If you think banana bread and cinnamon rolls are irresistible on their own, wait until you try them together in the form of Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls! This delightful recipe combines the soft, moist texture of banana bread with the swirled sweetness of cinnamon rolls, creating a breakfast or snack that is nothing short of heavenly. Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked banana cinnamon goodness filling your kitchen – it’s pure bliss!
Did you know that this sweet treat is also incredibly easy to whip up? With minimal preparation time and ingredients you likely have on hand, Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect family-friendly dish for any occasion. If you love our classic banana bread recipe, you’re going to adore this twist! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor a unique and tasty experience!
What is Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?
So, what exactly are Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls? Picture fluffy, warm rolls swirled with cinnamon and banana goodness, and topped with cream cheese frosting! It sounds amazing, right? It’s like the food gods took the best parts of breakfast and merged them into one delightful creation. After all, isn’t it true that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? These rolls might just pave the way! Honestly, who wouldn’t want to indulge in a warm, sweet roll that’s a perfect mix of banana bread and cinnamon roll goodness? Give this recipe a try, and your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This
There are several reasons to love Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls!
- Sweet & Comforting Flavor: The warm spice of cinnamon perfectly complements the sweet banana flavor.
- Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples, these rolls are far more cost-effective than a bakery run.
- Creamy Frosting: The luscious cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch for this indulgent treat.
If you enjoy banana bread or classic cinnamon rolls, this recipe is the best of both worlds. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to browse our other breakfast favorites for more comforting ideas!
How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Quick Overview
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are incredibly simple to make yet bursting with flavor. With a prep and rise time of around 2 hours, you’ll enjoy soft, gooey rolls fresh from the oven, topped with smooth cream cheese icing. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana
- For the Filling:
- ½ cup softened unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- For the Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step
- Activate the Yeast
Warm the milk and sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. - Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Add yeast mixture and stir. Gradually add flour and mix until dough forms. Add mashed banana and knead until smooth. - First Rise
Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled. - Roll Out the Dough
Roll dough into a rectangle (about ¼ inch thick) on a floured surface. - Add the Filling
Spread softened butter evenly. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts if using. - Shape and Slice
Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces. - Second Rise
Place in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes. - Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden. - Make the Frosting
Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. - Frost and Serve
Let rolls cool slightly, then generously spread with cream cheese frosting.
What to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls With
These rolls are heavenly on their own, but they also pair well with:
- Fresh Fruit: Add a bowl of berries or sliced bananas to brighten the plate.
- Hot Beverages: Coffee, chai latte, or herbal tea complement the richness perfectly.
- Brunch Favorites: Try bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs to round out the meal.
Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch or a special breakfast, this combination is sure to impress.
Top Tips for Perfecting Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Use Overripe Bananas: For the best flavor and sweetness, ripe bananas are a must.
- Plan Ahead: Prepare the night before, refrigerate unbaked rolls, and bake fresh in the morning.
- Avoid Over-Browning: Check the rolls at the 20-minute mark and cover with foil if needed.
- Add Your Twist: Swap walnuts for pecans or stir in mini chocolate chips for an extra treat.
- Dough Too Sticky?: Add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until it’s easy to work with.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat when needed.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the rolls may turn out denser. A mix of whole wheat and all-purpose works best.
What can I use instead of eggs?
Unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water are great egg alternatives.
How do I know the rolls are done baking?
They should be golden brown and spring back when gently pressed.
Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Try diced apples or blueberries for a fruity variation.
What do I do with leftover frosting?
Store it in the fridge for up to a week. It’s great on pancakes or muffins too!
Conclusion
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are a dreamy fusion of two classic favorites that come together in the most delicious way. Whether you’re making them for a lazy Sunday morning or sharing them at a brunch gathering, these rolls are bound to be a hit. Easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfectly comforting, they’re a must-bake for anyone who loves homemade pastries. So preheat that oven and treat yourself to this sweet twist on a beloved classic—your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Dish
- Rolling Pin
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2.25 tsp active dry yeast
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana
Filling Ingredients
- 0.5 cup softened unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 0.5 cup chopped walnuts optional
Frosting Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar
- 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Warm the milk and sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, eggs, and salt. Add yeast mixture and stir. Gradually add flour and mix until dough forms. Add mashed banana and knead until smooth.
- Cover with a damp cloth and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled.
- Roll dough into a rectangle (about ¼ inch thick) on a floured surface.
- Spread softened butter evenly. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts if using.
- Roll up tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
- Place in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Let rolls cool slightly, then generously spread with cream cheese frosting.