Sweet and Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something magical about the fusion of two beloved classics,the soft, moist warmth of banana bread meeting the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls. This Sweet and Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls recipe takes breakfast indulgence to new heights. With ripe bananas adding natural moisture and sweetness, each swirl becomes tender, flavorful, and irresistibly aromatic. Perfect for cozy mornings, brunch gatherings, or when you simply crave a comforting homemade bake that feels like a hug in every bite.

Ingredients List

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 3/4 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)
• 1/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–7 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your rolls rise perfectly light and fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare the dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cinnamon. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, vanilla, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Make the filling

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well blended. This filling gives the rolls their signature gooey swirl.

Step 5: Shape the rolls

Once risen, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 12×16 inches. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a small border. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge and slice into 9–12 rolls.

Step 6: Second rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 7: Bake

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

Step 8: Make the glaze

Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy, then mix in vanilla, powdered sugar, and milk. Adjust consistency to your liking.

Step 9: Glaze and serve

Spread the warm glaze over slightly cooled rolls and let it melt into every swirl. Serve warm and enjoy the banana-cinnamon bliss!

Cook Time

• Preparation: 25 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 25–30 minutes
  Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Servings

Makes 9–12 cinnamon rolls depending on size preference.

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Sugar: 17g
• Fiber: 2g

Storage Instructions

Store cooled cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days and reheat before serving. They also freeze beautifully,wrap individually and store for up to 3 months.

Suggestions

• For a healthier version, use whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose flour.
• Add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the filling for a fun twist.
• For an extra banana boost, spread a thin layer of mashed banana before the cinnamon filling.
• Drizzle with salted caramel instead of glaze for a decadent dessert feel.

Seasonal Relevance

These banana bread cinnamon rolls are especially perfect for fall and winter mornings, when the air turns crisp and you crave warmth from your oven. The comforting aroma of cinnamon and bananas fills the kitchen, making it ideal for holiday brunches, Christmas mornings, or cozy weekend breakfasts year-round.

Conclusion

Sweet and Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls capture the heart of homemade comfort baking,fluffy, aromatic, and glazed to perfection. The subtle sweetness of banana paired with warm cinnamon transforms a simple dough into an irresistible delight. Whether you’re baking for family brunch or treating yourself, these rolls promise bakery-level satisfaction made right in your kitchen.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight after the first rise. Simply bring it to room temperature before rolling and shaping the next day.

Q2: Can I make these rolls vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cream cheese for the glaze.

Q3: Why are my cinnamon rolls dense instead of fluffy?
Dense rolls usually result from over-kneading or using inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and the dough is soft and slightly tacky for best results.