Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the comforting flavors of banana bread with the gooey indulgence of cinnamon rolls. Soft, moist, and filled with a cinnamon-sugar swirl, these rolls are topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re a delicious twist on two beloved classics.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourripe bananasactive dry yeastwarm milkunsalted buttersugareggsaltground cinnamondark brownsugarvanilla extractcream cheesepowdered sugar

directions

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas, then add sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.

Add the yeast mixture to the banana mixture and stir to combine.

Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle.

Spread softened butter over the surface, then sprinkle with a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon.

Tightly roll the dough from one long end to the other, then slice into 12 even rolls.

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown.

While the rolls bake, prepare the glaze by mixing softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a little milk until smooth.

Drizzle the glaze over warm rolls before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 cinnamon rolls.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: about 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the filling for extra texture.
Use maple extract in the glaze for a warm, cozy twist.
Top with sliced bananas or a caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.
Swap cream cheese glaze with a simple vanilla icing for a lighter topping.

storage/reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To reheat, microwave individual rolls for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes.
Freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before glazing.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, just mix it directly with the dry ingredients without blooming in warm milk.

Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute up to half the flour with whole wheat for a denser, heartier texture.

Do the bananas need to be overripe?
Yes, overripe bananas are best for flavor and moisture.

Can I make these rolls the night before?
Yes, prepare the rolls and refrigerate before the second rise. Let them come to room temperature before baking.

Is the glaze necessary?
No, but it adds sweetness and richness that pairs well with the rolls.

Can I add extra bananas to the filling?
Too much moisture in the filling can make the rolls soggy—stick to banana in the dough.

What if my dough is too sticky?
Add flour a tablespoon at a time while kneading until it becomes manageable.

Can I make this without eggs?
Yes, substitute with a flax egg or egg replacer, though texture may vary slightly.

How do I keep the rolls soft?
Don’t overbake, and store in an airtight container.

Can I use a bread machine?
Yes, use it to knead and rise the dough before shaping and baking as usual.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious fusion of two comfort food favorites, bringing together the sweet, moist goodness of banana bread with the soft, swirled charm of cinnamon rolls. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated for a cozy treat, these rolls are bound to be a hit with family and friends.