Looking for a unique twist on a breakfast classic? These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls bring together the moist, sweet flavor of banana bread with the soft, gooey texture of traditional cinnamon rolls. Finished with a rich cream cheese frosting, they are the ultimate indulgence for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat. Perfect for using up ripe bananas and a great way to impress guests or family!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Combines the comfort of banana bread with the classic charm of cinnamon rolls
- Perfect for meal prep or holiday mornings
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Ingredients Breakdown
Dough
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1 cup mashed ripe bananas – Adds natural sweetness and moisture with a subtle banana flavor.
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1/2 cup warm milk (110°F) – Activates the yeast and helps create a tender dough.
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1/4 cup melted butter – Enhances flavor and softens the dough.
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1/4 cup granulated sugar – Slightly sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
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1 large egg – Binds ingredients and contributes to a light, fluffy texture.
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet) – Leavens the dough for a soft, airy rise.
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1/2 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
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3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and elasticity; use extra for kneading if needed.
Filling
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1/2 cup brown sugar – Deep, molasses-like sweetness for classic cinnamon roll flavor.
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to complement the banana.
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1/4 cup softened butter – Helps the sugar-cinnamon mixture melt into the dough during baking.
Cream Cheese Frosting
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4 oz cream cheese, softened – Creamy, tangy base that balances the sweetness.
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2 tbsp butter, softened – Adds richness and smooth texture.
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3/4 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and creates a fluffy consistency.
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with a hint of warmth.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and banana flavor.
- Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking while handling the dough.
- Warm milk to exactly 110°F to properly activate the yeast.
Variations and Customizations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a nutty crunch.
- Include mini chocolate chips for extra decadence.
- Swap out the frosting for a maple glaze or vanilla icing.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or espresso
- Serve alongside fresh fruit salad
- Pair with a vanilla latte or chai tea for a cozy breakfast
Storage Instructions:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- To freeze: Wrap unfrosted rolls tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm, then frost before serving.
Popular Questions:
Can I make the dough the night before?
Yes! Prepare the dough, roll, slice, and place in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Let them rise at room temperature for 45 minutes before baking.
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Can I use instant yeast instead?
Absolutely. Skip the proofing step and add it directly to the flour. Proceed as directed.
What’s the best flour to use?
All-purpose flour works best. For a fluffier texture, you can substitute half with bread flour.
Print
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 2 hours (includes rising time)
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Description
cinnamon rolls swirled with ripe bananas, brown sugar, and warm spice—then topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze.
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Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and active dry yeast.
- Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough
- Add mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Mix well to combine.
- Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.
- Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl.
- Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Roll dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread with softened butter.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough.
5. Roll and Slice
- Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice into 12 even rolls.
- Arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Second Rise
- Cover and let the rolls rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
7. Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Make the Frosting
- Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
9. Frost and Serve
- Spread the frosting over warm rolls.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- This recipe is ideal for Sunday brunch, holiday breakfasts, or anytime you’re craving something special.
- Banana and cinnamon are both high-performing keywords for recipe search traffic and monetization.
- Customize the frosting with maple extract or a dusting of cinnamon for added flair.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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