Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Heavenly Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

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The moment these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls emerge from the oven, my kitchen transforms into a sanctuary of comforting aromas – warm banana bread mingling with spicy cinnamon and buttery caramelized sugar. I created this recipe during a particularly rainy weekend when I found myself with both overripe bananas and a craving for something that combined nostalgic comfort with a touch of indulgence. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls brilliantly marry two beloved classics into something entirely new yet wonderfully familiar. What makes them truly special is their pillowy soft texture that creates perfect pockets to catch the flavorful cinnamon filling, while the natural sweetness of bananas adds moisture and reduces the need for excess sugar. Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that can be time-consuming and technically challenging, these come together without yeast and still deliver that satisfying, pull-apart quality we all crave. Keep reading to discover how these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls might just become your new favorite way to use up those spotted bananas sitting on your counter.

Why You’ll Love These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

If you’ve ever struggled with the dilemma of choosing between banana bread and cinnamon rolls for breakfast, or found yourself short on time but craving homemade pastries, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls solve multiple cooking challenges at once. Unlike traditional methods that require precise technique and long rising times, this recipe is wonderfully forgiving and can be ready for the oven in just 20 minutes.

I first served these rolls at a holiday brunch last year when I needed something special that could accommodate various dietary preferences. My grandmother was skeptical until she tasted it and declared it a worthy twist on her treasured banana bread recipe – coming from someone who rarely approves modifications to family classics, this was the highest praise possible! The look of surprise followed by delight on her face is something I’ll always treasure.

What makes these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls particularly versatile is how easily they adapt to what you have on hand. The base recipe works beautifully as written, but you can customize everything from the spice blend to the glaze flavor and mix-ins. I’ve made them with chocolate chips for my kids, added walnuts for texture, and even incorporated a cream cheese filling for extra decadence.

Whether you serve them warm from the oven for a weekend breakfast, prepare them in advance for a stress-free brunch, or enjoy them as a coffee-break treat, these rolls hit that perfect balance between effort and reward. Now, let’s dive into exactly what you’ll need to create these delightful spiral treasures.

Ingredients for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

For the Dough:

• 3 very ripe bananas (about 1½ cups mashed): The foundation of our Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, providing natural sweetness, moisture, and that distinctive banana flavor. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots – the more speckled, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll be.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough. For dairy-free versions, substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Balances the banana flavor without making the dough too sweet. Coconut sugar works wonderfully for a deeper caramel note.
• 1 large egg: Provides structure and richness. For vegan Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or ¼ cup applesauce.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile. Always use pure rather than imitation for the best results.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the dough. For gluten-free Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder: Our leavening agent that allows these rolls to rise without yeast, making them quicker to prepare than traditional cinnamon rolls.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the natural acidity in bananas to create a light texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors – don’t skip this!
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Adds warmth and complexity that complements both the banana and cinnamon components.

For the Filling:

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth quality we love in classic cinnamon rolls. Make sure it’s very soft but not melted for easy spreading.
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed: Provides the caramelized sweetness and slight molasses flavor that defines great cinnamon rolls. Dark brown sugar intensifies this effect.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: The signature spice in our Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls. Fresh, high-quality cinnamon makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and complexity to the filling.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances and balances the sweet filling.
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds delightful texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with banana bread. Toast them lightly first for enhanced flavor.

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar: Forms the sweet base of our glaze. Sift it first to ensure a smooth consistency.
• 2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the consistency of the glaze. Use any type of milk you prefer – plant-based works perfectly for dairy-free versions.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor without overwhelming the banana and cinnamon notes.
• Pinch of cinnamon: Ties the glaze back to the filling for flavor continuity throughout the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls.
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional): Adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness. For dairy-free versions, use vegan cream cheese.

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Creating these delightful Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:

Step 1: Prepare Your Space and Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make sure your bananas are properly ripened – they should be very soft with numerous brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
3. Allow refrigerated ingredients like butter and eggs to come to room temperature for easier mixing and better incorporation.

Step 2: Make the Banana Dough

1. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth but with a few small lumps remaining for authentic banana bread texture. You should have about 1½ cups of mashed banana.
2. Add the melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined. The mixture should be fairly smooth with a pleasant aroma of vanilla and banana.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg (if using).
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – stop when no dry flour pockets remain but the dough is still soft and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Create the Filling

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until you have a smooth, spreadable paste. The filling should be the consistency of soft cookie dough – easily spreadable but not runny.
2. If using nuts, have them chopped and ready to sprinkle over the filling.

Step 4: Shape the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

1. Generously flour a clean work surface and your hands.
2. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface. It will be softer and more delicate than yeasted dough.
3. Gently pat or roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12×15 inches. The dough should be about ¼-inch thick. Work carefully as this dough is more tender than traditional cinnamon roll dough.
4. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the filling mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a ½-inch border along one long edge.
5. If using nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the filling.
6. Starting from the long edge (not the one with the border), carefully roll the dough into a tight log. The texture creates perfect pockets to catch the flavorful ingredients as you roll.
7. For cleaner cuts, chill the log for 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator. This is optional but helpful if your kitchen is warm.
8. Using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 9 equal pieces, each about 1½ inches thick. You’ll know they’re the right size when they fit snugly but not tightly in your prepared pan.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Arrange the cut rolls in your prepared baking pan, allowing a little space between each roll for expansion.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center of a roll comes out clean. The aroma will transform your kitchen into something special – that magical combination of banana bread and cinnamon rolls.
3. If the rolls are browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
4. Allow the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare and Apply the Glaze

1. While the rolls are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. If using cream cheese, mix it in until completely smooth.
3. Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. For a drizzle, keep it thinner; for a frosting-like topping, keep it thicker.
4. Spoon or drizzle the glaze over the still-warm Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into the crevices.
5. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set slightly.

Delicious Variations of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

The beauty of these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls is their versatility. Here are some creative variations to keep this recipe exciting every time you make it:

1. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Rolls

Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the filling mixture and replace the vanilla glaze with a chocolate one by adding 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the powdered sugar. The melted chocolate creates delightful pockets of richness that contrast beautifully with the banana dough. This variation is particularly popular with children and chocolate lovers alike.

2. Tropical Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Add ⅓ cup finely chopped dried pineapple and ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes to the filling. After baking, glaze with a mixture of powdered sugar and coconut milk, then sprinkle with additional toasted coconut. The tropical flavors transport these rolls to vacation territory, making them perfect for summer brunches.

3. Spiced Pumpkin Banana Rolls

Replace ¼ cup of the mashed banana with pumpkin puree and add ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dough. In the fall, this creates a seasonal adaptation that combines two favorite quick breads in one delicious treat. Top with a maple cream cheese glaze for the ultimate autumn indulgence.

4. Streusel-Topped Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Before baking, top the rolls with a simple streusel made from ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and 3 tablespoons cold butter, cut into pieces and worked together until crumbly. This adds a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft rolls beneath.

5. Cream Cheese Stuffed Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Before rolling up the dough, spread a layer of sweetened cream cheese mixture (4 ounces cream cheese, 2 tablespoons sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla) over the cinnamon filling. This creates a decadent, cheesecake-like element that takes these rolls to dessert territory.

6. Whole Grain Morning Glory Banana Rolls

Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, then add ¼ cup shredded carrots, 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed, and 2 tablespoons raisins to the dough. In the filling, include ¼ cup chopped walnuts and 2 tablespoons finely chopped apple. This hearty, nutritious version makes a more substantial breakfast option with added fiber and nutrients.

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Heavenly Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Italian

Servings 9 crescent rolls

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls

Ingredients

  

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For the Dough:

• 3 very ripe bananas about 1½ cups mashed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg or flax egg for vegan version
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free 1:1 blend
• 2½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional

For the Filling:

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar packed
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or plant-based milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese optional

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare Your Space

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
• Ensure bananas are well-ripened for the best sweetness and flavor.

Step 2: Make the Dough

• Mash bananas in a bowl, then mix in melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla.
• In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg.
• Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet, stirring gently until just combined.

Step 3: Make the Filling

• Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt into a paste.

Step 4: Roll & Shape the Dough

• Lightly flour a work surface, roll dough into a 12×15-inch rectangle.
• Spread filling evenly, sprinkle nuts if using.
• Roll tightly from one long edge, chill for 10 minutes if needed.
• Slice into 9 pieces and arrange in prepared pan.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
• Let cool for 10 minutes before glazing.
• Step 6: Glaze & Serve
• Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon.
• Drizzle over warm rolls and enjoy!

Notes

• Chocolate Chip Version: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the filling.
• Tropical Style: Add pineapple & coconut to the filling and coconut milk to the glaze.
• Pumpkin Spice Twist: Replace ¼ cup banana with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice.
• Streusel Topping: Sprinkle a crumble topping before baking for extra texture.
• Make-Ahead Option: Refrigerate overnight before baking or freeze for later use.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSugar: 22g

Keyword Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, Banana Cinnamon Rolls, brunch ideas, comfort food, Easy Breakfast Recipes, Homemade Cinnamon Rolls, No-Yeast Cinnamon Rolls, Overripe Banana Recipes, Quick Baking

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Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Can I make these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You have several make-ahead options. Prepare the rolls up to the point of cutting and placing them in the baking pan, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Alternatively, you can fully bake the rolls, let them cool completely, then store unfrosted at room temperature for up to 2 days. Warm slightly before glazing and serving. For longer storage, freeze unglazed rolls for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes before glazing.

How do I store leftover Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?

Store glazed rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results when enjoying leftover rolls, microwave individual portions for 15-20 seconds to restore their soft texture. The warmth will also slightly melt the glaze, recreating that fresh-baked experience.

My dough seems too sticky to work with. What should I do?

The banana dough is naturally more moist and tender than traditional cinnamon roll dough. If it’s too sticky to handle, try these solutions: Chill the dough for 20-30 minutes to firm it up, use additional flour on your work surface and hands when rolling, or add an extra 2-4 tablespoons of flour to the dough if your bananas were exceptionally large or juicy. Remember that a slightly sticky dough will yield more tender rolls than a stiff dough.

Can I make these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls without refined sugar?

Yes! For a naturally sweetened version, replace the granulated sugar in the dough with ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup (reducing any liquid ingredients by 1 tablespoon to compensate). For the filling, use coconut sugar or date sugar in place of brown sugar. The glaze can be made with maple syrup reduced to a thick consistency or a simple puree of soaked dates thinned with a little milk.

How can I make these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls vegan?

To create vegan Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), use plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of dairy butter, and select your favorite plant milk for the glaze. These simple swaps maintain the texture and flavor while making the recipe completely plant-based.

Why did my rolls turn out dense instead of fluffy?

A few factors could cause density: overmixing the dough (mix just until ingredients are combined), using underripe bananas (they should be very soft and spotted), inactive leavening agents (check that your baking powder and soda are fresh), or overbaking (which can dry out the rolls). For lighter texture, make sure to measure flour correctly by spooning it into measuring cups rather than scooping, which can pack in too much flour.

Closing Thoughts on Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Last Christmas morning, as my family gathered around the breakfast table with steaming mugs of coffee and plates of these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, I watched as conversations slowed and eyes closed in momentary bliss with each bite. My uncle, who typically rushes through meals, lingered over his plate and asked thoughtfully about the recipe’s origins. It was in that moment I realized how food connects us – not just to each other, but to our memories and traditions.

These rolls represent what I love most about cooking: the beautiful balance between honoring traditional recipes and creating something new. By merging two beloved classics – the humble banana bread our grandmothers made to avoid waste and the special-occasion cinnamon rolls that signal celebration – we create something that carries forward the best of both while adding our own chapter to the story.

As you pull apart your own warm Banana Bread Cinnamon Roll, revealing the soft spirals of spiced filling, I hope you’ll feel that same connection – to tradition, to innovation, and to the simple joy of sharing something made with care. Perhaps you’ll add your own twist that becomes part of your family’s food narrative, or maybe you’ll discover a quiet moment of pleasure in a busy day.

The aroma of these rolls baking evokes a sense of home that transcends specific memories or places – it simply feels like where you want to be. And in a world that often moves too quickly, there’s something profoundly comforting about food that invites us to slow down, to savor, and to share. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls aren’t just a recipe – they’re an invitation to create your own moments of connection.