Easy Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

For the Filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (or cream for richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the mashed bananas, milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook.)
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12x9 inches.
3. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the butter, and add nuts (if using).

3. Roll and Cut

1. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
2. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices.
3. Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking pan, leaving space between each roll for rising.

4. Let Rise Again

1. Cover the rolls with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for 30–45 minutes, or until puffy.

5. Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes , or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Make the Glaze or Frosting

1. For the glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency.
2. For cream cheese frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until creamy and spreadable.

7. Finish and Serve

1. Drizzle the glaze or spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the heavenly combination of banana bread and cinnamon rolls!

Tips for Success

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your dough will be.
• Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Allowing the rolls to rise again ensures they’re light and airy.
• Add Mix-Ins: Fold chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts into the filling for extra texture.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature and rise for 30 minutes before baking.
• Freeze Extras: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Why This Recipe Works

These Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls combine the moist, fruity flavor of banana bread with the warm, spiced sweetness of cinnamon rolls. The mashed bananas keep the dough tender and flavorful, while the cinnamon-sugar filling adds a comforting, gooey center. Whether glazed or frosted, these rolls are a crowd-pleasing treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Conclusion: A Match Made in Baking Heaven

Whether you’re craving something sweet for breakfast, looking for a show-stopping dessert, or simply want to try something new, these Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls are sure to satisfy. Their unique twist on two classic recipes makes them a standout dish that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, their customizable nature means you can tailor them to suit your taste or occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on these banana-infused cinnamon rolls might just inspire others to try them too! 🍌✨