Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring comfort and warmth to any brunch table. With the sweet aroma of cinnamon and banana wafting through your kitchen, these rolls are perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekends. The unique twist of using fresh bananas in both the dough and the filling makes this recipe stand out. Plus, the option to prepare them in advance means you can enjoy stress-free mornings with a delicious treat waiting to be baked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it beginner-friendly.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls fit any occasion.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of banana, cinnamon, and cream cheese frosting creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the rolls a day in advance for an effortless baking experience.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These rolls are sure to impress family and friends with their unique taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking these banana bread cinnamon rolls, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and enhance your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even dough thickness for perfect rolls.
- Baking dish: A sturdy dish ensures even cooking and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
To make these tasty banana bread cinnamon rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk (lukewarm about 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 Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick, 57 g) unsalted butter (very soft)
- ½ cup (107 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 large bananas (thinly sliced)
Topping Ingredients
- ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream (slightly warmed for pouring on rolls before baking)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 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
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk with yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add melted butter, granulated sugar, mashed banana, and salt to the mixture. Stir well.
- Gradually add flour while mixing until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm area for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently.
- Roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick on a lightly floured surface.
Step 4: Add Filling
- Spread softened butter evenly over rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the buttered surface.
- Evenly distribute sliced bananas on top.
Step 5: Roll Up the Dough
- Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
- Pinch seams to seal it well.
Step 6: Slice and Arrange Rolls
- Cut the rolled dough into slices about 1–2 inches wide.
- Place them in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each roll.
Step 7: Final Rise
- Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise again for about 30 minutes until puffed.
Step 8: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour warmed heavy cream over the rolls before placing them in the oven.
- Bake for approximately 25–35 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 9: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 10: Serve with Frosting
- Once baked and slightly cooled, drizzle or spread cream cheese frosting over warm banana bread cinnamon rolls before serving! Enjoy this delightful treat!
How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Serving banana bread cinnamon rolls is all about enhancing their delicious flavors and textures. These soft, sweet rolls can be enjoyed in various ways that will delight your family and friends.
Classic Enjoyment
- Serve warm: Freshly baked rolls are best enjoyed warm, allowing the cream cheese frosting to melt slightly.
- Add fresh fruit: Accompany with sliced bananas or berries for a refreshing contrast.
Brunch Pairings
- Coffee or tea: A warm cup complements the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
- Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits makes a perfect side dish for brunch.
Sweet Treats
- Ice cream scoop: Top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist.
- Drizzle of caramel: A light drizzle adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

How to Perfect Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Perfecting banana bread cinnamon rolls requires attention to detail. With these tips, you’ll achieve the best results every time.
- Use ripe bananas: The sweeter and more flavorful your bananas, the better your rolls will taste.
- Knead the dough well: Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your rolls a soft and airy texture.
- Don’t skip the proofing: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key for fluffy rolls.
- Adjust baking time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your rolls to prevent overbaking.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Banana bread cinnamon rolls can shine even more when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
- Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- Greek yogurt: Creamy yogurt provides a tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Savory breakfast casserole: A hearty dish like a breakfast casserole can balance out the sweetness of the rolls nicely.
- Smoothie bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers both nutrition and flavor.
- Chia seed pudding: This healthy option pairs well with sweet treats while adding texture.
- Egg muffins: Savory egg muffins can add protein and round out your meal perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them.
- Incorrect yeast temperature: Using milk that is too hot or too cold can kill the yeast. Ensure your milk is lukewarm, around 120-130°F.
- Over-kneading the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
- Skipping the rise time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size.
- Ignoring the cream cheese frosting: The frosting is essential for flavor! Don’t skip it or settle for store-bought; homemade adds a special touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store banana bread cinnamon rolls in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm rolls for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 20-30 seconds. Add a splash of water to keep them moist.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat covered with a lid for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size and feel puffy. Pressing your finger into it should leave an indentation that doesn’t spring back immediately.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.
Can I make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them the night before and refrigerate them before baking. Just allow extra time for rising in the morning.
What other toppings can I add besides cream cheese frosting?
You could drizzle with melted chocolate, sprinkle chopped nuts, or even add caramel sauce for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine beloved flavors into a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. With their soft texture and sweet aroma, they are sure to please any crowd. Plus, feel free to customize them with nuts or chocolate chips to make them uniquely yours!
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls, a delightful blend of sweet bananas and aromatic cinnamon. Perfect for brunch or cozy family gatherings, these fluffy rolls are made with fresh bananas in both the dough and filling, offering a unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. With an easy make-ahead option, you can prepare them the night before and enjoy stress-free mornings with this delectable treat. Topped with creamy homemade frosting, these rolls are sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk (lukewarm about 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)
- 4 Tablespoons (1/2 stick, 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 for pouring on rolls before baking)
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix lukewarm milk and yeast; let sit until bubbly. Add melted butter, sugar, mashed bananas, and salt.
- Gradually incorporate flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
- Let rise in a greased bowl for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread with softened butter, and sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Add sliced bananas, roll tightly, slice into 1–2 inch pieces, and arrange in a baking dish.
- Allow to rise again for 30 minutes before pouring warmed cream over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–35 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (70g)
- Calories: 225
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg







