly sticky but smooth.
- Let the Dough Rise for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:
- Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside, turning it once to coat. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:
- Roll the dough out onto a lightly floured surface into an 18×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving about a ½-inch border at the top long edge.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture over the butter, then layer the sliced bananas on top.
- Shape the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seam to seal.
- Use a serrated knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal pieces.
- Let the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Rise:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Place the rolls into the dish, spiral side up, and cover with a clean towel.
- Let the rolls rise in a warm, draft-free area for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they’re slightly puffy and nearly doubled in size.
- Bake the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Once the rolls have risen, pour the warmed heavy cream over them.
- Bake the rolls for 30-35 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow the rolls to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before frosting.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, half a cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla extract and beat on medium-high speed for another 1-2 minutes, until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Frost the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls:
- Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. The frosting will melt slightly, soaking into the rolls for an extra indulgent touch.
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Storage and Tips for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Storage:
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, with their rich cream cheese frosting, are best stored in the refrigerator. They can last up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Make-Ahead Option:
You can prepare the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls the night before. After the first rise, roll the dough out, spread the filling, and cut into rolls. Place them in your baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to rise at room temperature for 45 minutes to an hour, then bake as usual.
Freezing:
For long-term storage, these rolls can be frozen both before and after baking.
- Before Baking: After the first rise, roll, fill, and cut the rolls. Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let them thaw overnight in the fridge, then let them rise for about an hour at room temperature before baking.
- After Baking: Once baked and cooled, store the rolls in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Bread Maker Option:
While this recipe is designed for a stand mixer, you can use a bread maker to make the dough. Follow the bread maker’s instructions for making dough, and once it’s ready, proceed with the rolling, filling, and baking steps as directed.
Flour and Yeast Choices:
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which works perfectly for cinnamon rolls. Some recipes call for bread flour, but all-purpose flour creates a soft and tender texture in these rolls.
- Instant Yeast: Instant yeast is recommended for quicker rise times, but you can use active dry yeast in a 1-to-1 exchange. If using active dry yeast, be sure to heat the milk to a slightly lower temperature (105°F-110°F) to activate it.
Milk and Butter:
Whole milk and unsalted butter are ideal for making these rolls. Whole milk contributes to a tender roll with rich flavor, while unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt. If you’re using salted butter, reduce the amount of salt in the dough by ¼ teaspoon.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
For the cream cheese frosting, I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat cream cheese works too, but avoid using fat-free or whipped varieties, as they won’t give you the same creamy consistency.
By following these tips, you can ensure your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfect every time.
Serving Suggestions for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Classic Breakfast Treat:
Serve these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls warm with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas. The combination of the sweet, gooey rolls with the freshness of the fruit makes for a balanced and indulgent breakfast. - Pair with Coffee or Tea:
These rolls make an excellent companion to your morning coffee or a hot cup of tea. The richness of the cream cheese frosting complements the warmth and depth of your favorite brewed beverages, making them perfect for a leisurely morning. - Brunch Spread:
Include Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls as part of a larger brunch spread. Serve alongside other breakfast staples like scrambled eggs, bacon, or a fresh salad. Their sweet and cinnamon-spiced flavor works well in contrast to savory items. - Dessert Delight:
Serve these rolls as a decadent dessert. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce will elevate the experience, making them even more indulgent for an after-dinner treat. - Gift or Potluck Dish:
Because they freeze well, Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a great choice for gifting or bringing to a potluck. They’re easy to transport, and their sweet, aromatic appeal is sure to be a hit with guests. - Top with Nuts or Chocolate Chips:
For a little extra texture, sprinkle some chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips over the top before baking. These additions add a new flavor dimension and a satisfying crunch to the soft rolls. - With a Drizzle of Maple Syrup:
If you’re looking to add a little more sweetness, drizzle some warm maple syrup over the top of the rolls just before serving. The combination of the banana, cinnamon, and syrup creates a perfect blend of flavors. - Serve with a Scoop of Greek Yogurt:
For a light, tangy contrast, pair the rolls with a scoop of plain Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the rolls, providing a refreshing element to the rich dessert.
These serving suggestions will help you enjoy your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls in various ways, whether you’re treating yourself to a special breakfast or sharing them with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
1. What is the number one mistake made when making banana bread?
The most common mistake when making banana bread is overmixing the batter. Overmixing causes the bread to become dense and heavy. Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the texture light and moist.
2. How do you keep banana bread from getting soggy?
To prevent banana bread from getting soggy, make sure you don’t add too much liquid, and always allow the bread to cool completely before storing it. Additionally, ensure that the bananas you use are not overly ripe or watery.
3. How long can banana bread sit out?
Banana bread can sit out at room temperature for 1-2 days if covered properly. For longer storage, refrigerate it to extend freshness for up to 5 days. If you need to store it longer, freezing is a great option.
4. How do you know if bananas are too far gone for banana bread?
Bananas that are very overripe (black and mushy) are actually perfect for banana bread! However, if the bananas have mold, an off smell, or liquid seeping from the peel, they should be discarded, as these bananas are no longer safe to eat.
Conclusion
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful twist on classic banana bread, transforming it into a soft, cinnamon-swirled treat topped with rich cream cheese frosting. With a simple dough base infused with banana and a sweet, spiced filling, these rolls are a perfect combination of comfort and indulgence.
Whether you’re looking to impress at brunch, create a cozy morning treat, or share with loved ones, these rolls offer something for everyone. They’re easy to make ahead and freeze for later, and their versatility allows them to be served in various ways, from a light breakfast to a decadent dessert.
The next time you crave a banana bread-inspired treat, give these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls a try. They’re sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
For another delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite, try our Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups. These indulgent roll-ups are a perfect combination of soft cinnamon rolls and the rich, custardy texture of French toast, making for an irresistible treat that’s perfect for brunch or a special breakfast.