Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking for a treat that combines the nostalgic comfort of banana bread with the gooey, cozy charm of cinnamon rolls, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls will absolutely sweep you off your feet! Imagine tender, banana-scented rolls with swirls of cinnamon sugar, all baked to golden perfection. This is not your average cinnamon roll recipe – it’s a banana bread dream with a sweet, spiced twist that deserves a spot at every brunch table and cozy breakfast gathering. Whether you’re baking for family or just want to spoil yourself, this delightful fusion is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised by how these easy-to-find ingredients come together in such a special way, each playing its part to make the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls irresistible. From overripe bananas for moisture and flavor, to warm cinnamon for that signature swirl, every item here is key to the magic.

• 3 ripe bananas (mashed): The riper, the better! They add natural sweetness, moisture, and a lovely banana flavor to the dough.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Keeps your rolls fluffy yet substantial, providing structure without being dense.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough, balancing the bananas and complementing the cinnamon swirl.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Ensures your rolls rise up tall and light, giving them a delicate crumb.
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon: The heart of any cinnamon roll, this brings aromatic warmth throughout.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and creates that tender chew in every bite.
• 3/4 cup whole milk (or almond milk): Brings everything together, helping the dough stay soft and perfectly textured.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add extra fluffiness to the dough.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth, highlighting the banana and cinnamon flavors.

How to Make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven

Let’s kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your favorite baking dish (a 9×13-inch works beautifully). This ensures your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls bake evenly and lift easily from the pan without sticking. A little prep now means you get perfect rolls later!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mash those spotty bananas until nice and smooth – they’re the secret to super moist rolls. Add your melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well blended. The mixture will smell heavenly already!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. This step ensures your cinnamon flavor is distributed evenly, setting the stage for those signature swirls. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently and just until combined. Stop as soon as you can – overmixing can make things tough, and we want pillowy-soft rolls!

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Dust your counter with a little flour, and turn out your dough. Using your hands or a rolling pin (a wine bottle works in a pinch!), gently roll the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. If it gets sticky, just sprinkle on a little more flour. This is where the magic starts to take shape.

Step 5: Add Cinnamon Sugar Filling

Spread a layer of softened butter right over the dough – it gives your rolls that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth bite. Next, sprinkle generously with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for that classic swirl. Don’t be shy! The more evenly you spread it, the prettier your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls will look inside.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

Starting at one long edge, roll your dough up into a snug log. Take it slowly so you don’t lose any filling. Use a sharp knife or piece of dental floss to cut the log into even pieces – aim for 10 to 12 rolls. Arrange them in your greased baking dish, giving them a little room since they’ll puff up as they bake.

Step 7: Let Rise and Bake

Allow your rolls to rise just a bit while your oven finishes preheating – a quick 10-minute rest does wonders. Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden and your kitchen smells like pure joy. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

For that extra wow factor, dust your warm rolls with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze. Sliced bananas or a walnut sprinkle make a stunning (and delicious) finish. These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls look gorgeous and taste even better when garnished with your favorite finishing touch!

Side Dishes

Pair the sweet, warm flavors of these rolls with sides like Greek yogurt, fresh mixed berries, or a light fruit salad to balance the richness. If you’re serving a brunch crowd, scrambled eggs or a veggie frittata add a savory touch that sings alongside the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls into a brunch centerpiece by stacking them on a cake stand and letting everyone pull apart their own. Or, serve in individual ramekins for charming, single-serve treats. For a fun twist, bake them in muffin tins for adorable cinnamon roll “muffins” perfect for gifting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for four days. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing to keep them soft and fresh.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Freeze your baked and fully cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. You can also freeze the unbaked, cut rolls; just let them thaw and rise before baking so they come out every bit as fluffy.

Reheating

To reheat, pop a roll in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or warm several in a 300°F (150°C) oven, covered with foil, for about 10 minutes. This brings back that just-baked softness and restores the cinnamon-sugar aroma we all love.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour for Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Just note the rolls may be slightly denser and have a nuttier flavor, which actually pairs beautifully with banana and cinnamon.

What’s the best way to mash bananas for the dough?

A fork works perfectly for mashing ripe bananas, but if you want things ultra-smooth, use a potato masher or even a hand mixer. Make sure your bananas are speckled and soft for optimum sweetness and moisture.

Can I make Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the milk for your favorite non-dairy alternative (like almond or oat milk), and use vegan butter. The rolls will still turn out irresistible and soft.

Do I need to let the dough rise for a long time?

Nope, the baking powder in this recipe gives the Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls a quick rise, so you only need a short rest—about ten minutes—before baking. That means you can satisfy your craving fast!

What can I use instead of eggs?

If you want to skip eggs, try using a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to thicken for a few minutes) for each egg needed. This keeps the rolls tender and holds everything together.

Final Thoughts

Baking these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls is like sharing a little slice of homemade happiness. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they disappear within minutes – they’re just that good. Go ahead, treat yourself and someone you love to a unique, joy-filled breakfast or brunch!

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